Without the right gear, the feeling of being cold and wet can quickly diminish the joys of skiing. To keep warm and moisture-free, you must wear several layers of protective clothing. Ski bibs are a common outer-layer alternative to ski pants. Because they offer more coverage than pants, you may wish to purchase a pair for your next skiing adventure.
Significance
Ski bibs are a skiing outer layer designed to provide greater protection against the snow and cold than pants alone. Ski pants resemble overalls, with pants and a protective layer around your torso held up by suspenders or straps. The added coverage makes them ideal for skiing on heavy powder, according to "Skiing" magazine. Ski bibs may be waterproof on the outside and lined with a fleece or wool lining to provide extra insulation. More sophisticated bib forms feature adjustable waists, zip-up sides to facilitate easy bib removal and special hidden zipper pockets to protect valuables or a snack for the slopes.
Layering
Your ski bibs should be the outermost layer of your ski clothing. Dick's Sporting Goods recommends wearing a base layer of long underwear -- typically waffle-weave leggings and a long-sleeved shirt. Second, add an insulating layer made of fleece or wool. Turtlenecks or zip jackets can be protective for your second layer. Your ski bibs compose the third layer and will protect your lower body and midsection. You will likely wear a coat over your bibs, but this is not always necessary.
Fit
Properly fitting ski bibs offer better protection and increase your comfort. When shopping for ski bibs, it's important to try several pairs on and adjust the suspenders when applicable. This can help you determine if the bibs are right for you based on your height and body type. You may wish to bring an underlayer of clothing and boots to simulate the actual clothing you will wear under your ski bibs. The best options have strong, durable suspenders, several pockets for storage and reinforcement at the knees and seat in case a fall occurs.
Fabrics
Ski bibs are available in a variety of fabric options -- determine the best one for you based on your price range and the type of skiing you do. Nylon or polyester styles feature tightly woven fabrics to protect water from seeping into your bibs. These tend to be less expensive than their microfiber counterparts, which are woven even more tightly for added protection. Microfibers tend to make the pants more waterproof and wind resistant. Special waterproof coatings also can be added to repel water. These coatings tend to be proprietary for the manufacturing company producing the ski bibs. Ask your ski store professional for recommendations concerning the water and wind protection level if these are a factor on the slopes you ski.
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