Backcountry Cottonwoods Gore-Tex Bib Pant - Men's for Sale, Reviews, Deals and Guides

8.0
out of 10
13 Positive, 6 Mixed & 1 Negative
from 20 Reviews
Retail Price:
$349.95
Used Value:
$209.97
Sale Value:
$314.96
h4{font-weight: normal;}Why We Like ItEven on the deepest storm days, winter finds us lapping fresh lines courtesy of our Cottonwoods Bibs. We built these with everything needed to stay dry in the wettest of snow so that we can explore off-trail in the deep stuff, have our way with spring corn on the groomers, and continue going even when near-blizzard conditions chase everyone else away. Their burly Gore-Tex construction defends against all manners of moisture, even from the inside, and we designed them to integrate seamlessly with the powder skirt on our matching Cottonwoods Jacket, so we stay tight as a drum in the stormiest of weather.
Product Features Construction

Benchmark for waterproof, breathable performanceGore-Tex is a synthetic laminate that features thousands of tiny holes small enough to prevent water droplets from penetrating but large enough to allow water vapor to escape. This combination prevents snow and rain from reaching layers while still allowing hot air and water vapor to escape, managing moisture from external and internal sources. Low-weight breathability for chasing goals3-layer construction is more breathable, more packable, more durable, and lighter than its 2-layer counterpart, so it thrives during strenuous efforts in the worst weather. This construction features a technical laminate attached directly to a face fabric and a backer. Though it’s called 3-layer, the design works more like a single layer that seals out the weather while releasing excess heat and moisture. In this process, the face and backer provide protection while the laminate does the heavy lifting of sealing out water and releasing moisture. Keeps even the sneakiest moisture at bayEven the highest-rated membranes won’t do a whole lot of good if the seams between aren’t defended. We fully seal every seam on our technical outerwear, so melting snow doesn’t find its way into baselayers.
Fit

Modern style with room for layersOur regular fit is built with inbounds resort riding in mind. The cut accommodates multiple insulated layers for the coldest days on hill, while still tapering in just the right places to provide a clean look that’s at home across the world.
Recommended Use

Designed to thrive in lift-accessed terrainBuilt with daily use in mind, our resort-oriented outerwear features a durable and waterproof construction that keeps you covered through changing weather and holds up to daily wear and tear.

Specifications

Brand:
Bib:
zip-off, adjustable suspender system
Claimed Weight:
[medium] 1lb 14oz
Fit:
regular
Gaiters:
internal
Manufacturer Warranty:
lifetime
Material:
[membrane/laminate] Gore-Tex (3-layer), [face fabric] 100% nylon, [lining] 100% nylon, [side panels] 90% polyester, 10% spandex, [kick patches] KEVLAR®
Pockets:
1 zippered chest, 1 mesh chest, 1 zippered hand, 2 zippered cargo
Recommended Use:
all-mountain skiing, all-mountain snowboarding, backcountry skiing, backcountry snowboarding
Seams:
fully sealed
Venting:
zippered thigh
Waist:
hook-and-loop adjustable, snap closure

