Thursday, November 14, 2024
HomeOutdoorFinest Ladies's Ski & Snowboard Bibs of 2023

Finest Ladies’s Ski & Snowboard Bibs of 2023


Well-made women’s-specific ski bibs haven’t always been available. In 2016, Flylow’s groundbreaking and wildly popular bib was a huge seller. The design is high-chested and technical. It topped the brand’s direct sales of all products immediately after launch. And the snowboard brand Airblaster, founded nearly two decades ago, has long been known for producing apparel and outerwear with great drop seats, so relieving oneself is easier than ever — despite all those layers.

Today, the demand for women’s ski and snowboard bibs remains strong. They’re not just convenient; they’re also functional, comfy, and capable. Clever rear access, a multitude of pockets, better coverage for pow days, and easy layering — these are just a few benefits of these best women’s ski bibs.

And while some bibs are stylistically more branded toward either skiers or snowboarders, nearly all of our top picks work well with narrow ski boots or wider-topped snowboard boots (unless otherwise noted). Though, some bibs operate better in the backcountry compared to resort-tailored pants.

To learn more about bib designs and selection, scroll to the bottom of the page to read our FAQ and buyer’s guide. Still weighing your options? Consult our comparison chart to see how every bib stacks up on the slopes. Otherwise, take a look at our awarded picks or scroll through all of the options below:

The Best Women’s Ski and Snowboard Bibs of 2023

Best Overall Women’s Ski Bib

  • Weight
    764 g
  • Shell
    Recycled Tactic 3L stretch fabric
  • Insulation
    No
  • Pockets
    5
  • Seams
    Fully sealed
  • Zippers
    YKK waterproof
  • RECCO
    No
  • Fit
    Regular
  • Cuffs
    500-denier CORDURA nylon
  • Waterproof
    20,000mm/20,000g waterproof/breathable plus DWR treatment for water repellency
  • Climate
    Dry to the wettest coastal winter conditions
  • Key features
    Two mid-thigh pockets, one zippered chest pocket, kangaroo pocket on chest (with zipper), one zippered back pocket, interior, and exterior thigh zippers for ventilation, elastic back panel for comfort and breathability, wide belt loops, adjustable shoulder straps, gaiters


  • Robust cuff liners

  • Extra ventilation with both interior and exterior zippers

  • Tall and short lengths offered across size run


  • Only goes up to XL

  • Interior leg ventilation zippers are relatively short

female skier in pale pink Flylow Foxy Bib standing on low angle slope
The Flylow Foxy Bib is one of the most popular-selling ski bib designs and ranked high according to GearJunkie testers; (photo/GearJunkie)

Best Budget Women’s Ski Bib

  • Weight
    935 g
  • Shell
    2-layer DyVent waterproof membrane, 57% recycled nylon
  • Insulation
    No
  • Pockets
    5
  • Seams
    Fully seam-sealed
  • Zippers
    Unavailable
  • RECCO
    No
  • Fit
    Tailored
  • Cuffs
    StretchVent gaiters with gripper elastic, reinforced kick patches
  • Waterproof
    15,000mm/15,000g waterproofing/breathability, and a non-PFC DWR finish
  • Climate
    Dry to mildly wet winter conditions with moderate to super cold temperatures (freezing or below)
  • Key features
    Adjustable suspenders, belt loops, two napoleon pockets on the upper bib, two zippered hand pockets, one right leg cargo pocket, side entry zipper, inner thigh vents

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • Ample pocket space

  • Articulated knees


  • A lower waterproof rating won’t be a good fit for wet snow climates

  • Heavier weight

Runner-Up Best Women’s Ski Bib

  • Weight
    720 g
  • Shell
    76% Polyamide, 24% Elastane
  • Insulation
    No
  • Pockets
    2
  • Seams
    Unavailable
  • Zippers
    YKK water repellent
  • RECCO
    Yes
  • Fit
    Regular
  • Cuffs
    Reinforced interior instep
  • Waterproof
    Helly Tech Professional range +20,000 mm waterproof rating
  • Climate
    Dry to the wettest coastal winter conditions
  • Key features
    2 way stretch, articulated knees, detachable and adjustable suspenders, elastic waist, gusseted crotch, adjustable snow gaiter, reinforced insteps, ventilation openings, large chest pocket, thigh pocket, 3-layer construction, drop seat, no PFCs, some recycled materials

