These could double as snow pants. They are noisy like snow pants and because they are so water proof they would work well for cross country or even a spring ski day. Depends on how active you are. They breath alright. They are great for biking which is what i bought them for. Wet rainy morning the rain and cold stayed out so well i even got hot. Great pair of pants and a very good online price. No pockets except a small MP3 like pocket inside front, most likely for a key etc.