Full Reviews

10
These pants and bib are awesome! I love having the pockets where they are placed in the bib. I can everything I need for the day within these pockets. The Gore-Tex works great and the Pirate Black color looks sharp. They could be a tad warmer, so as long as you aren't skiing in freezing cold weather, you'll be set.
Dylan Wheeler, backcountry.com
December 23, 2020
10
These pants and bib are awesome! I love having the pockets where they are placed in the bib. I can everything I need for the day within these pockets. The Gore-Tex works great and the Pirate Black color looks sharp. They could be a tad warmer, so as long as you aren't skiing in freezing cold weather, you'll be set.
Dylan Wheeler, backcountry.com
December 23, 2020
8
I wasn't sure about these at first but I'm loving them! I've been looking for a rugged bib that doesn't feel like it's going to be restrictive and these are those bibs. Baggy enough to move freely but not so baggy that they feel like your swimming in them (I sized down in them). The 3 layer Gortex is bomber while still being super breathable. I've been using these for just about everything. They breathe well when touring and keep you dry even if it's dumping out. The amount of pockets on this thing feels insane but you can hold just about anything you'd ever need, even a flask in the chest pocket (if you're interested in that sort of thing). At first I was worried about picking up a bib without reinforced knees but these are tough enough to not need it. My biggest complaint is the mesh covering over the leg zips! I'd prefer if they didn't have them. If you're looking at picking up a pair of these you'll definitely want to size down!
David Okoniewski, backcountry.com
December 22, 2020
6
I’ve tried these on twice now but ultimately returned them both times. I really like the overall design with the zip off bibs giving you flexibility. At least for me, the fit just didn’t work. I’m 5’8” 177lbs with an athletic build and 32-33 waist 30 inseam and have tried the medium The torso was just too constricting for my build. I don’t have much of a belly but I still wouldn’t have been able to fit most of my mid layers under the bibs. The legs also have a bit too trim fit for my liking given these are pretty burly and have no stretch at all. I ultimately chose a different brand 3 layer shell pants with good pocket choices.
Austin T., backcountry.com
December 18, 2020
6
I was excited enough about these based on the specs that I ordered and returned two different pairs to try to find the right fit. The first pair was just plainly too small (my "quarantine 15") but the second pair (an XL for me, size 36 / 6' / 220lb) seemed suuuper baggy. Like beyond what I'd call "resort bibs" baggy. I was actually hoping these would work well for touring (beacon pocket! plenty of vents!) but found the extra material in the legs to almost make it difficult to hike, especially with the thigh vents open (the zippers catch on each other). The other small complaint I had was that the built in belt didn't cinch down enough to make these practical in pants-mode (without the upper bib). This might just be my body but it seems like a solidly mobile fit for bibs = clown pants without the bibs. I ended up doing a tour with a voile strap holding two belt loops together which worked even if it looked a little funny. So overall I think these are adequate for more resort-oriented skiing but seem to fall a bit short for touring. I would honestly consider grabbing another pair of these next year if they can fix a few of the problems.
Scott O., backcountry.com
December 15, 2020
10
I bought these for my husband as his Burton AK bibs are on their last leg. According to him "These are reinforced in more areas than the AK's. They also have the ability to be converted to pants when the temperatures get warm. They seem just as weather proof (both are 3L gore tex)."
Sheila Grindstaff, backcountry.com
November 30, 2020
10
These are a bomber strong gortex bottom. I love how I can make it a normal pant but zip it back together for a reliable bib.
Jackson Webber, backcountry.com
November 20, 2020
4
My husband is 6'2" and 178lbs, waist size 32. He is a Medium in these and most other brands. In the past, he'd be a size large in most brands, but size charts have shifted a bit in recent years. He has a pair of these from a previous year and loves them--perfect fit, great material, great colors, easy to adjust, etc. However, this season's pair seems cut differently...shorter in the leg, shorter in the torso, something is off. We can't figure it out, despite adjusting the suspenders; it just doesn't work.
Monika G, backcountry.com
November 20, 2020
10
Nothing like 3-layer Gore-Tex keeping me dry on the powderiest of days! These bibs are really waterproof, and I like the removable bib for non-powdery conditions. The fit might be a big baggy, but I like it on days that I want more layers than usual. The waistband adjustments are huge and helpful.
