When it comes to snow pants for men, two popular options stand out from the rest: the Columbia Bugaboo II Pant and the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant. Both of these products are designed to provide warmth, comfort, and protection from the elements, but they have some key differences that set them apart.
Waterproofing and Breathability
Both pants feature waterproof and breathable membranes, but they differ in their technology and implementation. The Columbia Bugaboo II Pant uses Columbia's OutDry technology, which is a proprietary membrane that prevents water from penetrating the fabric while allowing moisture to escape. This results in a highly breathable and dry pant that is perfect for high-intensity activities.
On the other hand, the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant features Helly Hansen's own H2Flow technology, which is a combination of a waterproof and breathable membrane with a insulation layer. This technology provides excellent warmth and protection from the elements, but may not be as breathable as the OutDry technology used in the Columbia pant.
Insulation
The Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant features PrimaLoft insulation, which provides excellent warmth and lightweight comfort. The insulation is strategically placed to provide maximum warmth without compromising mobility. In contrast, the Columbia Bugaboo II Pant does not have built-in insulation, but instead relies on the user's base layers to provide warmth.
Fit and Mobility
Both pants are designed to provide a comfortable fit and allow for full range of motion. The Columbia Bugaboo II Pant features an articulated knee design and a gusseted crotch, which provides excellent mobility and comfort. The Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant also features an articulated design, but with a more relaxed fit through the thigh and knee.
Features
Both pants feature adjustable cuffs, hem, and waistbands to provide a secure fit. The Columbia Bugaboo II Pant also features reinforced scuff guards and kick patches for added durability. The Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant features multiple pockets, including a zippered thigh pocket and a cargo pocket, which provides ample storage for small items.
Weight and Packability
The Columbia Bugaboo II Pant is significantly lighter than the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant, weighing in at 1 lb 4 oz compared to 2 lbs 1 oz. This makes it an excellent choice for backcountry skiing or snowboarding, where weight and packability are crucial. The Helly Hansen pant, on the other hand, is more suited for resort skiing or snowboarding, where warmth and protection from the elements are more important.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Columbia Bugaboo II Pant and the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant are excellent choices for snow pants for men. However, they cater to different needs and preferences. If you prioritize breathability, mobility, and lightweight comfort, the Columbia Bugaboo II Pant may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you need a warm and protective pant with ample insulation and features, the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant is an excellent option.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a versatile and high-performance pant that can handle a variety of snow sports, the Columbia Bugaboo II Pant may be the way to go. But if you prioritize warmth and protection from the elements, and don't mind a slightly heavier pant, the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant is an excellent choice for snow pants for men.
