Why should you wash your ski pants?

The beauty of nature is wild and raw in the winter. Luckily, your ski pants and ski jacket will protect you against the snow and the icy winds, Yet, at the same time, lets your skin breathe. This is achieved thanks to the use of modern hi-tech fibres. If you go skiing often, you will probably have sensed that sweat and oils are absorbed by the fabric. Dirt and salt on the roads settle on the surface of the material. In order to get rid of this yet protect the special attributes of the material, you should look to wash and waterproof your ski pants.

Instructions: how to wash your ski pants the right way

If you intend washing your ski pants, please take heed of the following: the functional fabric needs special care.

Read on to find out how to wash your ski pants:

1. Check the care label: Firstly, read the instructions on the care label if you intend to wash your ski pants. It will tell you how best to wash your ski pants, whether or not to use a spin dryer and/or tumble dryer.

2. Check the pockets: Go through all the pockets – not forgetting the back pockets and those on the legs of the ski pants. Take everything out, then make sure all the fastenings are closed.

3. Check all fastenings: Ensure that all the fastenings – Velcro, zips and press studs – are closed. This also goes for the snowskirt. Then you know that there is less danger of metal parts getting caught up inside of the drum and causing seams to tear.

4. Turn inside out: The inside of your ski pants normally consists of a soft fleece and the outer material is a waterproof functional fabric. Therefore, to protect the outer fabric, always turn your ski pants inside out before putting them into the washing machine.

5. Detergent: Choosing the correct detergent is important if you intend washing your ski pants! Whatever you do, ensure that you use a special detergent for washing outdoor clothing. Normal washing powder is not suitable for functional fibres.

6. Washing machine programme: Some washing machines have a specific programme for sportswear and outdoor clothing. Alternatively, choose a programme for delicates at 30 degrees and a slow spin. Take a tip from us: Give your ski pants an extra rinse to make sure that any detergent has been thoroughly washed out

7. Drying: If the care label says that you can tumble-dry your ski pants, choose a gentle programme. Alternatively, simply hang up your ski pants on a hanger to dry. However, you should waterproof them beforehand.

How to waterproof ski pants when washing them

Look to waterproof your ski pants, waterproof trousers or softshell trousers after washing them. This will keep them at their best, so that their breathability is maintained and the water pearls off.

How to waterproof your ski pants after washing them:

• Read the instructions on the waterproofing bottle/spray carefully and follow them.
• Make sure there is no washing powder still in the detergent drawer of the washing machine; clean the drawer if necessary.
• Thoroughly shake the bottle containing the waterproofing product and add the recommended amount to the detergent drawer.
• Chose a wash programme (including rinse) with a temperature of 30 degrees and wash your ski pants with the waterproofing product.
• Heat is imperative, in order to activate the waterproofing. Then put your ski pants in the tumble-dryer on a low to medium heat for 50 minutes. Alternatively, you can also iron the ski pants. Set the iron to a temperature of 110 degrees. Please ensure that you follow the care instructions on the ski pant’s care label.

More tips for looking after your ski pants

Itching to wear them out on the slopes? Then your ski pants should be ready for action! If you intend washing your ski pants, please take care not to fall into the following traps.

You will avoid any mishaps if you follow these tips:

1. No bleach: White ski pants are particularly prone to showing the dirt. Use gall soap and water to pretreat stubborn stains when you intend washing a pair of white ski pants. Bleach should never be used to wash functional clothing.

2. Not too often: You should only wash your ski pants when it is really necessary. After all, each wash stresses the fabric.

3. No fabric conditioner: Avoid fabric softener at all costs if you wash functional clothes like winter jackets, rain jackets, ski pants or hiking trousers. The cationic tenside contained in fabric softener envelops the fibres and can damage the breathability.

4. Do not wash the item at the last minute: Never leave washing your ski pants until the last moment before setting off on your next trip. They will need to air for a day or so after drying. Airing will allow the remaining dampness to evaporate.

As you can see: It’s not that difficult to wash your ski pants in the right way. If you care for your ski pants, you’ll get plenty of wear out of them And if you do decide to buy yourself new ski pants, why not take a look at our interactive Jack Wolfskin trouser guide!