Derek Newman, backcountry.com
October 21, 2020
10
I feel that these bibs will take anything I can throw at them, this also makes them pretty warm. Probably the most rugged pant I have ever owned. GORE-TEX PRO is no joke. The fit on these bibs is a little big so I would recommend sizing down. If you wanted something more breathable and lighter I would look for items with GORE-TEX performance. The bibs have an adjustable waist with elastic Velcro as well as Velcro that adjusts bib strap length. I love these pants and would definitely purchase them again. They are great for resort skiing. I fell a bunch trying to land a new trick in deep powder and never got snow up or down them!
johngchrist, backcountry.com
March 16, 2020
10
I have nearly three months on these bibs now. They're rugged, waterproof, and all around awesome. The fit on them is excellent, with actriculation in the knees and crotch that provides mobility for boot packs. The outer fabric is super reinforced along the boots, and durable everywhere else. I also LOVE the myriad of pockets, with several pant pockets of different sizes and shapes as well as two veristale bib pockets for a beacon or a gaiter. These pants are pretty heavy though. They are made with Gore-Tex, which guarantees a waterproof and breathable fabric, but I will still be grabbing my Rush LT pants for touring as those are more breathable and lighter than these bibs. However I will be grabbing these for any big sends I am working towards and for every inbound day for the next couples years. I can trust that the fabric on these pants will hold up to every branch, rock, and edge that might come across them, and I can trust that the Gore-Tex membrane will keep me warm and dry no matter the conditions.
Trevor Livingston, backcountry.com
February 12, 2020
8
Me, I'm 6'4" 235, 35" inseam and 36" waist. Jeans are impossible for me because my thighs create a larger diameter than my waist (anybody who squats heavy understands). I tried the "L" first. The waist fit, but the legs were too tight to function fully. The upper was snug but comfy. I figured I'd try out the XL. Way different fit than the L. The pants portion is now super baggy, but the upper is barely any larger than the L. This would be fine as a bib, but if I plan to use these as pants then I'll need a belt becasue the waist is huge. No possible way the built in velcro belt will sinch down enough. As far as quality, these are top notch. Have been out a few times in them (sledding and skiing) in both dry and wet snow and could not be happier. These are just a shell so it is nice to have a bit baggier to be able to layer on those cold days. 8/10 would recommend. Only 4 stars because the waist is way to big in pant mode vs bib mode.
smw3180066, backcountry.com
February 11, 2020
8
I've been in the market for a pair of bibs for some time now. I am used to splitboarding in Dakine lookout pants which are lightly insulated and really just wanted a shell bib that could zip off into pants when I needed them. I took them on a 4 day hut trip and definitely put them to the test. As far as durability go these are amazing for the price. I was in heavy snow and days where we experienced 40mph gusts and I was not cold at all to my surprise. The weatherproofing is fantastic and also kept me dry I do want to point out a few things. The zippered pocket does not seem to have a hook/loop to tether an avalanche transceiver too. This was pretty disappointing because the promotional videos show a transceiver being stowed in this pocket. I assumed it would be what is usually deemed a "transceiver approved pocket". The transceiver fits but I like having something to tether to. The right large pocket on the pant leg has an elastic band which you could connect a beacon lanyard to if that isn't a deal breaker for you. The reviews are true. They run big. The Dakine Lookout pant is "loose" but definitely not as loose as these however, as a snowboarder, I prefer a baggy pant and I don't think it is overkill. The velcro straps are a nice addition to keeping the waist up with an option for a belt. I have an arcade belt which works nicely with these bibs. I'm a little surprised that Backcountry.com recommended use is "lift accessible terrain". I think these are great for touring in the backcountry and the articulated knee patterns are great for touring. They breathe incredibly well and can handle the abuse of the Colorado backcountry. Also, this is a little hard to see in the promo video. The inner thigh vents are webbed to keep snow from entering the inside of the pant leg just in case you forget to zip them back up on the downhill.
Ben W., backcountry.com
January 19, 2020
6
