At Tales of a Mountain Mama, we believe that the outdoors are for everyone. And we recognize, and celebrate, that outdoor mamas come in all shapes and sizes. But finding quality snow pants for curvy body types is really hard! If you identify as a woman and you’re looking for snow pants to fit a curvy body type, this post is for you.
This post is just for women but if you’re looking for kids winter gear recommendations be sure to check out our Best Winter Gear for Kids.
For more women’s winter gear tips, check out TMM’s Outdoor Women Winter Style Guide.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, if you purchase something through one of these links and use the discount codes provided, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
All products and brands recommended are hand selected by our team, so thank you for supporting us by clicking through!
Bib Snow Pants For Curvy Women
Attention curvy women: If you haven’t tried on a pair of bib snowpants, you really, really need to! And bibs in general tend to fit curvy women really well. We have tested lots of pairs and wrote an entire post about our favorites! Click here to read Adventure Overalls for Women.
Are you a pregnant snowboarding or skiing mama? Bibs with the front zipper unzipped also make great maternity snowpants.
Akova Legacy Bib
TMM Founder Amelia is wearing (and loving) the Akova Bib this winter. At first, she found them to be tight, heavy and restrictive. But after wearing them a couple of times they started to fit amazing well (kind of like jeans). Now, these are the ONLY bibs that she actually likes and she’s tried a ton!
The fabric is tough and durable yet amazingly stretchy. These are truly pants that the more you wear – the better they fit. Amelia is 5’2 and wearing the XL size. They are a bit long in regular shoes, but not an issue in ski boots.
The pants are insulated and super warm, but not overly hot. Amelia had the vents open on a 30 degree ski day.
The Akova Legacy bib is available in size XS-XL.
Valid for any order at full price (not including Outlet and Renewed items that are already heavily discounted).
Arctix Insulated Bib – Best Budget Pick
The Arctix Insulated Bibs come in several fun colors like purple and turquoise (which I was so happy to see – bye bye black!).
Full disclosure, we have not personally tried these pants. But several of our readers have, and they seem like a great affordable option. They also have 8,700 4.5 star reviews on Amazon, so I thought they should be included.
The Arctix bibs are available on Amazon in short, regular, and tall lengths, sizes XS – 4X.
Burton AK 2L Gore-Tex Kimmy Bib
You could say that the Burton AK Kimmy bibs are the official bibs of TMM curvy women because three of us are wearing them this year. Three women who all have unique, curvy shapes.
My whole adult life I’ve struggled to find great snow pants. Too tight. Too long. Dreaded gap above the butt. Not stretchy enough. Last year I splurged on these bibs and now I can never go back!
My personal favorite bibs are the Burton AK 2L Gore-Tex Kimmy Bib, in short length (I am 5’3″ tall).
The stretchy, adjustable suspenders, side zips and drop seat are sweet, too – you don’t have to take your jacket off to go to the bathroom.
I am not even joking when I say that I tried them on in my living room and immediately called three girlfriends to tell them how amazing they fit! I love these bibs because they fit my booty, they are stretchy, and the short length is perfect for my 5’3″ inseam.
TMM Team Member Sarah
The Burton AK 2L Kimmy Bibs are available in short, regular and tall lengths, in sizes XXS-XXL.
Burton Avalon 2L Bib
I like these bibs so much I have them in two different colors! I snowboard in some very cold and snowy conditions (in Jackson, Wyoming) and these bibs have always kept me warm and dry. I think these are the best bibs in this price range.
I am 5’3 and the short length (with a 30.5″ inseam) fits me perfectly. These bibs are stretchy enough and hug my curves – but they aren’t too snug. I don’t like to feel too bulky so I opt for thin wool layers and I stay nice and warm in these bibs.
These bibs are way more comfortable than regular snowboarding pants and I never worry about getting snow down my backside. With the zipper dropseat, bathroom breaks are just as easy too!
TMM Member Sarah
The Burton Avalon Bibs come in short, regular and tall lengths, in sizes XXS-XXL.
