PATAGONIA POWDER BOWL SKI PANTS REVIEW

Patagonia Powder Bowl ski pants £270 www.eu.patagonia.com
The classic ski pants from Patagonia, the Powder Bowl has been cleverly designed to appeal to just about every kind of rider out there. And they’re eco-friendly too, of course, featuring a 100% recycled polyester GORE-TEX face fabric, which is tough and well as waterproof/breathable and windproof, whilst a DWR finish helps to shed snow and water.
On the inside you get just the right amount of insulation to keep you warm but without overheating (and there are external mesh-lined thigh vents for when it does heat up) – a combination of brushed mesh and polyester taffeta line the seat, upper thighs and down the legs to regulate your temperature as well as manage moisture and glide smoothly over underlayers.
Comfort is second to none – a fairly loose fit and articulated knees provide excellent mobility, whilst bulk is kept to a minimum through the use of watertight slim zips. The Powder Bowl fits securely around your waist thanks to a combination of internal Velcro waist adjusters, a rugged two-snapper closure and large belt loops should you wish to use a belt, and a webbing loop on the rear yoke allows you to attach the pants to the powder skirt of any Patagonia ski jacket.
Below this are just the right number of pockets, all zippered and with protective flaps – one rear pocket, two handwarmers and a cargo pocket provide plenty of room for all your bits and pieces. The whole lot is finished off with rugged scuff guards and snow gaiters along with a Recco reflector – the only very minor criticism we might have is that the hems and gaiters are not adjustable, but other than that the Powder Bowl is absolutely top notch – one of our favourite bits of kit for this season, in fact.