Snow Pants vs. Bibs: Which Are Better?

This product is not available. Good news: we have a newer version.
Warm and waterproof, the Freedom Low-Rise Boot-Cut insulated women's pants are ready for the season ahead, from the sledding hill to endless days of pow.
Shop newer versionImported.
View the The North Face Freedom Product LineView all The North Face Women's Downhill Ski Pants| Best Use | Snowboarding Downhill Skiing |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Nylon |
| Lining Fabric | Polyester taffeta |
| Windproof | Yes |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Type of Waterproofing | HyVent 2-layer waterproof breathable laminate |
| Insulated | Yes |
| Insulation Type | Synthetic |
| Insulation | Heatseeker polyester fibers |
| Side Cargo Pockets | Yes |
| Inseam (in.) | 32 inches |
| Gender | Women's |
Adding a review will require a valid email for verification
While I am generally happy with these snow pants I gave it a 3 star because 1) on a day where there was light rain on the ski slopes the water that collected on the chairlift seats soaked through the pants when I sat down, making them damp. It's not like the seat of the pants was already abraded as this was the first time I had worn them. Despite the water soaking through I was not cold so they were well insulated; and 2) the inseam is a little short, making it abit of a snug fit pulling them up over the hips but once in place and zipped up they fit perfectly. In regards to the lack of waterproofing in the seat of the pants, I just won't wear them on a day where it looks like it might rain. So overall I like these pants.
I was so hoping these snowpants would work for me but they barely fit around my thighs. If you have any muscle on your thighs or even a little extra "padding" in that area, these might be tight on you too. Also, bell bottoms might be a better description than boot cut. Sadly these colorful pants are going back and my search continues. I love the vents though!
Pant is overall well constructed, and attractive. Maybe a better pant for snowboarding than skiing. Pant fits large and loose on me. I purchased a small, but could not go down a size because they would be too short. I am 5'9, and 128 lbs. Bottom of pants are kind of annoying. They are a bell bottom, and the thick, slick material makes a loud swish when you are walking in them. Really wanted to like, but can't see myself wanting to ski all day in a pant that feels so bulky.
I've only had the opportunity to wear these twice since I got them to go downhill skiing. They've kept me warm but not too hot. I haven't gotten to use the inner thigh vent zippers yet. They fit well. The only minor thing is that they swish when you walk...not big deal.
I have the spicy orange version of these pants, and so far this season they have been great! They fit great and dont feel too bulky, and are a good length. The orange is VERY bright, which I love!