Burton Reserve Stretch 2L Bib
Our favorite features of the Burton Reserve bibs are how incredibly waterproof they are, all the pockets, and the front zipper. The team member who tested these bibs is breastfeeding and the front zipper made feedings super easy!
The material is pretty thin and these run a little small, so if you live in a very cold climate where you will be layering up, you may want to order a size up.
These bibs were great for skiing in my back yard and they held up to multiple falls. They are also SO waterproof. The only downfall is they fit a little snug. When wearing multiple layers, it’s tricky to zipper up the mid-because of how tight it fits.
TMM Member Anna
The Burton Reserve 2L Bibs are available in sizes XXS-XXL.
Outdoor Research Women’s Plus Carbide Bib
The OR Women’s Carbide bibs won Ski Magazine’s Gear of the Year award in 2023, but if that’s not enough to convince you of how awesome these are, take our friend’s word for it!
I literally cried happy tears when I got these bibs! I’ve never had ski bibs with all of the features plus a great fit. The options are just so limited for big and tall women. I bought their bibs, coat and thermals and I love them all. They are stretchy, roomy, have great pockets and fit great!
TMM Community Member and Friend
The OR Women’s Carbide Bibs are available in size XS-4X.
REI Co-op First Chair GTX Bib
The REI First Chair Bibs are a TMM favorite for winter 2023-2024! Both Sarah and Amelia are wearing these (and loving them!). These shell bibs are ultra waterproof, windproof and breathable thanks to Gore-Tex.
These pants just feel great. They are stretchy, lightweight without feeling thin, and the front panel comes up over the abdomen and rests under the breast area. At 5’3, I also appreciate that these pants come in lengths (I am wearing size large, petite length).
The only issue I have run into is sometimes the size zips don’t stay zipped up, especially when sitting down like on a chairlift. There is a snap at the top of the zipper, but it doesn’t seem to prevent unzipping entirely. It’s only happened a few times, so it has not been a huge problem.
These bibs run true to size with a relaxed fit (but not baggy). REI Co-op First Chair Bibs are available in sizes XS-3X and petite lengths.
Stio Women’s Environ Bib
These bibs are so comfortable. The front of the bib is a stretchy panel that sits just below the breastline. The back panel is that same stretchy panel for full range of motion. The pants have side zips for ventilation.
These bibs come in lengths. at 5’3 I always order snow pants in short, but the regular length in the Environ Bibs has a 31.5″ inseam so this length actually works for me; the short would be too short.
These bibs are really comfortable and have a more regular fit. Not slim, but not too baggy either. Perfect for layering underneath without feeling bulky. I can tell these are going to be fantastic on super cold, snowy days on the hill this winter.
TMM Team Member Sarah
The Stio Women’s Environ Bib is available in regular and short lengths in sizes XS-XL. Runs true to size.
Snow Pants for Curvy Women
Helly Hansen Switch Pant
The Helly Hansen Switch pants are an insulated and waterproof cargo pant. These are flattering on many different body types. They are loose fitting without being baggy and have great side pockets.
These do have a low rise waist, which is not my favorite waist style.
These pants are available in sizes XS-XL.
Obermeyer Malta Pant
The Obermeyer Malta Pant is another favorite among our team, and our readers. It’s like the younger sibling of the Straight Line Pant, and it’s priced slightly lower. The 4-way stretch will hug your curves and the high-back waistband means no gap! I hate that gap…
These pants are available in short, regular, and long lengths, in sizes 0 – 22.
Obermeyer Straight Line Pant
Obermeyer offers several different snowpant options in short lengths and a wide range of sizes. The Obermeyer Straight Line Pant is a TMM favorite! Both Ginny an Amelia will tell you that these truly are some of the best snow pants for curvy women.
The pants feature a 4-way stretch that perfectly fits the hips and booty. This pant is lightly insulated.
Obermeyer offers lengths in their snow pants, which is AMAZING for me. Pants and I rarely get along. I call my thick thighs my “german curse” and struggle to find ones I love wearing. Snow pants are a whole new level. These fit perfectly and are very comfortable. Plus they have 4-way stretch which, again, means you can move and groove (and keep up with your kids) on the mountain. I also love the waist adjustment which means a perfect fit and no slipping or gap.
