These are sturdy, basic ski and snowboard pants in a baggy "park rat" style. The construction is very robust and the materials are nearly top notch. Despite the baggy cut, the stiff fabric and a low crotch seem to inhibit freedom of motion more than other pants we've tested. When scored on our overall matrix, the Chemical Snow Pants are below average. The primary issues are in fit and mobility and with the durable water repellant applied by FlyLow.
Performance Comparison
Lead test editor and IFMGA mountain guide Jediah Porter in the Chemical Snow Pants during an avalanche course.
Weather Resistance
FlyLow's proprietary "Intuitive" fabric will keep out the water. Sealed seams and waterproof zippers all around complement this. The only issue we had with weather resistance was in our shower test. In that context, we rub the fabric under a stream of water until the external fabric is soaked. In other words, we brush it with our hand, firmly, until the water stops beading up. On both the FlyLow Chemical and FlyLow Baker Bibs, the water soaks in after just a few passes of the hand. The DWR of the Salomon Chill Out Bibs acted similarly, while all products from both Arc'Teryx and Patagonia take a serious multi-minute effort to get the water to soak in.
The overall construction of the FlyLow Chemical is sturdy and weatherproof, but the DWR could be better.
With time, a garment's ability to bead up water will fade. This is universal. Even when the outer fabric is soaked, that water will not get through the waterproof breathable membrane except under high pressure that you won't encounter in nature. Nonetheless, pants with wet face fabric don't feel awesome.
The Chemical Snow pants snap to FlyLow ski jackets for a high level of protection.
Fit and Comfort
One's first impression of the Chemical Pants is that they are big and baggy. If you are between sizes, we recommend sizing down. The fabric is also quite stiff. This inhibits motion. Further inhibiting motion is something about the tailoring. It seems that the crotch of the pants hangs lower, blocking some motion. There's enough motion for most ski and snowboard moves, but walking around and climbing, scrambling, or park time will meet resistance. The stretchy fabrics of the Patagonia Descensionist and the Salomon Chill Out Bib offer more freedom of motion. Arc'Teryx and Spyder tailoring do better than the FlyLow.
Ventilation
FlyLow pants top the ventilation charts. The dual leg vents (two, per leg!) lead the field and provide cross ventilation that none others provide. If you open both non-mesh-backed vents in a stiff breeze, it can feel almost as if you are wearing shorts.
For maximum airflow, we love the dual vents of the Chemical snow pants. That's two vents per leg that virtually turn your pants into shorts.
Style
These are decidedly targeted to the youthful rider. The cut is baggy and low. Additionally, the stiff fabric drapes differently. They look like rugged work pants more than athletic wear.
The FlyLow Chemical ski pants are color coordinated with a variety of FlyLow jacket options.
Warmth
There is no insulation in the FlyLow Chemical Pant. Nonetheless, the thick fabric feels warmer than other "three-layer" style pants. These are similar in warmth to the FlyLow Baker Bibs, but not as warm as the hanging lining of the Patagonia Powder Bowl or the full insulation of the Spyder Dare. They are warmer than the thin fabrics of the Patagonia Descensionist and the Arc'Teryx Rush LT.
Features
Pockets are the primary feature of the Chemical Pant. There are only three of them, but each is lined with smooth nylon and sealed with a waterproof zipper. We dig.
The baggy cuffs of the FlyLow Chemical offer refreshing boot adjustments. The overall trend to slimmer ski pants is welcome, except when making boot buckle adjustments.
Best Applications
These are robust pants for the hardcore user that likes the baggy style. If you like all that, but prefer bibs, check out the FlyLow Baker Bibs. Both are also marketed for backcountry use. We find that pants made with lighter, less stiff fabrics, even if they vent less well than the FlyLow pants, are better for true human-powered skiing.
Value
They're not cheap, but they will last a long time. Construction and materials are robust enough to last many years of regular use. Your per-day cost will be lower than some more expensive but less durable options.
Deep snow, fast moves, hard charging. For rough-and-tumble skiers riding it all, the robust construction of FlyLow gear inspires confidence.
Conclusion
FlyLow Chemical Pants are normal uninsulated ski pants that are baggy and super durable.