These are pretty interesting. As other reviews have gone, they are a bit baggy. This was nice for me, as I'm 6'4" and 220 lbs. Seeing backcountry as a company that makes durable items, I bought these to Telemark ski in. This means I'd be doing tele drops in them, and when I tried them on they moved well, even my kneepads fit well under them. Pros: -Waterproofing is great. Very waterproof, even on wet days in the PNW. -Bibs and pockets associated are great, easy for storage and access. Cons: -the button on the bottom of the leg already ripped off on one side. Honesty, they shouldn't even have these. The pant is baggy enough to pull over any ski easily. -The crotch has already ripped through the stitching. This could very well be due to me telemarking, but I wish they would have lasted more than 8 days. As much as these weigh, it would be good for them to put some more heavy duty stitching on all seams. -As I stated before, they are slightly heavy. Now this is only a con because being heavier they should be more durable (as I stated before). Since Backcountry only has a 30 day return policy, I'll be patching them together to keep working, but I hope their design team works hard to improve these in next year's model.
Tyler G., backcountry.com
January 14, 2020
2
I am 5’11” 175 lbs ordered medium. They are a bit short and seem restricting. I unsnapped the lower snap on pant leg to unzip and the snap ripped off! First time unsnapping it lol. For the price I thought the quality should be much better. Will return.
Randy Gates, backcountry.com
December 25, 2019
6
Great fabric, nice and waterproof, feels very durable. Love the pockets and the bib overall straps, more or less a great build with a weird cut. Not sure if i'm headed to the ski hill or a 90's rap music video recording when I put these on. The description says there's room for layers underneath, but I think they went overboard with that room. I could put some fleece layers, some regular snow pants, and still have room for more. I am 6'1 and 190 Lbs. I didnt go with Medium since I feared they would be too short. The larges are too short for me. If I sit down the inner gaiter slips off my boot. These are adequate and they will get the job done, but the cut will stick out like a sore thumb.
Julian Alvarez, backcountry.com
December 17, 2019
6
I'm 6'2" 180 with a 32 waist and got a medium. I loved the features but the cut is terrible. I'm not sure who the fit model was but I'm swimming in these compared to other pants I own. I unfortunately have to return them because they fit so poorly.
randy W., backcountry.com
December 16, 2019
10
I was fortunate enough to be one of the product testers for this item and I give it two thumbs up. I have worked as a snowboard instructor and the uniforms I would wear had a similar Gore-Tex outer layer but this item in particular was much nicer to wear. It is easier to move in than most other Gore-Tex Products. It isn't stretchy but it is more flexible and movable than most of the ski pant's I've worn. It breathes really well and is super waterproof. As one of the product testers I was put into a shower while wearing this with the corresponding jacket doing all sorts of exercises and movement's and did not get wet at all, it was pretty fun to test out. The feature of being able to convert the bibs to pants as well is very unique. When I ski and board I like using the bibs so that no snow gets under my clothes, then when I snow hike it's nice to shed the bib. The amount of pocket space in and zippers is a great addition as well, I feel like I can keep all of my personal effects on me without needing a ski-pack. The vent works very well when you need that little extra breath-ability. Overall these are a must, especially for the price, you cannot beat this Gore-Tex product, It is one of the most amazing pieces of equipment you can have in your winter wardrobe.
Marc Lund, backcountry.com
December 13, 2019
10
I got these as a gift for my boyfriend and he absolutely loves them! At first I was super worried they wouldn't fit because once I took them out of the package, the fit looked a little awkward. The fit was perfect since they are super adjustable and he was able to cinch the waist down pretty well since he's super slim. Lots of pockets for everything he'll need to bring and very flexible as well! Goretex material is great quality! So I know my boyfriend has a 30 waist and inseam is about a 32. At first it might look like the sizing looks off, but definitely remember that the straps are adjustable and you can cinch the waist down as well!
Erica Okada, backcountry.com
December 13, 2019
10
These bibs will definitely keep you warm. When I wear these bibs I don't even layer, just these bibs and a shell. I do run hot though. They are durable. They aren't very stretchy or flexible, better options out there if you want more stretch. I am 6'0, 180lbs and usually wear a size 32 pant. The medium fit me well.
Tyler Mifflin, backcountry.com
December 13, 2019