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Choosing the Right Bib for You: Men's 2022/23

By Katherine Donnelly on

As you may have already heard, TREW Gear is known for bibs. Our origins began with the idea for better bibs back in 2008, and here we are today still designing and selling some of the best frickin' bibs you'll ever put on. 

Your TREW Bib Options

TREW Gear was originally built around the TREWth Bib Classic - our award-winning men’s ski and snowboard bib pants - and they’re still the best powder-riding snow bibs the world has ever seen. You'll find these long-time favorites listed as the TREWth Bib Classic across our digital shop.

Over time, our preferences and tastes have inevitably evolved, and so we introduced our Capow Bib in 2017 for those looking to push their alpine limits even further now have the backcountry touring and guiding.

In 2021, we added a 2-layer shell option to our bib lineup: the Jefferson Bib. Touting a super comfortable 2L fabric, a snowboarding-inspired style that looks just as good as it feels, and offering a long list of features to make it your go-to choice for any day, the Jefferson Bib is a worthy addition to our already impressive men's outerwear lineup.

And finally, brand new for the 2022/23 season, we're taking the TREWth Bibs to the next level with our new TREWth Bib PRIMO. Made from 100% recycled materials and boasting improved durability and all-day comfort, we're so excited to see our flagship bib grow even more with our brand values - blending our love for quality gear + sustainability.

^ CEO Chris testing out the new TREWth Primo in some backcountry powder.

Any of these bibs make great additions to your snow kit, but each model brings their own style, fit, and set of features to the party. Below is a detailed look at what each of these bib options tout and what you should consider when choosing the right bib for you!

First, let's quickly talk about 2L vs. 3L. 

As mentioned above, the new Jefferson Bib is a 2L (or 2-layer) option....but what does this really mean, and how does it compare to the TREWth and Capow Bibs, which are both 3L? Here's what you need to know:

While we could talk bibs for days, let's dive into the side-by-side comparison and show you just what makes these bib designs shine:  

The TREWth PRIMO

The TREWth Classic

The Capow

The Jefferson

MATERIAL

Shell Material

3L PNW Primo Fabric 

100% Recycled

3L PNW Classic Fabric

3L Dermizax EV 

2L PNW Fabric

Waterproof + Breathability Rating

20,000mm Waterproof/Breathable (20k/20k)

20,000mm Waterproof/Breathable (20k/20k)

20,000mm Waterproof/15,000mm Breathable (20k/15k)

Insulation

None

Fabric stretch

Mechanical stretch for all-day comfort

Little to no stretch in the fabric

Stretchy as can be

Mechanical stretch for all-day comfort

FIT + SIZING

Fit

Modern freeride/relaxed; a wider (baggier) leg

A more streamlined, slim-legged fit

Freeride fit; looser, more relaxed fit throughout

Inseam options

Short (30”)

Regular (32”)

Tall (34”)

Short (30”)

Regular (32”)

Tall (34”)

Short (30”)

Regular (32.5”)

Tall (35”)

No options, just classic grading by size (see size chart for inseam lengths)

Sizing tips

Runs slightly large. You may find these bibs to run larger than the same size in other brands.

Runs fairly true-to-size.

Runs fairly true-to-size.

We highly suggest referring to the size chart on the product page before choosing your size.

KEY FEATURES

Strap back design

Racer-back

Cross-back

Cross-back

Pockets

  • Chest zippered storage pocket and beacon pocket
  • Zip hand pockets
  • Flap thigh cargo pockets
  • Chest zippered storage pocket and beacon pocket
  • Zip hand pockets
  • Zip thigh cargo pockets
  • Chest zippered storage pocket and beacon pocket
  • Zip hand pockets
  • Zip thigh cargo pocket (R)

Front zip(s)

No full front zipper, but has a front fly zipper

Center-front zipper for main opening with two-way sliders

Center-front zipper for main opening with two-way sliders

Side zip(s)

