Ski trousers or salopettes? The two terms have been used interchangeably, however there are some distinct differences between the two different styles. We've created this guide to help you choose between the two!

Ski trousers or ski pants as they might also be known as, are your standard style of ski bottoms. They are more fitted at the waist and go all the way down to the ankle. Ski trousers are seen as the more modern and fashionable style to wear on the slopes.

Salopettes aren't as fitted as ski pants. They have a slightly looser fit, are high waisted and have braces. The braces can be removable with certain pants, however they may be permanently attached on some salopettes so it's worth double checking when you're buying your next pair of salopettes.

There are still some key features you need to be looking out for whether you're choosing ski pants or salopettes -

• Waterproof and breathable fabrics. This kind of fabric keeps you dry whilst also keeping you feeling comfortable and not overheating.

• Articulation in the joints, to allow freedom of movement and help reduce any feeling of restriction.

• Snow gaitors to stop any snow travelling up your trouser legs.

• Taped seams to ensure full waterproofing. Fully taped seams means no water or moisture can make its way into the garment through the stitching or through the zips.

• Abrasion resistant fabric to inner ankle & bindings for extra durability, and to avoid any rubbing when taking your snow boots on and off.

When fitting a pair of ski trousers or salopettes, you want to size up one size from your regular trouser size. It's important that your ski pants aren't too tight or a perfect fit, as you'll be layering up. Having ski trousers or salopettes that are too tight will also restrict you while you're on the slopes. The ability to have a decent range of movement is key, and that's why it's important to look for the articulated joint feature when shopping for ski wear, even in a ski jacket.

You want to find a happy medium of pants that aren't too tight, but they're not loose enough to be falling down. You won't have time to constantly be pulling your pants up whilst you're out on the slopes.

It's also good to be aware that ski pants will be longer than regular pants, this is to make sure thy fully cover your ski boots and you don't have any skin showing, or any gaps that the snow could get up into.

When it comes to choosing between ski trousers or salopettes, it all really comes down to personal preference and styling. Both types of ski pants now come with the same level of ski features, salopettes just have an extra layer of security as you know the suspenders are over your shoulders and help to keep the pants high waisted.

To find out more about how to layer under your ski outerwear, you can check out our layering blog: Master Your Layers for The Slopes.