One of the most common questions friends ask is “What snowpants should I buy?” Snowpants are such an important part of keeping kids dry and warm when they play outside in the cold and snow. Our team has rounded up (what we think) are some of the best kids snow pants.
Snow pants and bibs all have a common goal of keeping kids warm and dry in the cold, (sometimes wet) snowy conditions. In general, a higher price tag will get you more quality components, you will find more efficient insulation (less thick but good at retaining heat) and a more waterproof outer. Most of the brands we reviewed also offer a grow-with-you seam. The lower priced bottoms usually have it on the cuff (not insulated) and the higher priced ones often put it on the pant leg itself.
Daily Snow Pants/Bibs: These are great for outdoor play at home and school. Look for features like reinforced knees, snow cuffs to keep the snow out of boots, and an easy zipper for quick on/off at school or home. Most of these will be just fine for a day on the slopes especially for younger kids.
Ski & Snowboarding Pants or Bibs : These have specialized features like reinforced panels between ankles, grippy material inside the snow cuff to keep them in place over boots, more waterproof for longer days in the snow. Pockets are usually waterproof and more secure pockets for lift passes, etc. The insulation tends to be thinner yet still efficient at holding in the heat. The average price point is higher.
You can definitely wear either type of snow pants or bibs for daily use or a day on the slopes. Find what works best for your family. The TMM team has kids in all of these snow pants and we recommend them all.
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Parent Tip: Grab a “cheap” pair of snow pants or bibs to send to school and keep the “good ones” for at home play and days on the slopes. This helps keep the good pair in good shape longer, especially if you want to pass them down. TMM Team Member Jami likes to grab the ones at Costco, Artix on Amazon, or Target’s Cat and Jack – all can be found for good deals throughout the year. I also grab school snow pants from local thrift stores and buy/sell groups.
Best Kids Snow Pants and Bibs
All of these snow pants below are favorites on the TMM Team and are ones that our team uses every winter. We hope you can find a great pair to fit your kids needs. For more of our favorite winter gear recommendations, make sure to check out Best Winter Gear for Kids and Best Winter Boots for Kids.
AKOVA Kids’ Elevated Bib/Pant 2.0
Akova makes top of the line snow gear for kids and adults for skiing and riding. These bibs include all of the features to make them great on the slopes: waterproof zipper pockets, grippy snow cuffs, reinforced abrasion panels between the ankles. The bib top also zips off to change them from bibs to pants.
Akova redesigned these recently and the feedback from the TMM team is positive. A change in material, slightly shorter fit and more adjustment in the cuff (to reduce drag so kids step on them less) were all appreciated by TMM kids. The Elevated Bib/Pant 2.0 were also a top choice in Best Winter Gear for Kids.
Looking for more info? Check out our full post on Akova gear!
My kids (who have not been as crazy about these for years) give them a big thumbs-up!
Amelia, TMM Founder
Fit Notes
- Adjust-a-fit legs to shorten as needed, these are velcro strips on the inside so you can extend AND shorten!
- A bigger range of adjustment at the cuff leads to less drag than in the past.
Specs
- Sizes: 4-16
- Insulation: 60 grams
- MSRP Pricing: $190
- Where to Buy: Akova Gear
Helly Hansen Rider 2 Insulated Snow Bib
Helly Hansen is not new to the outdoor apparel world but the kids line is now far more available. I have now seen the snow bibs in three local outdoor retailers in the past weeks. The colors combos are fun and the materials feel durable yet pliable.
The Rider 2 Snow Bibs come in a huge size range especially directly from Helly Hansen. They are ready for the ski slopes with a reinforced hem, inner ankles and knees. The lack of any pockets may be disappointing especially as kids get older.
Fit Notes
- Instead of a zipper on the chest, there are stretch panels. That may make getting these on harder for some.
- Grow seam on the legs will extend the life.
Specs
- Sizes: 1-12
- Insulation: PrimaLoft Black Eco (recycled material)
- MSRP Pricing: $125
- Where to Buy: Helly Hansen, Amazon for the most size options
Hootie Hoo Pinnakle Insulated Snow Bibs
Hootie Hoo makes outdoor gear specifically designed for active kids. Based in Vermont, it was founded by a mom who wanted to make kids gear to truly stand up to kids who are active in winter conditions. Recycled and PFAS free materials are used in Hootie Hoo’s snow bibs.
The Pinnakle Bib Snow Pants have 4-way stretch, sealed seamed, and have great features for the slopes. I love the zippered pass pocket and snack pocket on the lower leg – it is an easy place for a kid to reach when taking a break. The internal boot gators with hook and loop closure makes getting ski boots on easier. There are several colors and a wide range of sizes so you can find a good option for your family that can be passed on between kids.
