Maybe the snow was dry? Like a really really cold powder snow?
I've seen U tube videos with people sitting or kneeling directly on snow with no apparent discomfort ie apparently not getting wet - which type of trousers might they be/what spec would I need to look for to be sure I got that type?
(It may be some of those already mentionned but I can't tell from the narratives)
Maybe so - I suppose the basic point is.... are there trousers which are waterproof and hard wearing against abrasion from rocks/and thorns from brambles and comfortable to wear?
I don't know of any waterproof trews that will stand up to the same knocks as cotton or ventile, maybe look at hunting or mountain clothing, they'll have reinforced knees and seat. The Haglofs Rugged Mountain and Norrona Dovre Heavy Duty offer water resistance but wet out eventually in persistent rain.
I tend to wear army goretex trews for knocking about in the bush, if they get ruined then it's not too expensive to replace them. I've got some Norrona Dovre goretex trews but they're only Pro Shell so will snag on a bramble probably, I tend to wear mine in the canoe and swap for my swedish splinter camo goretex if I'm in the woods.