DWR coating on pants?

Question

i found a really awesome pair of snowboarding pants that are nylon with a DWR coating. I know "water resistant" isn't as good as "waterproof," but would these be alright for general use? anybody ever used them before?

Answer 1

I have used pants with both a waterproof "coating / finish" and those with an actual waterproof barrier. There are advantages to both and it depends on the conditions.

For an experienced rider that isn't going to spend a lot of time on the ground, I actually prefer my DWR finish pants - they move with you better, are not so stiff, and when I am riding I don't sit a lot so they are fine.

Now for a newer rider that is going to spend a lot of time on the ground or when I am going to be riding in the park (which involves a lot of sitting, waiting, etc) or for very wet spring conditions, a waterproof barrier like GoreTex will be much better. I have sat in a puddle of snow and not gotten wet.

Good Luck

Answer 2

Softshell pants are usually best suited for spring riding. I would make sure you have a good pair of regular snowboarding pants before you buy these.