Fit Notes
- Reinforced knees, inner cuffs and back of the legs help these bibs hold up to hard use.
- Grow inseam adds 2” in length to the legs.
Specs
- Sizes: 4(110) – 14(160)
- Insulation: 80 grams Primaloft Silver Recycled Insulation
- MSRP Pricing: $165
- Where to Buy: Hootie Hoo
Jan & Jul Snow Overalls
My family tested Jan & Jul’s winter gear starting in 2023. It kept my kids super warm and dry and the snow overalls are still holding up for the 3rd winter. These snow bibs (overalls to Jan & Jul) are the thickest and warmest ones we have. They are good for really cold conditions and any time kids are less active. Check out our full review of Jan & Jul Snow Gear.
Jan & Jul makes reliable, warm snow gear for at a reasonable price. They are great for the playground, the backyard, and any less aerobic activity. The knees and hem are reinforced, they have good reflective strips and snow cuffs. The snow cuff are designed for snow boots though, not ski boots and we couldn’t pull them over downhill ski boots.
My family is on the third year with one of our Jan & Jul snow bibs. The knees may look a bit faded but they don’t soak through and are still a favorite to wear.
Fit Notes
- These have a longer fit. The 5T has a length that fits my kids even when they are in size 6 in other brands.
- The thicker insulation does change the ease of movement especially for younger kids.
Specs
- Sizes: 2T – 12/14 Y
- Insulation: 100% Recycled Polyester
- MSRP Pricing: $73.99
- Where to Buy: Jan & Jul
Kamik Winkie Insulated Bib Snow Pant
Kamik snow pants are a practical choice for daily snow play and occasional time on the slopes. The Winkie is a full bib with reinforced knees and hems. It is a cost effective pair of snow bibs that will keep kids dry and warm for outdoor play and the occasional skiing.
Kamik’s snow pant come in multiple colors and often patterns so it is easy to customize your kid’s winter look (and make it easier to find them on the ski slopes). While these don’t have zipper pockets, they still have a snow cuff and Velcro on the hem to adjust the tightness and length.
Fit Notes
- Reinforced knees, hems and seat improve the durability and keep kids drier longer.
- Grow cuffs extend the life.
- Kamik tends to run true to size to roomy.
Specs
Another solid Kamik choice is the Harper Suspender Convertible Bib. Similar features to the Winkie, just in a convertible bottom.
We have been using the Kamik Harper Bibs for the last two seasons and they are headed into season 4 on our second kid with some wear, but a NOSO patch on the worn knees has fixed them right up. They are warm and keep our kid dry on wet days.
TMM Team Member Jami
Obermeyer Kids Volt Snow Pants
The Obermeyer Volt is one of the snow pants/bibs I recommend the most to family and friends. My kids (both a boy and girl) have now had 4 sizes of these and each pair has been worn for 2-3 winters before being passed on to another family.
The Obermeyer Volt pants are durable and waterproof. The reinforced knees have held up and these bib style pants have kept kids dry. Kids are often on their knees in the snow as they build forts and sled. The are easy to move in and we used them skiing and for daily snow play.
Fit Notes
- These have a roomier fit. We can easily layer under them and even though my kids were petite, we could make these fit with hook and loop waist adjustment.
- Useful hip pocket, reinforced hem and inner ankle panels, and snow cuffs.
- I Grow system adds 2” in length.
- These are a thinner, yet efficient insulation.
Specs
- Sizes: Kids 1-8 *some sites list these as boys, Obermeyer considers these as for all genders
- Insulation: 80g polyester
- MSRP Pricing: $119
- Where to Buy: REI, Amazon, Obermeyer, Dick’s Sporting Goods
REI Timber Mountain Snow Pants
These are reliable snow bibs/pants from REI for snow play, school and skiing. The Cordura hem and inner ankles make these pants durable. Articulated knees, water-resistant zipper pockets, and a d-ring for attaching lift pass, make these solid bibs for the slopes. The DWR (durable water repellent coating) will make these good for most snow.
If sustainability is a feature you are looking for REI Co-op is a Climate Neutral Certified brand. Bluesign materials are used in the liner and the shell and these are produced in a Fair Trade Certified factory.
Fit Notes
- A grow seam on the snow cuff can extend the length.
- Velcro adjustments on the waist help customize the fit.
