Advnture Verdict
Our pick of the pack when it comes to value for money is Mountain Warehouse’s slim-cut but stretchy ski salopettes, which also boasts a RECCO safety reflector.
Pros
- +
Comfy, flexible fit
- +
RECCO reflector
- +
Great looks
Cons
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Not waterproof
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Not everyone will like this skinny fit
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Front pockets are small and awkward
You can trust Advnture
Mountain Warehouse Avalanche: first impressions
The Mountain Warehouse Avalanche is one of our top recommendations in our best women’s ski pants buying guide for anyone who’s buying their kit with an eye on their budget.
The slimmer design of the pants will suit skiers looking for a streamlined fit, and some thoughtful design has gone into the Avalanche, which is stretchy and forgiving to wear, with a great snug high waist lined with soft fleece for extra warmth.
• RRP: £140 (UK)
• Waterproofing: Water repellent, not waterproof
• Insulation: Thermal lining
• Sizes: XXS / XS / S / M / L / XL / XXL
• Colors: Navy / Black
• Compatibility: Affordable and comfortable choice for beginner to intermediate skiers
Mountain Warehouse Avalanche: on the slopes
The Avalanche is true to size and fits well over base layers, with a flattering, almost legging-like look – ideal if you don’t like bulky or baggy snow sports kit, although anyone with wider calves may need to size up.
Extra features include a RECCO reflector (a battery-free transponder which makes you searchable to professional mountain rescue team, and which is often only found on pricier ski kit) and zipped pockets, although the front pockets are a tad small and hard to use.
Good scuff guards on the ankle protect the fabric, and snow gaiters will keep rogue snow at bay. The Avalanche is waterproof enough to repel snow, but the DWR coating may wear off with a lot of use, rendering them more water-resistant rather than ready to tackle deep powder.
There’s good value for money here, but if you’re really counting the pennies, Mountain Warehouse has more budget-friendly options on offer, including the functional Moon ski pants.
An award-winning travel and outdoors journalist, presenter and blogger, Sian regularly writes for The Independent, Evening Standard, BBC Countryfile, Coast, Outdoor Enthusiast and Sunday Times Travel. Life as a hiking, camping, wild-swimming adventure-writer has taken her around the world, exploring Bolivian jungles, kayaking in Greenland, diving with turtles in Australia, climbing mountains in Africa and, in Thailand, learning the hard way that peeing on a jellyfish sting doesn’t help. Her blog, thegirloutdoors.co.uk, champions accessible adventures.