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Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Hybrid Bib

rated 5.0 of 5 stars
photo: Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Hybrid Bib waterproof pant

The only large style soft shell bibs, these are a great for all aerobic winter activities.

Pros

  • Keeps wind and snow out
  • Water resistant
  • Durable
  • Comfortable

The Dawn Patrol bibs are a really great option for a lot of activities.

They fit pretty tight around the legs, similar to most soft shells like the Gamma MX or the Patagonia Knifeblades or Adze. It has minor adjustments on the hem, but not huge. This means that you can't No gaiter or anything. They can also be adjusted by the shoulder suspenders. It's not much of a huge change though. Due to descent stretch these pants handle dynamic movement really well. Skiing, and climbing I have never had any complaints, even for mixed climbing.


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Ice climbing in Haffner Creek

These pants handle weather really well. The front of the pant takes wet conditions really well. The only time I've had them wet out is when digging a snow shelter with my hot knees in the snow. They are not very water resistant on the backs of the legs so be careful when sitting down. This does make them very breathable though. 

In addition to good construction for breathability, there are two full length zips that run the length of each length, so if you get too hot you can unzip the pant legs down as far as you desire. If you layer right, and use the zippers you'll never sweat in these.

These pants are also tough, and handle anything from skiing to alpine climbing. I've down climbed limestone for hours, toured through trees, and climbing kilometres of ice in these trousers.


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Downclimbing Stanley Peaks Limestone in the early morning.

They do insulate decently as well. I find with a base layer these are good down to -12°, below that I like having a fleece pant as well. The bib is very high and comes to about breast height. This means that there is a good deal of material covering your core. In the event of leaning over, or taking a fall in snow you never expose any skin, which is handy. The extra height also has nearly as much warmth as a soft-shell vest. 

Overall these are really good pants for skiing, alpine climbing, and more. I absolutely love them, whether pulling hard mixed moves, or whipping out in powder isn't a problem either. 

Source: bought via a "pro deal"

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Specs

Price Historic Range: $164.50-$329.00
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