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • Incredibly stretchy and lightweight great for movement

  • Removable suspenders


  • Wish there were more pockets

Best Hybrid Women’s Ski Bib for Resort and Backcountry

  • Weight
    618 g
  • Shell
    3-layer Pertex Shield with 40-denier face fabric and tricot knit backer
  • Insulation
    No
  • Pockets
    3
  • Seams
    Unavailable
  • Zippers
    Unavailable
  • RECCO
    No
  • Fit
    Relatively tailored (not tight)
  • Cuffs
    420-denier nylon scuff guard
  • Waterproof
    20,000mm/20,000g waterproof/breathability
  • Climate
    Dry to the wettest coastal winter conditions
  • Key features
    Avalanche beacon pocket with clip, chest pocket, two hand pockets

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • Moderate price point for backcountry-centric features

  • Fabric is pliable


  • Constructed for backcountry and might not be the top choice for resort skiers/riders

  • No insulation for those seeking extra warmth

Most Durable Women’s Ski Bib

  • Weight
    602 g
  • Shell
    3-layer Toray Dermizax EV elastic PU membrane blended with merino wool (from sheep)
  • Insulation
    Merino wool (from sheep)
  • Pockets
    4
  • Seams
    Fully sealed
  • Zippers
    Unavailable
  • RECCO
    No
  • Fit
    Roomier and athletic
  • Cuffs
    Integrated Dyneema-CORDURA patches
  • Waterproof
    20,000mm / 20,000g waterproof/breathability
  • Climate
    Dry to the wettest coastal winter conditions with moderate to super cold temperatures (freezing or below)
  • Key features
    one chest pocket, two extensive hand pockets, one hip pocket, two-way zipper on drop seat, integrated gaiters, PFC-free, carabiner integrated into right pocket for avalanche transceiver, merino insert in the lower back for warmth

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • Super durable against sharp edges and weather with Dyneema and CORDURA

  • Very breathable and adaptable fabric

  • Extensive length on hand pockets


  • Pricier

  • Built for backcountry use (might be overdone for resort-goers)

Ortovox 3L Deep Shell Bib Pants
GearJunkie Snowsports Editor Morgan Tilton tests the tenacious 3L Deep Shell Bib Pants in the backcountry on skis, splitboard, and snowmobile; (photo/Morgan Tilton)

Best Insulated Women’s Snowboard Bib

  • Weight
    862 g
  • Shell
    2-layer Eco-Vortex stretch fabric with PFC-free DWR
  • Insulation
    None
  • Pockets
    5
  • Seams
    Fully sealed
  • Zippers
    YKK
  • RECCO
    No
  • Fit
    Tailored (but not tightly fitted)
  • Cuffs
    Smartly roll up with an elastic tightener to cinch and prevent tear-ups while walking
  • Waterproof
    30,000mm/20,000g waterproofing/breathability plus FC-Free Eco-DWR for extra water resistance
  • Climate
    Dry to the wettest coastal winter conditions with moderate to super cold temperatures (freezing or below)
  • Key features
    Adjustable elastic straps, elastic lower gaiters with lace hook, taffeta lining printed (with bats!), key clip inside pocket, two zippered hand pockets, two backside pockets, one chest pocket

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • 350-degree waist zipper for drop seat

  • Super soft fleece lining in two hand pockets


  • Not the ideal choice for backcountry touring due to breathability

  • We’d like Airblaster to consider adding a second pocket up top

Airblaster Women’s Sassy Hot Bib - chest pocket
The Airblaster Sassy Hot Bib is ideal for resort riding, a bit insulated, and has excellent waterproofing for wet, heavy storms; (photo/Eric Phillips)

Most Flattering Women’s Ski Bib

  • Weight
    800g
  • Shell
    80% Nylon, 20% Spandex
  • Insulation
    Yes
  • Pockets
    2
  • Seams
    Not fully taped for waterproofness
  • Zippers
    YKK AquaGuard zippers
  • RECCO
    No
  • Fit
    Slim
  • Cuffs
    No additional reinforcement
  • Waterproof
    10,000mm waterproof rating
  • Climate
    Dry to somewhat wet
  • Key features
    Two exterior pockets, gaiters, zippered gusseted hems, adjustable elastic shoulder straps

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • Stand out design with single zipper down the front

