Insulation at the seat and knees
Rather than wrapping the whole leg in the same filling, 686 uses insulated panels around the seat and knees. Those are the areas that often meet a cold chairlift or the snow when you stop.
The rest of the lining has larger uninsulated areas. You still need to choose a base layer for the day, but the pants do not depend entirely on that layer for warmth.
Wet snow, vents and boot protection
The infiDRY outer and fully taped seams form the waterproof barrier. Inner-leg zippers let you release heat without opening the waistband, particularly useful when a cold morning becomes a warmer afternoon.
At the bottom, 500-denier reinforcement covers the inner ankle and rear hem. A snap-opening boot gusset gives extra space over footwear, while the gaiter has a stretch panel and lace hook.
Fit and everyday storage
External waist adjusters let you fine-tune the regular fit. Unlike a bib, the waist design leaves your upper body clear of straps and extra fabric, but gives less coverage if your jacket rides up.
Zipped hand pockets and a thigh cargo pocket provide separate storage. The cargo zipper is waterproof, and one hand pocket includes a key clip. Connectors are supplied for a compatible 686 jacket.
Where we suggest it
- Davos in February: The insulated seat and knees suit cold lift-served days; leg vents offer adjustment during warmer runs.
- St. Moritz in January: Paired with the Blizzard jacket for cold winter skiing, with a warm base layer beneath the pants.
Specifications
- Waterproofing
- 20,000 mm
- Breathability
- 15,000 GM (brand display)
- Weight
- 903 g
- Construction
- Insulated 2-layer pants
- Seams
- Fully taped seams
- Ventilation
- Inner-leg vents
Fabric: infiDRY 20K recycled polyester with a water-repellent finish made without added PFAS.
Keep comparing
If you want waist pants without built-in insulation, compare the uninsulated Rab Khroma Diffuse GORE-TEX Ski Pants.
See the matching 686 jacket: 686 Hydra Thermagraph Jacket.
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