About this Review: This review is my honest opinion of the ski pants, which I purchased with my own money in December of 2022.

My take

The North Face Men’s Freedom Insulated Pants are great for those colder days out in the elements. Whether I’m skiing at the resort, in the backcountry, or just sledding with friends, these pants will keep me warm.

About the pants I own

• Brand: The North Face
• Model: Men’s Freedom Insulated Pants
• Size Fit: Runs true to size

About me

• Height: 5’11”
• Weight: 185 lbs
• Pant size: 34
• Experience: 31 years of skiing

Test conditions

• When I bought these: December 2022
• Days used: 7
• Where I’ve used them: Bozeman and Big Sky
• Weather conditions used in: Cold sunny days, -44℉, and 25℉

How they perform

What I was looking for

My current ski pants are just a shell and don’t have any insulation. With the very cold temps here in Montana, I felt insulated pants would be better. I was also looking for roomier pants with good venting for warmer days.

Why I chose this gear

For the price, these pants were an easy decision. They have all the pockets and vents that most ski pants come with, as well as the kick panels in the inner ankle to keep one’s skis from damaging the material. I considered bibs and some 686 ski pants, but The North Face’s pricing was more wallet-friendly. I also prefer baggy insulated pants to allow for layering in extreme cold.

What I love about them

• Fit: Roomy, loose fit, but not super baggy allowing for layering. They allow for a base layer or even thicker undergarments. I usually layer with a base layer, and I get a little cold on the lift. These pants will help fix that issue.
• Comfort: Very comfortable all day and even for ápres. They are a little too warm indoors, though.
• Warmth: The Heatseeker insulation and polyester taffeta lining help keep me warm in very cold temps. They may be too warm for spring skiing or above-freezing days.
• Waterproofing: Durable DryVent nylon makes these pants very waterproof. I haven’t had any issues with staying dry in deep powder. I recommend different pants on a warm wet day because I feel like the material isn’t as waterproof as some other higher-end pants.
• Breathability: The Chimney Venting system creates great airflow when I get too warm. Hanging out in the lodge and in above-freezing temps can get a little too warm.
• Durability: These pants use recycled polyester along with reinforced edge guards and kick patches on the inner ankle to keep the pants intact from abuse.
• Weight: Slightly on the heavy side compared to a shell pant due to the insulated lining. Those riding in the park may feel like these pants are little too thick.
• Ease of movement: These pants are easy to move in, even with layers. I can even wear jeans under them.
• Quality: The materials that make up these pants are durable but also lightweight and functional. The seams feel strong, and the zippers are good quality. They may have issues over time with waterproofing, but time will tell.
• Special Features: The thigh pocket with Velcro is nice for carrying my phone and is easily accessible. I also like the adjustable Velcro on the waist, which allows for layering and precise fitment.

Issues I’ve encountered

• Other: These pants are best suited for very cold temps. Any day above 30℉ would be too warm, even with the vents open, unless one doesn’t have a base layer.

Favorite moment with this gear

My favorite moment so far with these pants is when I had to shovel snow in -44℉. I stayed warm and dry without sweating. I’ve also been able to go sledding with friends and felt like I could move around freely. These pants also have a little insulation that provides warmth but also padding in case I take an unexpected fall. These are great do-it-all ski/cold-weather pants.

Value for the money vs. other options

The pants are a great deal for the price. I get comfort, durability, and warmth all in one pant. I also looked at Fly Low bibs, but they are around double the price and usually don’t have pockets in the best spots.

Final verdict

The North Face Freedom pants allow me the freedom to withstand extreme cold temps and allow me to layer with great comfort. In addition, they come with all the bells and whistles required to store the essentials without having too many pockets and zippers.