  • Short inseam lengths available

  • Insulation cozy for chilly resort days

  • Flattering cut


  • Not the most waterproof option for skiers who frequent PNW or other wetter locales

  • No drop seat

Best of the Rest

  • Weight
    708 g
  • Shell
    3-layer Dermizax 150-denier waterproof/breathable fabric
  • Insulation
    No
  • Pockets
    3
  • Seams
    Fully seam-sealed for waterproofness
  • Zippers
    YKK water-resistant Aquaguard zippers at outset vents plus YKK zippered fly, hand pockets, and thigh pocket
  • RECCO
    No
  • Fit
    Roomier than a trim design for athletic performance but still has a feminine tailor
  • Cuffs
    Kickpatch is made of 600-denier CORDURA Nylon with a TPU coating and DWR finish
  • Waterproof
    Yes with 20,000mm waterproof /10,000g breathability plus a DWR finish atop the fabric
  • Climate
    Dry to the wettest coastal winter conditions
  • Key features
    Belt loops, easy-to-adjust elastic suspender straps, two zippered hand pockets, thigh pocket

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • Articulated knees

  • The thigh pocket is zippered and covered with a snap flap


  • We’ve seen our Stio zipper pulls wear out on other products

  • We’d like to see more pockets (but it’s tough with the low bib design)

  • Narrow leg hem means the fit might not slide well over snowboard boots

  • Weight
    765 g (medium)
  • Shell
    3-layer PNW fabric with 20,000mm-rated waterproof membrane
  • Insulation
    No
  • Pockets
    5
  • Seams
    Fully sealed
  • Zippers
    Water-resistant zippers
  • RECCO
    Yes
  • Fit
    Slim-fitting with a range of movement
  • Cuffs
    SuperFabric cuffs and kick patches
  • Waterproof
    20,000mm/20,000g waterproof/breathability
  • Climate
    Dry to the wettest coastal winter conditions
  • Key features
    Chest pocket with D-ring for transceiver, internal boot gaiters, Bluesign-certified face fabric, two hand pockets, two thigh pockets, wide belt loops, adjustable elastic strap suspenders

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • Features short, regular, and tall options across sizes (XS to XXL) for the win!

  • Smartly placed leg pockets


  • At the higher end of the price range

  • PNW-level waterproofness isn’t needed for everyone

  • Weight
    583 g (size 10)
  • Shell
    90% Polyamide, 10% Elastane, Polyurethane Membrane
  • Insulation
    No
  • Pockets
    4
  • Seams
    Fully taped for waterproofness
  • Zippers
    YKK and YKK AquaGuard
  • RECCO
    No
  • Fit
    Regular
  • Cuffs
    Reinforced interior instep patches
  • Waterproof
    20D Proflex Stretch Woven Nylon 3-layer Waterproof Technology with fluorocarbon-free DWR (149g/m²), 20,000mm waterproof rating
  • Climate
    Dry to the wettest coastal winter conditions
  • Key features
    Stretchy nylon back for comfort, waterproof front fly zip, 4 external pockets, 2 thigh pockets, 1 rear pocket, 1 bib pocket, exterior thigh vents, drop seat, internal snow gaiter with cuffs, reinforced crampon patches and hem

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • Generous pockets

  • Less expensive performance option for backcountry hard chargers

  • Soft hard shell material


  • Mountaineering features might be overkill for resort goers

  • Higher neck can feel bulky depending on personal preference

  • Weight
    565 g
  • Shell
    80D 3L GORE-TEX fabric with GORE C-KNIT™ backer technology
  • Insulation
    No
  • Pockets
    3
  • Seams
    Unavailable
  • Zippers
    WaterTight zippers (water resistant, not waterproof)
  • RECCO
    Yes
  • Fit
    Regular
  • Cuffs
    100D Cordura Quick adjust TouringCuff
  • Waterproof
    N80p 3L GORE-TEX
  • Climate
    Dry to the wettest coastal winter conditions
  • Key features
    Thigh pocket with flap closure, zippered thigh pocket with key loop, zippered chest pocket, gaiter insert for bootstrap and easier adjustments, exterior thigh zippers for ventilation, snap connectors to other Arc’teryx jackets, RECCO reflector, drop seat, adjustable suspenders, contains Bluesign materials

