If you’ve ever hit the slopes as a plus-size rider, you know the struggle all too well: scrolling through snowboard gear shops, only to find every pair of snow pants labeled “one size fits all” that’s basically made for someone half your size. They’re tight across the thighs, ride up when you bend your knees, and feel so restrictive you end up cut short on powder turns or stuck sitting in the lift line, adjusting them every five minutes. As someone who runs a snowboard pants supply business, I get it—we don’t make gear that forces anyone to skip their best runs, so I’ve spent years digging through brands that actually do right by plus-size riders, with fits that work, performance that holds up, and styles that don’t feel like an afterthought. Let’s break down the good ones, the ones to skip, and what to look for when you’re shopping for next season’s pants. Snowboard Pant
First, let’s get one thing straight: plus-size snowboard pants aren’t just “bigger versions of regular pants.” A great pair needs to account for extra width in the thighs, hips, and seat, but also enough stretch in the knees and waist for those deep carves and butt slides on powder. A lot of brands treat plus sizes as an afterthought—they’ll throw a size 20 on a pair that still has a 30-inch inseam that rides up, or skimp on insulation so the large size is way bulkier than the medium. But some brands have built their lines from the ground up to include sizes that actually work, no compromises on performance.
Let’s start with the most reliable ones I’ve worked with as a supplier. First up, Burton. If you’ve been snowboarding for more than five minutes, you’ve heard of Burton—they’ve been around forever, and their plus-size line (they call it Plus Collection) is solid. I’ve stocked their Covert Plus Pants and their AK Kimmy Plus Bibs, and the feedback from my riders is nonstop about how they fit. The waist has an adjustable snap closure, so you don’t have a gap when you’re wearing a thick base layer, and the thigh room is generous without looking baggy. The insulation is 100g ThermaLite, which keeps you warm on cold days without adding bulk, and they have critical seam sealing so you don’t end up with wet socks after a powder day. The bibs are game-changers for plus-size riders too—no more pulling pants up when you’re hiking to the backcountry, and the high waist keeps snow out even when you’re falling backward. I will say, their sizing runs a little true to street size, so if you’re a size 16 street, go with a Burton 16 Plus—no need to size up unless you want extra room for layers.
Next up, Volcom. Their plus-size line, Volcom Girlfriend (for women) and Volcom Mens Plus, is made for riders who want that classic street-style look without sacrificing performance. I’ve had a lot of skaters and casual park riders come in for their Species 5-Pocket Plus Pants, and they love the flexible waistband and the reinforced knee panels that hold up to hard landings. The 80g insulation is perfect for mild to mid-winter days, and they have a DWR (durable water repellent) coating that beads up snow instead of absorbing it. What’s cool about Volcom is they don’t just make their plus sizes as an afterthought—they design the fits so the proportions are right, so the legs aren’t too short or too long, and the hip room is built in from the start. A lot of brands cut corners on that, but Volcom gets it. I also love that their styles range from basic black to fun patterns, so you don’t have to wear the same boring pants as everyone else on the mountain.
For men, hold up—there are a lot of great options beyond Burton. Oakley has a solid plus-size line, especially their TNP Plus Shell Pants. I stocked these last season, and the guys came back saying they’re perfect for big guys who need extra waist and thigh room without feeling like they’re wearing a tent. The shell is 2L Gore-Tex, which is basically waterproof and breathable enough for any condition—you can ride in a blizzard and stay dry, no sweat. The adjustable cuff straps work with boots of all sizes, and they have zippered handwarmer pockets that are actually big enough to fit a glove, not just your fingers. If you ride in super cold climates, Oakley’s 120g insulation keeps you warm down to 20 degrees, which is way warmer than a lot of plus-size pants on the market. The only thing to note is Oakley’s sizing runs a little on the generous side, so if you’re between sizes, size down— I’ve had a few guys swap a medium for a large because they sized up by mistake.
