Stretch ski pants are slim ski trousers cut from a stretch fabric, often with a stirrup that runs under the foot inside the boot. The style was introduced by Maria Bogner in Munich in 1948 and it still gives the sleekest line on the mountain. Shop all women’s ski pants at Coveti and the Bogner edit.
Where the stirrup ski pant came from
Before 1948, skiers wore loose wool breeches. Maria Bogner cut a slim trouser from a stretch fabric and added a strap under the foot so the leg stayed straight. The look spread so fast that slim ski trousers were called Bogners. The story is told in full in our Bogner history.
Why the stirrup matters
A stirrup stops a slim leg riding up when you bend your knees, and it keeps the hem tidy inside the boot. Without it, a narrow trouser bunches at the ankle. Modern versions use softshell, a stretch fabric with a water-repellent face and a soft back, so they move with you.
Softshell vs padded stretch pants
Softshell stretch pants are light and breathable, best for active skiing and milder days. On cold days, add a thermal legging from our base layer guide. Padded stretch pants add insulation and suit skiers who feel the cold.
How should stretch ski pants fit?
Close but not tight. You should be able to squat without the fabric pulling at the knee, with room for a thin thermal layer. The waist should sit high enough to stay covered when you bend.
The pairs we would buy
1. Elaine Softshell Stirrup Trousers with Gussets in Black
Elaine is the modern Bogner stirrup trouser in softshell, with gussets that give room to move.
2. Hazel Softshell Ski Trousers in Black
Hazel is a slim softshell ski trouser in black, the easiest pair to wear with any jacket.
3. Haze Softshell Ski Trousers in Hazel and Beige
Haze is a softshell trouser in hazel and beige, a softer colour that suits a camel jacket.
4. Ilka Ski Trousers in Black
Ilka is a sleek technical ski trouser in black from Bogner Sport.
5. Zula Ski Trousers in Black
Zula is the Fire+Ice stretch ski trouser with a three-layer shell, a lower-priced choice.
What to wear with them
A slim leg calls for a fitted jacket. Pair stretch pants with a down jacket from our Bogner ski jackets guide, and see all luxury skiwear.
Stretch ski pants vs regular ski pants
| Stretch ski pants | Regular ski pants | |
| Fit | Slim, close to the leg | Straight and roomier |
| Fabric | Softshell with elastane | Woven shell, often insulated |
| Warmth | Light, layer a thermal underneath | Warmer on their own |
| Best for | Active skiing and a sleek look | Cold days and beginners |
Caring for stretch ski pants
Wash softshell on a gentle cycle with a technical detergent, close the zips first, and skip fabric softener, which clogs the fabric and weakens the water repellency. Dry them flat. A low tumble now and then can refresh the finish if the care label allows it.
More ski guides on Coveti: flare ski pants and women’s ski bibs.
Frequently asked questions
What are stretch ski pants?
They are slim ski trousers made from a stretch fabric such as softshell, often with a stirrup under the foot. Maria Bogner introduced the style in 1948.
Are stretch ski pants warm?
Softshell stretch pants are light and best worn over a thermal legging on cold days. Padded versions are warm enough on their own.
Do stretch ski pants go over the ski boot?
Most modern stretch ski pants have a boot gaiter that goes over the boot. Stirrup styles sit inside the boot, with the strap under the foot.
Are stirrup ski pants comfortable?
Yes, when they fit well. The stirrup should sit flat under the foot without pulling at the knee.
Who makes the best stretch ski pants?
Bogner introduced the stretch ski pant and still makes some of the best, including softshell stirrup trousers in its Bogner Sport line.
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