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • Creative cuff liners

  • Lightweight, soft, waterproof (but not noisy) fabric

  • Durable


  • Pricey

  • Zippers aren’t completely waterproof

  • No tall or short inseam sizes this year

Reviewer Kylie Mohr earned her turns in the Arc’teryx Rush Bib; (photo/Kylie Mohr)
  • Weight
    584 g
  • Shell
    H2No Performance Standard 2-layer 100% recycled polyester fabric
  • Insulation
    Soft Microfleece panel in the seat
  • Pockets
    Secure chest pocket, and two midthigh pockets
  • Seams
    Not available
  • Zippers
    Water-resistant zips
  • RECCO
    Yes
  • Fit
    Tailored (but not snuggly fitted)
  • Cuffs
    Integrated internal elastic cuffs, along with tough scuff guards on the inside of the legs
  • Waterproof
    20,000mm waterproofing with a PFC-free DWR finish, breathability unavailable
  • Climate
    Dry to mildly wet winter conditions with moderate to super cold temperatures (freezing or below)
  • Key features
    Zippered pockets, secure chest pocket, outer leg venting, and side full zip

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • PFC-free DWR finish

  • Microfiber fleece panel in the seat


  • 2-layer waterproof membrane isn’t the most waterproof/breathable, or the most durable

Female skier opening jacket over Patagonia Powder Town Bibs
GearJunkie Snowsports Editor Morgan Tilton got a preview of the PFC-free Patagonia Powder Town Bibs and was impressed with the lightweight, comfortable design; (photo/Jason Hummel)

 

  • Weight
    658 g
  • Shell
    3-layer 200D GORE-TEX PRO with a 100% recycled nylon face and 200D Vectran fabric leg reinforcements
  • Insulation
    No
  • Pockets
    4
  • Seams
    Taped seams with thin GORE-TEX 13 mm tape
  • Zippers
    YKK water-resistant zips
  • RECCO
    No
  • Fit
    Relaxed fit that accommodates snowboard boots and backcountry touring
  • Cuffs
    Snow gaiters and Vectran-reinforced fabric inside ankles
  • Waterproof
    28,000mm/25,000g waterproofing/breathability and a DWR finish
  • Climate
    Dry to the wettest coastal winter conditions
  • Key features
    Mesh-lined zipper vents, lower leg adjustments with button snaps, two thigh pockets, a key pocket, and two chest pockets

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • Impressive GORE-TEX PRO waterproofing and breathability

  • More than 50% of the fibers used in construction are recycled

  • Many pocket options


  • Price

  • No RECCO reflector

  • Suspenders are finicky to adjust

  • Weight
    564 g
  • Shell
    3-layer, 4-oz 40-denier 100% recycled nylon ripstop GORE-TEX PRO
  • Insulation
    No
  • Pockets
    3
  • Seams
    Unavailable
  • Zippers
    Vislon zippers
  • RECCO
    Yes
  • Fit
    Generous and athletic, easily accommodates backcountry travel
  • Cuffs
    Integrates elastic snow gaiters, along with tough scuff guards on the inside of legs
  • Waterproof
    28,000mm/25,000g waterproofing/breathability and a DWR finish
  • Climate
    Dry to the wettest coastal winter conditions
  • Key features
    Two thigh cargo pockets, one additional pocket on the right hip, grown-on belt loops, elastic suspender straps

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • 100% recycled nylon face fabric GORE-TEX PRO fabric

  • Generous fit works well for backcountry tourers


  • Price

  • Not many colorway options

  • Weight
    500 g
  • Shell
    3-layer 100% polypropylene LIFA INFINITY PRO fabric
  • Insulation
    No
  • Pockets
    4
  • Seams
    Unavailable
  • Zippers
    Water-resistant zips
  • RECCO
    Yes
  • Fit
    Roomier and athletic
  • Cuffs
    Internal snow gaiters and scuff-guards
  • Waterproof
    20,000mm waterproofing with LIFA INFINITY PRO fabric, no chemical DWR needed. Breathability unavailable
  • Climate
    Dry to mildly wet winter conditions with moderate to super cold temperatures (freezing or below)
  • Key features
    Adjustable suspenders, two left leg pockets, one right leg pocket, and one upper hip pocket with beacon loop, snow gaiters, and back thigh vents

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • No chemical DWR finish needed