TMM Team Member Amelia
These pants are available in regular and short lengths, in sizes from 2-16.
Stio Women’s Environ Pant
I was pleasantly surprised at how well the Stio Women’s Environ pant fit me – and it even comes in short lengths. The waistband is not too loose – so I don’t have the dreaded gap – but it does come with a cute belt to cinch things down if needed.
The pants are incredible waterproof and breathable (not insulated). These are a technical 3L fully taped shell. They have a very durable, rugged feel but a generous fit. The thighs are roomy without being too baggy.
As a snowboarder, the only thing I don’t love is that the leg vents are on the outside – which means you can’t unzip them or you will get blasted with snow. Usually pants designed for snowboarders have inner-thigh vents. But this is a minor thing – I still highly recommend these pants!
These pants come in regular and short lengths, in sizes XS-XL.
The Bottom Line
Finding great snowpants that fit a curvy body shape is a challenge (take it from someone who has been wearing ill-fitting pants for way too long). But I’m confident that one of these options could be your new, favorite pants.
Still not convinced?
Think about all those hours spent hauling kids up the sledding hill, or bent over while teaching your toddler to ski, and then treat yourself to a properly fitting pair of pants (or add them to your Christmas list!).
Related Articles
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- Outdoor Women Winter Style Guide
- The Best Pants For Your Outdoor Life
- Title Nine Swimsuits For Moms
- Best Bras for Active Women
- Favorite Gear to Straddle The Seasons For Women
- Best Winter Gear for Kids
The Best Snow Pants for Curvy Women
© 2024 Tales of a Mountain Mama. All rights reserved. Republication, in part or entirety, requires a link back to this original post and permission from the author.
“At Tales of a Mountain Mama, we believe that the outdoors are for everyone. And we recognize, and celebrate, that outdoor mamas come in all shapes and sizes. But finding quality snow pants for curvy body types is really hard! If you’re a curvy mama looking for snow pants, this post is for you.”
It should say, “If you’re a curvy mama, WITH HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS TO SPEND ON A SINGLE PAIR OF PANTS, this post is for you.”
“The outdoors are for everyone…” and, if you are curvy and not wealthy, you’ll have to find some other way to enjoy it, because this post is not for you.
Hi Amy. The outdoors should definitely be for everyone, and winter is definitely the season that it’s hardest to make it accessible due to fit and cost of gear. Hundreds of dollars on pants seems like so much (and you’re right $100 is a lot of money)… but you only need ONE pair, and they’ll last you for a decade or more. Buying used is an excellent way to find good deals, there are BST groups on facebook, checking Marketplace, and even retailers have used parts of their sites now! Both REI and Patagonia are pushing worn wear sites, which is awesome! So possibly you could look for some of these styles that way, knowing these will get you a fit you may like and then going second hand may help with the upfront cost. Shopping in the spring for winter gear is also a great choice, though I know that doesn’t help many of us here in November!
The outdoors SHOULD be accessible for everyone – Agreed! Unfortunately, good gear that will perform well and last a long time is not cheap. Just the nature of the industry – the struggle is real to find good deals! The cheap stuff tends to not have the durability or quality.
I saved up to trade my cheap (If you can call $75 cheap!) Columbia snow pants for a $300 pair of Arcteryx. I’m now on year 11 with my Arcteryx and they still look and perform brand new. So while expensive, it’s a long-term investment if you get a good pair.
Still – I know it’s hard to afford the cost of gear (and expensive lift tickets, ski equipment, etc). REI’s garage sale and Patagonia’s used gear marketplace are great to start. Definitely check Facebook groups and local ski swaps as well!
If you are looking for new – Obermeyer tends to be more affordable than Helly Hansen or NILS. Burton does make a few budget options, and Columbia also makes more budget-friendly styles that are worth a look (that’s what I used for a long time!) The difference is usually in the quality of waterproofing, insulation, venting, and fabric density/treatment.