¾-length, dual-direction zip side vents w/ top opening on both sides

¾-length dual-direction zip w/ top opening on wearer's right side, large vent side zip on left side

None

Inner leg vents

No inner leg vents

x

x

Beacon pocket

x

x

x

RECCO® reflector

x

x

x

Rubber-tipped cordage zipper pulls

x

x

x

Gusseted crotch

x

x

x

Internal boot gaiters with gripper elastic

x

x

x

Full coverage front and back bib

x

x

x

x

Belt loops

x

x

x

x

SuperFabric® cuffs and kick patches

x

x

x

Cuff reinforcement only; no kick patches

Water-resistant zippers on all exposed openings

x

x

x

x

Adjustable shoulder straps with no-slip gripper

x

x

x

x


Price

$499

$439

$479

$299


The highlights

The best of all worlds.


100% recycled, increased durability, and more stretch in the fabric compared to PNW 3L Classic. 

Everything you need and nothing you don’t.


Durable, waterproof, good looking, and the bib that started it all back in 2008.

Your best friend in the backcountry.


Lighterweight, breathable, and still ready to keep you dry no matter where the skintrack brings you.

Ready for the worst, hoping for the best.


Simple, clean, and rugged - The Jefferson has everything you need to take on the mountains without breaking the bank.


Recommended use(s)

Bomber in-bounds, but backcountry ready. These bibs can do it all.

A true hybrid, with a deep love for the backcountry slogs.

Most at home in the resort!


Bib-Picking Hot Tips from TREW:

The Capow Bib has a slightly slimmer fit. As specified in the above table, there is a noticeable difference in fit between the TREWth and the Capow bibs. For the tall and slender(er) folks out there, and for those with longer legs, the Capow Bib will likely be your new best friend as they sport a more streamlined pant leg and have a longer inseam. 

The TREWth Bib (Classic + Primo) is a bit more burly. If you are known for tagging trees and breaking branches on your way down the hill, the TREWth Bib might be right for you as the PNW 3L shell material in these bibs will hold off abrasions, tears, and rips slightly better than the Dermizax EV on the Capow Bib. 

The Capow Bib + the TREWth Bib Primo has more give. Like your layers with a nice side of stretch? Then the Capow Bib or the TREWth Bib Primo will be your go to, as the Dermizax + Primo shell fabrics move with you more and has more give than that featured in other bibs. We suggest taking this factor into account when choosing your size, as you might be a size up in the TREWth Classic over the Primo or Capow because of the stretch - or lack there of.

The Capow Bib can go resort, and the TREWth Bib can go touring. For those who spend their time between the resort and the backcountry, we have found that many of our customers will chose the Capow Bib, as it is the most versatile and still has great durability and comfort for resort skiing. Some people do choose the TREWth bib over the Capow, but it's hard to give you a solid answer as everyone has their own style and preference. 

Our most popular Men's Bib is the TREWth - and for good reason! The TREWth Bib is a great hybrid option, checking all of the boxes for both resort laps and backcountry tours. If you are going to have just one pair of bibs, this is a great choice - as seen in Best Ski Pants & Bibs for Men by Renoun. 

 

Looking for a bit more guidance?

No worries, we're here for you. Get Fitted + Kitted easily by taking our online quiz, and we'll get back to you with your personal product and size recommendation within 2 business days.

We also offer easy returns and exchanges, so if you order the wrong size or want to change styles it's no big deal to swap out. See our Returns + Exchanges page here for more info.

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1 comment

  • CW Rhodes on

    Good afternoon. I am 5”11 205 all weight in my belly since I took a desk job. Lol I do resort ski and I am looking at the cosmic jacket xL and SnapBack Xl. Does this size sound right to you will use together on the hill and of course separate when needed . Also which bibs and size would you suggest? And if a certain color says pre order how long does that take? Thanks a bunch
    CW

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