  • Upper softshell bib has great freedom of movement


  • Some find the suspenders a bit of a trick to adjust

female splitboarder touring in the helly hansen odin mountain infinity bib
GearJunkie Snowsports Editor Morgan Tilton tested the Helly Hansen Odin Mountain Infinity Bib, and found the half-bib design was super durable against wind and that it has a comfortable, ergonomic waistband; (photo/Eric Phillips)
  • Weight
    780 g
  • Shell
    2-layer 686 infiDRY construction
  • Insulation
    infiLOFT 40g insulation in the knees and seat with a satin lining
  • Pockets
    5
  • Seams
    Critically taped seams
  • Zippers
    YKK zips
  • RECCO
    No
  • Fit
    Tailored
  • Cuffs
    Boot gaiters with a buttoned gusset for adjustment and 500D durable hem fabric
  • Waterproof
    10,000mm/10,000g waterproofing/breathability, and a DWR finish
  • Climate
    Dry to mildly wet winter conditions with moderate to super cold temperatures (freezing or below)
  • Key features
    Adjustable suspenders, belt loops, mesh-lined inner leg vents, boot gussets, insulated seat and knees, stretch bib pocket, two front leg pockets, two back seat pockets, lift ticket eyelet

The Best Women’s Ski Bibs of 2023


  • Ski-resort friendly design with insulated seat for chair-lift rides

  • Stretch side panels


  • Heavier

  • A slimmer fit won’t be for everyone

Airblaster Women’s Sassy Hot Bib - fit
Snowsports Editor Morgan Tilton tested the Airblaster Sassy Hot Bib, which has a convenient, unique 350-degree wrap-around zipper; (photo/Eric Phillips)

Women’s Ski Bibs Comparison Chart 

Why You Should Trust Us

The GearJunkie team is made up of experienced and expert skiers and snowboarders that explore groomed terrain at ski areas as well as the backcountry byway of skis, splitboards, and snowmobiles. We explore runs in-bounds and hut-to-hut all over North America, including bell-to-bell resort powder days, ski-to-surf trips such as on Vancouver Island, backcountry hut adventures, skimo races, and cross-country laps on the nordic trails.

Women’s ski bibs are essential for staying comfortable and dry while in motion, riding the lift, maintaining the rig, shoveling, or taking a snack break. Over the years, we’ve tested many different ski bibs, and this list comprises the best of the best.

While testing women’s ski and snowboard bibs in the field, we assessed durability, overall fit, ease of movement, protection, fabric feel, breathability, ventilation, warmth, zipper quality, pocket placement and utility, drop seat integration, and functionality. We’ve tested ski bibs while carving turns in ice-cold temperatures, blizzards, blustery wind, intense sun, and even rain from far-out tours to parking lot tailgating.

In addition to our team’s experience, we considered the most innovative, novel, legacy, popular, and bestselling women’s ski bibs on the market. These bibs represent a broad range of price points and a variety of features and applications for a range of use.

female skier poses with skies
GearJunkie Editor Mary Murphy testing bibs on-piste; (photo/Jason Hummel)

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Women’s Ski or Snowboard Bibs

Whether skiing or snowboarding, having a pair of comfortable, hardworking snow pants is essential. Here are a few tips for finding the best ladies’ ski and snowboard bibs.

Drop Seat

For the uninitiated, the drop seat is super convenient in the backcountry setting as well as at the resort. You don’t need to take off your jacket in a stuffy stall in order to pull down your snow bibs to relieve yourself. Instead, you snug up your jacket a bit, pull the zipper around, and follow your normal routine.

Each drop seat design varies — it’s like the top-secret pasta sauce recipe for your favorite Italian restaurant.

For instance, the drop seat on the Airblaster Sassy Hot Bib is unique in that it wraps nearly entirely around. The zipper goes 350 degrees. A storm flap also covers the zipper, which adds style points.

Other drop seats reach super far down the leg for an even larger opening, which can be convenient for managing varying conditions in the backcountry, like the Ortovox women’s 3L Deep Shell Bib Pants.

Airblaster Women’s Sassy Hot Bib - interior
The drop seat design on the Airblaster Sassy Hot Bib is super functional; (photo/Eric Phillips)

Consider Activity and Usage

Chances are, if you’re looking for a pair of snow bibs to wear for a specific winter sport such as backcountry skiing or splitboarding, alpine skiing, or snowboarding, they’ll each have slightly different design features, fit, and style that make those bibs more comfortable and functional for the day’s winter activity.

