The Best Ski Pants and Bibs of 2021
Hard efforts need bottoms that keep up
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Rab Khroma Kinetic Pants ($300)
Comfort is where the Khroma Kinetic shines. The wide waistband makes the legs lie flat, and the woven soft-shell fabric—a flexible, waterproof membrane sandwiched between a wicking inner layer and an outer shell that blocks precipitation—is both protective and delightfully stretchy. A beacon pocket and waterproof zippers bolster utility.
Arc’teryx Sabre LT Bibs ($525)
If they weren’t made of Gore-Tex, we’d wear these pants to weddings—that’s how well they fit. They’re burly, with a 100-denier aramid weave at the cuffs for maximum scuff resistance. But the stretchy waterproof-breathable fabric and ample knee articulation mean they move like athleisure wear. In short, they’re a ski mountaineer’s dream.
Flylow Tannen Bibs ($400)
The Tannen is for people who want resort protection and backcountry breathability. The high-cut waist keeps snow out of your nether regions, while inner and outer thigh vents and mesh-lined pockets dump heat. The lightly brushed interior is comfortable against the skin, ideal for blazing tours sans long underwear.
Outdoor Research Carbide Bibs ($299)
Built for the backcountry, the Carbide is slim but ready to move. The 40-denier waterproof fabric is tough yet light and breathable. Quick-release suspenders, courtesy of adventure-belt company Arcade, make tinkles easy. The right-leg beacon pocket is a bonus.
Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft Pants ($350)
We often give resort pants a pass on breathability and mobility as long as they look cool and keep our butts warm. No longer. Relaxed yet slim, the Alpha LifaLoft is like ski-hill business casual. But with four-way stretch fabric, ample thigh vents, and breathable synthetic fill, it’s shockingly capable on climbs.
The North Face Women’s Team Kit Bibs ($250)
In 1990, the North Face used Gore-Tex to make apparel for its first trans-Antarctic expedition. The all-new Team Kit pairs the original design’s retro looks with modern waterproof-breathable fabric. A clever single-pull adjustment on the left shoulder strap makes for easy fit tweaks.