Downhill Ski Pants

Snow bibs vs. snow pants

Snow pants (also called ski or snowboard pants)

• Secure around your hips and waist
• Can pull on and off quickly, making bathroom breaks easier
• Gaps at waist may let snow in

Bibs

• Ride higher, covering your upper body and secured by shoulder straps
• Comfortable loose feel
• Snow is less likely to enter at your waistband
• May take time to familiarize yourself with unzipping for bathroom breaks

Features

Insulated

• Choose insulated pants for sledding, if you run cold or downhill skiing or snowboarding at resorts

• Skip insulation if you run warm or are doing highly aerobic activities like cross-country skiing or backcountry skiing; look for stretchy fabric

Waterproof

• Many snow pants are fully waterproof
• A water-resistant pair will do fine if you ski in cold, dry climates