That being said, many ski bibs do work for other winter activities such as sledding, shoveling, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, winter hiking, dog walking, building snow caves, snowball fights, and pow surfing.

As you narrow down your top activity, consider the average temperature, conditions, and your personal body heat. Do the temperatures hover at 0 degrees or up towards 30 degrees, and is there often windchill? Do you expect dry or wet snow? Will you be consistently moving, or do you anticipate being sedentary such as on the ski lift or while watching the kids play in the snow outside? And do you generally tend to run hot or cold?

Depending on the activity and output, you’ll want either an insulated or uninsulated bib and ventilation as well as waterproofness (which varies from bib to bib). Each of those factors influences the price tag.

Patagonia Powder Town - backside exterior
The Patagonia Powder Town bibs feature interior microfleece panels inside for warmth on the backside; (photo/Jason Hummel)

Skiing vs. Snowboarding

Chances are, if you’re looking for a pair of bibs to wear snowboarding or skiing, they will be much different from a snowshoeing pant. Take a minute to think about your winter activities.

Do you want to prioritize a stretchier fabric, or a beefier shell? Are you looking for something with more coverage? Do you frequent the backcountry or resorts? Lots of brands add venting to bibs (just like ski pants) so you can release some heat when boot-packing uphill.

For skiers versus snowboarders who use a slightly different range of motion on the mountain, some bibs may work better than others. One of the biggest factors is how the pant leg hem and gaiter fit. Some designs are streamlined and narrow to best fit over a ski boot neck. Other pant leg designs have a tad wider circumference or offer a zipper or snap closure to first widen and then pull the pant leg down over the snowboard or splitboard boot. Not all gaiter designs work well with snowboard or splitboard boots.

For snowboarders and splitboarders, we’d recommend considering our overall pick, the Flylow Foxy Bib, or our most durable pick, the Ortovox 3L Deep Shell Bib.

A closeup of the side zipper for the drop seat on the Jones Snowboards Women’s Mountain Surf Bibs
A closeup of the side zipper for the drop seat on the Jones Snowboards Women’s Mountain Surf Bibs; (photo/Eric Phillips)

Type of Fit

Do you prefer a relaxed or more athletic fit? This is mainly preference, but it’s important to note sizing sometimes differs depending on the pant’s fit.

If you want an unencumbered range of motion, go with a relaxed fit. And if you run cold and wear more or thicker layers, consider an insulated bib or going up a size.

Fabrics

For powder days or backcountry travel, it makes a lot of sense to invest in a GORE-TEX or similar fully waterproof fabric. Two-layer and three-layer fabrics have different weights, waterproofness, and breathability ratings.

Ask yourself whether the pant will work for what you want. The goal is to find a pant with a fabric that will complement your activity level on the mountain. In general, if you ski at both the resort and backcountry, we’d recommend prioritizing a bib with higher breathability (like those with a GORE-TEX membrane).

Other fabrics feature insulation, which we recommend if you generally run cold, tend to move more cautiously (and thus slowly), need to slow down to manage kiddos, teach others, or have long ski lift rides in ice-cold temps.

Patagonia Powder Town bibs - front view
The hand pockets are sizable on the Patagonia Powder Town Bibs; (photo/Jason Hummel)

Waterproofness

A waterproof bib is ideal for being outside in wet snow, rain, or drizzly weather. The top-tier standard for waterproofness is GORE-TEX, which is a membrane integrated into various bib designs. The material is waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Many brands likewise have a proprietary version of waterproof-breathable fabrics.

Waterproofness is measured by the amount of water that can be placed atop a fabric before it leaks. The rate of waterproof fabric varies from 5,000 to 20,000 mm or greater. The latter end of the spectrum leads to a less breathable fabric.

  • 0-5,000 mm: Resistant to light rain, dry snow
  • 6,000-10,000 mm: Waterproof for light rain and dry, non-heavy snow
  • 11,000-15,000 mm: Waterproof for moderate rain and dry, non-heavy snow
  • 16,000-20,000 mm: Waterproof for heavy rain and wet snow
  • 20,000 mm and greater: Waterproof for heavy rain and dense, heavy snow

Many bibs are waterproof or offer a degree of water resistance, the latter of which works fine in dryer winter climates and where the snow water equivalent (read: the amount of liquid water in the snow) is lower.