Amy – thanks for your response. We actually worked hard to make sure this post shows a wide range of pants to fit different budgets and different needs for quality, etc. While yes, great snow pants are an investment for sure, the Arctix pants, for example, cost less than $50. We will be adding to this post as we find other great options. Watch for sales too! Hopefully this just allows a great starting point to give you something to look for.
Amy,
I feel you mama, snow pants are expensive. I would highly encourage you to find a style that works for your body and then start searching for the pants used or an older season on sale. The higher end pants will last at least a decade of heavy use, given they are cared for properly. When looking at pants used, make sure to ask the seller how they have been washed. Too many times, I’ve forgotten that key question and realized the waterproofing has been ruined because they were put in a dryer. I’ve gotten many high end pants used on eBay for about $40. Such pants have lasted several seasons of hard wear. I make it a game to see how cheap I can find gear for next season during off months. Will you need to use the pants everyday? If so, a higher quality pair will last longer than the $40 (new) Arterix pants. Good luck! I hope we hear from you in the following weeks saying you nabbed a great deal on the perfect pair. Feel free to reach out to us personally if you need more help figuring out what works for you and your family budget.
Thank you sooooo much! This is sooooo helpful. I posted on Facebook to get you more exposure and saving to pinterest as well. Thank you again.
Yay! So glad you found it helpful and thank you so much for sharing!
Is it possible to find an 18/20 or 2x pant with a taller inseam? It is infuriating to constantly see the larger sizes are not available with the 32-34 inch inseams. I have searched for years! Please help!
Hi Megan! The Burton Women’s Avalon Bib comes in a 2X, long inseam (34.5″), but alas, it’s sold out 🙁 I did see that they make the Gloria Pant in a 2X, long inseam (34.5″)…and they have both the regular and a Gore-tex version of that pant. I personally love how the Burton pants fit and I totally recommend them. Best of luck in your search for awesome pants!!
How about a northern urban mom? Snow pants that you wear over long underwear or leggings are great, if you’re planning a couple hours of outdoor recreation with your kids. But what if you just need something for daycare drop off in heavy snow? Or any other errand? Or just take a short walk bc your kid hasn’t been outside in too long? I’m looking for snow pants that fit OVER my regular pants, like toddler snow pants do, that I can pull on for a 30-min outing and then pull of when I get home. Does this even exist?
Hi! Great question! A couple of suggestions…how about a pair of shell-type pants, sized up, for comfortable wearing over regular clothes. Or maybe even a soft-shell type pant that’s a little thinner and more comfy for wearing over pants.
This sounds like the answer I’m looking for! Except… I don’t entirely understand it. I recently moved to the tundra from Texas. Can you tell me what a shell-type pant is and where I can get it?
What a chance! Ok so a shell-type pant is more of just like the outer layer with no insulation in it. See the specific models in this post we recommend!
Love this! Literally the only place on the web with snow pants reviews for women with curves. I have a big butt and thighs with a smaller waist and wear a size 6-8 but even some size 14 ski pants wouldn’t even pull up over my hips….and if they do then the waist is way too big. So I have been DESPERATE to find something that fits just right. The bibs you love have been sold out forever which led me to purchase every other pair on the internet. The Arctix bibs were a great alternative but way too long if you’re curvy and short. After 11 pairs or pants/bibs I tried on Dope Snow “Con” pants. LIFE CHANGING. Can’t recommend them enough. Stretchy like yoga pants, adjustable waist and plenty warm.
Lizzy, we are SO glad you found an awesome pair of pants! I’ve never heard of that brand, will have to check them out and maybe add them to the blog as a great option. Cheers!
@Lizzy, What size did you get for your Dope Snowpants? I have been looking at them for a while now, and have the same measurements/issues as you!
Thank you so much for this! I’ve been in Leroy’s for hours trying on pants and them not fitting right with my new mom bod !
I’ve honestly been struggling – buying entire new gear is tough from jackets pants and boots
Thank you for this blog post. I put my ski pants on for the first time post two kiddos and cried. Now I have some options 🙂