Wait, let’s not forget about smaller, niche brands that actually cater specifically to plus-size snowboarders. One I’ve worked with lately is 686. Their Smarty 3-in-1 Plus Pants are hands down one of my best-selling plus-size items this year. The 3-in-1 system means you can wear the outer shell alone on mild days, or zip in the inner liner for super cold days—perfect for riders who want versatility. The liner is fleece, so it’s soft and warm, and the shell has a brushed inner so it doesn’t rub against your legs. The fit is called “Relaxed Plus,” which is exactly what it sounds like—roomy but not baggy, with a waist that fits a 38-inch waist or higher, which a lot of brands skip. I’ve had riders from sizes 14 to 28 come in for these, and every single one says they finally don’t feel restricted when they do a 180 in the park or hike up a steep section. 686 also has great seam sealing, so no more snow getting in at the ankles, and the pockets are all reinforced so they don’t tear when you stuff a phone, wallet, and snacks in them. That’s a big one for plus-size riders—pockets that actually fit stuff, not just a pair of tweezers.
Now, let’s talk about the brands to watch out for, because not all “plus-size” lines are created equal. I’ve had riders come in with pants from brands that label a 1X as plus size, but when you try them on, they fit like a medium. It’s frustrating, and I get why people give up on finding good gear. A lot of fast fashion brands and even some big sportswear chains use “plus size” as a marketing buzzword, not a real design category. They’ll take their regular size medium, stretch it a little, and call it plus size, which doesn’t work for riders who need extra hip and thigh room. Also, watch out for pants that have super thin insulation or no waterproofing—those are basically regular sweatpants with a fancy logo, and you’ll be soaked after the first powdery run. I’d also skip any pants that have a fixed waist with no adjustment—if you’re riding with a thick base layer, you’ll end up with a gap that lets snow in, or the waist will be too tight.
So, what should you actually look for when you’re shopping for plus-size snowboard pants? Let’s make this practical, since I know how overwhelming it can be. First, check the inseam and waist measurements. Don’t just go by the size label—every brand fits differently. For example, Burton’s 16 Plus has a 32-inch inseam, while Volcom’s 16 has a 31-inch, so measure your inseam before you buy. Second, look for adjustable waistbands and cuffs. If you have a thick base layer or wear a lift ticket around your waist, an adjustable snap or velcro will make all the difference. Cuffs that cinch or have Velcro at the bottom will keep snow out, especially if you have bigger boots. Third, prioritize stretch or flexible fabric. Snowboarding is all about movement, and stiff fabric will rub or restrict you. Brands like Burton, Volcom, and 686 use stretch materials in key areas like the knees and thighs, which is a must. Fourth, don’t skimp on waterproofing and insulation. Look for at least 8,000mm waterproofing (that means it won’t leak) and insulation between 80g and 120g, depending on where you ride. If you ride in places that are always below freezing, go for 120g, and if you’re in a mild mountain town, 80g is enough.
As a snowboard pants supplier, I’ve seen how much of a difference a good pair of pants makes for a plus-size rider. I’ve had riders tell me they stopped going to the slopes because their old pants were so uncomfortable, and now they ride three times a season after switching to the right pair. That’s why I make it my job to stock brands that actually do the work, not just jump on the plus-size bandwagon. If you’re a shop owner looking to stock plus-size snow pants, or a rider ready to upgrade your gear, I want to connect. We work with all the brands I mentioned, and we can help you find the exact fit you need, no more guessing if the size will work or if the performance is up to par.
Snowboarding is for everyone, no matter your size, and that starts with gear that fits you right. No more pulling up pants every run, no more wet socks, no more sitting out on your best tricks because your pants are too tight. We’ve got you covered, and we’re ready to help you get on the slopes this season.
Ski Pants References:
- Burton Snowboards. Plus Collection Product Line Overview. 2024.
- Volcom. Women’s and Men’s Plus Size Snow Apparel Fit Guide. 2023.
- Oakley. TNP Plus Shell Pants Performance Specifications. 2024.
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- Smarty 3-in-1 Pants Technical Design Report. 2023.
Onroad Sportswear Co., Ltd.
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