There are four general snow climates: coastal, transitional, intermountain, and continental.

Generally, the closer you are to the coast, the more precipitation you’ll experience and the water content will be higher in the snow: it’ll be wetter and heavier! In contrast, the snow in continental climates is dryer, lighter, and accumulates less compared to the coast. That includes most of the Rocky Mountains, such as in Colorado. Intermountain regions and ranges show characteristics of both and transitional areas are similar to the coast but with less rain and snow.

Examples according to the Utah Avalanche Center:

  • Coastal (wettest): California, Washington, Oregon, coastal Alaska, coastal British Columbia
  • Transitional (moderately wet): areas and targeted locations in Montana, northern Idaho, and Oregon
  • Intermountain (mildly wet): Utah’s Wasatch Range, most of Idaho, Montana, portions of Northeast Oregon, and Southwest Colorado
  • Continental (mostly dry): Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, interior Alaska, interior British Columbia

Factors that change the waterproofness or water resistance of a ski bib include the face fabric treatment, which can be eco-friendly formulas or chemicals that are toxic to the environment. Bibs can also have sealed seams to block moisture or waterproof zippers. Generally, the more water-resistant or waterproof a product is the pricier it will be.

Patagonia Powder Town bibs - front pocket view
The pockets are unique on the Patagonia Powder Town Bibs with an interior kangaroo pouch and exterior chest pocket accessed by zipper; (photo/Jason Hummel)

Pockets

Every pant has different features but one must-have for ski bibs is useful pockets. Ladies, you know what we’re talking about. That inch-wide chapstick pocket just doesn’t cut it.

Wide and long thigh pockets are especially great if you don’t like pocket items (like a cell phone or beacon) bunching up near your hips.

Various pockets with a range of sizes are usually situated on the upper half of the bib. Some bibs also have two zippered hand pockets in the front or even two pockets on the backside.

Patagonia Powder Town Bibs - side leg ventilation zipper
The ventilation zippers on the Patagonia Powder Town Bibs are easy to operate; (photo/Jason Hummel)

Ventilation

We highly recommend picking out ski and snowboard bibs with ventilation, which will be placed alongside each leg on the exterior or interior. The zippers will be one-way or two-way. Very few zippers are fully waterproof but some brands do invest in that upgrade.

Inside the zipper, you sometimes have a mesh liner for protection against sun or snow flurries while other brands opt for no mesh. Overall, the length of a zipper for leg ventilation will vary.

Cuffs & Gaiters

We also recommend that the ski or snowboard bibs you choose have internal gaiters that secure well over boots (gaiters with boot adjustment access are a plus).

Some cuffs are narrower than others and fit better over ski boots compared to snowboard boots. Other cuffs are designed for better customization with either side zippers or snaps, which allow you to widen the circumference when you pull the pant leg down over your boots. We prefer that for snowboard and splitboard boots, especially if there is a BOA system to pull the pant leg down over.

For extra durability, especially for backcountry users, certain cuffs are reinforced with tough materials like Kevlar to help prevent the material from shredding over time or getting cut up by the ski edge or crampons while ascending a peak.

Patagonia Powder Town Bibs - pant leg cuffs
The Patagonia Powder Town Bibs offer durable cuff guards; (photo/Jason Hummel)

What Is RECCO?

RECCO is a safety system used by ski teams and rescue professionals to help find people who are misplaced, whether that’s being lost in the woods, held up due to injury or a health ailment, broken gear, or potentially trapped under snow due to an avalanche. It’s great safety addition to have in an emergency.

The first part of the system is a reflector that is placed in outerwear apparel and gear to help locate the wearer. A RECCO reflector doesn’t transmit any signals or need any batteries. The other side of the equation is the RECCO detector, which transmits an active signal, with a range of up to 120 m through the air and 10 to 20 m through the snow.

Note that a RECCO reflector does not replace an avalanche transceiver, also known as an avalanche beacon. If you plan to go into the sidecountry such as out the boundary gate at your local ski area, or into the backcountry, be sure to wear and know how to use your avalanche transceiver. Likewise, be sure that your ski partners wear and know how to use their avalanche transceivers.