Specs
- Sizes: XXS(5) – XL(16/18) and Toddler Sizes 2T-4T
- Insulation: unlisted
- MSRP Pricing: $109
- Where to Buy: REI
Reima Alppi Ski Bib & Loikin Pants
Reima’s kids gear is loved by many TMM families. They are a Finnish company designing functional clothing that has a focus on helping keep all kids outside comfortably. They are using recycled and bluesign materials in many of their products. Reima snow pants and bibs all have a grow inseam that will add 6 cm in length when let out.
Reima offers a lot of options especially for snow pants with just suspenders. In general, as you pay more, you get a slightly more waterproof and durable fabric. There are enough options that every family can find a good combo of features for their needs. Read all about Reima ski gear and baby snowsuits.
Fit Notes
- Reima tends to run longer.
- These have a straight fit.
Specs
- Sizes: 2T – 14 Youth
- Insulation: recycled polyester
- MSRP Pricing: Ski Bibs $139.95, Ski Pants $99.95
- Where to Buy: Reima
Spyder Expedition Insulated Snow Pants
Our family got our first pair of Spyder snow pants last winter. They were sparkly and my daughter loved the color. While we didn’t have that much snow, the times she was in snow, it was very wet and she stayed absolutely dry. The wet snow didn’t even begin to soak into the pants and I was impressed.
Spyder focuses on waterproof, wind proof pants for skiing and riding across their product line. The reinforced hem and inner ankles is more extensive that on many brands. A zipper pocket makes it easy to secure a lift pass. We found these were great for home and skiing. They took too long to get on and adjust for school use.
Fit Notes
- Spyder snow pants tend to have a slim, true to size fit.
- Velcro shoulder attachments allow for some adjustment to the top. Elastic on the waist keeps the fit snug.
- A full fleece bib changes how you layer with these. Layers need to be a bit more snug and roomy layers like a fleece pullover may need to go over them. You may find the warmth of the fleece reduces the need for an extra layer.
- Small to Tall hem extends the length by 2”.
Specs
The North Face Freedom Insulated Bibs
Built for skiing, these snow bibs have reinforced cuffs and seat and secure zipper pockets. TMM contributor Mary kid’s wore these for school and skiing. They found that while they were thinner, that made them versatile for lots of conditions and activity levels as layers can be adjusted.
Fit Notes
- Good to Grow Seam adds length to pant, not just the snow cuffs
- These have a relaxed fit so there is room to layer underneath.
Specs
- Sizes: XS(6) – XXL(18/20), Toddler 2T-7
- Insulation: 200 grams 70% recycled polyester
- MSRP Pricing: $140
- Where to Buy: The North Face, Scheels
We got our boys North Face bibs last year – we’ve really liked them! They have held up through school and ski season, have the option to lengthen the legs, and perform well in wet snow.
Mary, TMM team member
Town Hall Outdoor Co Winter Bib
Town Hall Outdoor Co makes kid’s winter gear that is designed for skiing and riding. Reinforced hems and abrasion resistant inner ankles can really extend the life of a pair of snow pants and make it much easier to pass them on. The zipper pockets will keep ski pass, snacks and more secure.
The color options are fun and bold in these pants. The material is durable and waterproof. Town Hall’s kids wear is great when the snow is wet. I do wish they had a mostly black option so I could reliably pass them between kids. I know many families who stick to black snow pants so they can be passed on and will coordinate with almost any jacket.
Town Hall Outdoor Co’s products are unique in using 100% recycled materials in the shell, liner and insulation. While the price point is higher than most of the other snow pant options, they stand out for their strong commitment to sustainability.
Fit Notes
- Cuff grow system extends the length by 2 inches.
- The articulated knees are a unique feature in Town Hall Outdoor Co’s bibs and pants.
- The bib straps tighten with a unique one handed pull.
Specs
- Sizes: XS(5/6) – XL(13/14)
- Insulation: 100 gram 100% recycled polyester
- MSRP Pricing: $175
- Where to Buy: Town Hall Co
Conclusion
Good quality snow bibs are a worthwhile investment that can help make winter fun for your kids (and you when they are happy outside). Find a good fit for your family and have fun out there!
Don’t forget, clean gear performs best! Make sure you wash your outerwear every now and then to keep your kids dry. Hint: Don’t use your regular laundry detergent. Check out How to Clean Your Outdoor Gear for tips on keeping all your outdoor gear in top shape.
Related Articles
- Gifts for a Skiing Family
- Best Winter Gear for Kids
- Jan and Jul Snow Gear Review
- Best Winter Boots for Kids
- Outdoor Winter Fun Gifts
Best Kids Snowpants and Bibs
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We have had Reima, HH, and Shred Dog (Akova) snow pants per your recommendations. All have kept my kids warm. Prefer HH and Shred Dog for keeping kids dry.