My ski pants are waterproof, why do I need a Beavertail?

True, ski pants today are water repellent / proof and also breathable. The water repellency feature keeps water from getting in, while the breathability feature allows moisture generated from the skin to escape. In ideal conditions, your base layer wicks away moisture from your skin and it evaporates via the breathable layer of the shell.

However, when it's snowing or raining and you sit on a wet chair lift, the backside of your ski pants becomes covered with a layer of water. The water layer is impermeable. It stops the pants from breathing and traps moisture inside. The pants are still keeping water from coming in, but interior moisture can't escape through the layer of water on the outside of the pants. It's a condition called "wet out". It makes you think your expensive waterproof pants are failing plus you're wet and cold.

Wearing the Beavertail gives you a protective layer between your ski pants and a wet chair lift. It prevents water from coating the backside of your pants and allows them to breathe. So the moment you stand up, air begins to circulate and your expensive waterproof pants can do their job and let the moisture escape. Your backside stays dry and you're warm and comfortable to enjoy the slopes.

Does the Beavertail come in different sizes?

Currently, the Beavertail comes in an adult one size fits all. The waist adjusts from 29" to 44". And remember, this measurement is taken around you ski pants, so you have to add about 4" to your normal waist measurement. We plan to add color options and child sizes in the near future.

What does the Beavertail cover?

When sitting on a chair lift, your butt and the backs of your thighs are primarily subject to wet out. However, your lower back, backs of your knees and the upper parts of your calves are also pressed against the chair and subject to wet out. The Beavertail rides high enough to protect your lower back and is long enough to protect the backside of your calves.

When I am skiing won't the Beavertail flap around and interfere with my skiing?

If you are so inclined, you won't even notice Beavertail while skiing or boarding. The Beavertail is made from sturdy 500 Denier Cordura nylon so it stays in place while skiing, and its soft texture keeps it quiet. Or if you chose, the Beavertail is small enough to fit in the smallest pack or pocket.

Is the Beavertail insulated or padded?

No, the Beavertail is designed to keep you dry. Insulation comes from the base layers you chose to wear under your shell. Padding would make it too bulky. We specifically designed it to carry easily in a pack or pocket, so it's with you when you need it.

If Beavertail weighs only 6 ounces, is it sturdy enough? And what is Cordura?

CORDURA fabric, made by INVISTA, is used by the most respected brands, retailers and militaries around the world when they require a product that is durable, versatile and reliable. Constructed using high tenacity fiber technologies, ounce for ounce, CORDURA fabrics are recognized as leaders the industry. Quality ski wear manufactures use CORDURA especially for the high wear areas like shoulders, knees, and elbows.

What about the tops of my legs when I am sitting on the chair lift?

When it is raining or snowing heavily, the tops of your thighs can also become subject to wet out, although not as common as your backside. Many skiers cover their lap with another Beavertail in extreme conditions. When worn together, air circulates through the opening between the Beavertails down the sides of your legs and breathability occurs.

About us

Our mission is simple: to keep you comfortable and dry so you can enjoy the great outdoors. We take great pride in our product, company and our commitment to customer service. We welcome your comments to improve our product. Our online store is designed to provide you with a safe and secure environment to purchase your very own Beavertail.