Morgan Tilton testing the Jones Women’s Mountain Surf Bibs at Crested Butte Mountain Resort.
Snowsports Editor Morgan Tilton testing the Jones Women’s Mountain Surf Bibs at Crested Butte Mountain Resort; (photo/Eric Phillips)

Price

Depending on how often you hit the slopes, price is a factor. If you’re still starting out in a snowsport or only make it to the mountain a couple of times a year, consider a more budget-friendly bib.

As you gain experience, you can always invest in a higher-quality bib that will ultimately perform better and last longer on the mountain season after season.

If you mostly backcountry ski or splitboard, your bibs will likely experience more abrasion due to wearing a loaded pack with a hip belt, transitioning with the equipment, being exposed to the elements without shelter, or operating a snowmobile (and trailer) for access.

In that case, we recommend investing in a bib that is more durable (and often pricier) like the Ortovox 3L Deep Shell Bib Pants ($650), which will help protect you and keep you comfortable in the backcountry.

female splitboarder bootpacking up a backcountry slope
Snowsports Editor Morgan Tilton testing out a set of Strafe bibs in the backcountry; (photo/Eric Phillips)

FAQ

Bibs are great at one thing pants just can’t do — keeping snow, moisture, and cold wind out from your waist up. With better protection and greater adjustability than ski pants, bibs are an excellent investment for those who ski or snowboard in a wide variety of conditions.

They’re also great for those looking for more coverage or more features such as larger or more pockets. (Bibs usually have more pockets!)

A ski bib should be not too restrictive, leaving room for movement in your hips and legs. However, you should also make sure the ski bib you pick is the right size and fit for your height and easily adjusts up top.

The best bibs will also have a good stretch in the waist/chest area. All the bibs we’ve reviewed here fit well and offer good adjustability in the suspenders/straps.

female skier tightening strap on ski bibs
The Patagonia Powder Town Bibs have smooth suspenders that are easy to adjust; (photo/Jason Hummel)

Regular, non-insulated ski bibs are a protective, waterproofed fabric. Insulated ski bibs are the same, but with insulation added for warmth. The insulation is usually a synthetic fiber like PrimaLoft insulation, which is the standard in many ski bibs. Though sometimes the insulation is a natural fiber such as wool, which is also breathable and integrated in the Ortovox 3L Deep Shell Bib Pants.

Do you need pants with insulation and how much? The answer all depends on what type of skiing you are doing and where. How cold is it on an average day? Will you be traveling uphill, shoveling a bunch of snow, or taking the ski lift at resorts? In other words, do you expect to be frequently sedentary? In which case, your body temperature may drop, such as on the ski lift or while getting the kids booted up in the parking lot.

You may want to buy a cold-weather-specific insulated pant for those really frigid days on the mountain and a non-insulated shell pant for warmer days. Especially if you tend to run cold, consider insulated options.

Let’s face it — you may not think about bib insulation while making turns on your favorite run. But when faced with -10-degree windchill on a chairlift, suddenly you’ll be wishing for some extra warmth on your bottom half.

RECCO is an avalanche safety system used by ski teams and rescue professionals to help find people who are misplaced. They could be lost in the woods, delayed due to broken gear, experiencing an injury, or trapped beneath snow due to an avalanche. It’s a great additional safety tool to have in an emergency.

The first part of the system is a reflector that is placed into outerwear apparel or gear to help a skier or rider be detected. A RECCO reflector doesn’t transmit any signals or need any batteries. A RECCO detector transmits an active signal, with a range of up to 120 m through the air and 10-20 m through the snow.

Note that a RECCO reflector does not replace an avalanche transceiver, also known as an avalanche beacon. If you plan to go into the sidecountry such as out the boundary gate at your local ski area, or into the backcountry, be sure to wear and know how to use your avalanche transceiver. Likewise, be sure your ski partners wear and know how to use their avalanche transceivers.

Ortovox 3L Deep Shell Bib Pants - drop seat zipper
The drop seat is sizable on the Ortovox 3L Deep Shell Bib Pants; (photo/Morgan Tilton)

Just like wearing a ski jacket and snow pants, you’ll want to pull on base layers underneath a bib. If it’s colder weather, you might pull on a light fleece jacket over your base layer top and beneath the bib. If it’s super cold out, you may even want to add on a light, streamlined puffy.

We recommend trying on a bib with your most-used layers before purchasing if possible.




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