Skyline Faze 3L Bib Pant Review

Skyline Faze 3L Bib Pant – Better Than Gore-Tex 3L Pro Review by The Good Ride

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How The Skyline Faze 3L Bib Pant Was Tested
James’ Pants Specs

Size: Medium
Height: 5’10”
Weight 185 lbs
Waist 32-33
Hips 40”
Inseam 30”
Upper Thigh 23.5”
Middle Thigh 21.5”
Calves 16.5”

Fit

When it comes to fit, the Skyline Faze 3L Bib Pant, this medium fits me really well. It’s baggy for technical outerwear, but more loose compared to the more baggy trend lately. My 28 inseam with snowboard boots on fits really well, and it doesn’t look as bunched up as many pants can with my inseam. There is a ton of room for my 32-33 waist, and even being pretty out of shape right now, I’m still more than comfortable with this medium.

Construction

The exclusive Toray Dermizax 3L material for Skyline is super well-made, and this has the stitching density that’s comparable to most really high-end brands. The outer material is very smooth, and it’s the kind of material that sheds water. It’s also incredibly durable, and this 70D material is considerably more durable than Gore-Tex Pro in independent tests. Skyline also reduces seam construction, which does 2 things. It cuts costs and increases reliability, so it’s a better overall choice vs. many high-end Gore-Tex Pro competitors.

Waterproofing/Breathability/Windproofing

Now I haven’t tested the bib pants yet in heavy weather because this season is off to a shitty start, and Mt. Bachelor, my local mtn, hasn’t opened yet. That being said, I did do a 2 hr rain test on the Oregon Coast with the Skyline Fuse 3L Jacket with the same exact materials. It held up like a champ, and the rain never took hold of the outer material in any place. At the end of a 2-hour walk, I found a hose at the front of the hotel and sprayed it on my sleeves to see how it held up. So it’s not a perfect test, and sitting on a chairlift will really stress test it more, but this initial take is super promising.

It also blocked the wet, humid, and moderately cold winds super well, just like a 70D Gore-Tex Pro Jacket would.

I also felt that it was fine for breathability and never felt like I needed to regulate my heat.

Skyline 3L Toray Dermizax vs. 3L Gore-Tex Pro (A Tech Breakdown)

Now, if you want to get into tech and break down numbers, here are the specs from the same independent test.

Gore-Tex Pro 3L ePTFE: 28k Waterproofing/18k Breathability.

Gore-Tex Pro 3L ePE: There hasn’t been independent testing on ePE like older ePTFE, but I’m skeptical of the claims they are making that it’s better now that they removed the toxic but super effective Teflon element from this membrane. Also, the DWR finish is now PFAS Free and requires a lot more re-finishing to keep it as waterproof as the older Gore-Tex Pro.

Skyline Toray Dermizax 3L: 36k Waterproofing/23k Breathability. Toray has been non-toxic and PFAS-free for 40 years, vs. 2 with Gore-Tex/Gore-Tex Pro for 2. The Toray Dermizax 3L material is a lot more evolved than Gore-Tex Pro (old or new), and this is the reason I chose this as my outerwear this year.

So

Pockets

There are 2 small upper pockets above the belt line, and 2 larger pockets below them, which sit well above the knees.

Gaiters/Cuffs

The gaiters don’t have hooks, which I really like, and fit over all the boots I’ve owned very well.

Venting

You have 2 long outer vents but no inner. I personally like crotch venting, but I rarely use either unless it’s really warm/late spring.

Buttons/Fly/Other Features

There are two strong buttons, which is fine. Especially because it runs loose compared to most size medium pants and bibs. There is a lot of room.

Waist Adjuster

There is none, and this, along with no extra belt loops in the front, can be a point of contention for some.

Poop Flap

Waist adjustability is a loss, but this poop flap is a deal maker for me. I do not like bibs for this reason, and to have the ability to keep whatever you put on over the bib when it’s time to drop one out is exceptional. It makes backcountry drops before a drop less cold and uncomfortable. You also have a much easier time for a powder panicked morning porcelain drop before the lifts open.

Liner

The Liner feels like any 3L Gore-Tex Pro liner in terms of being super smooth, but it’s even more durable.

Knee Pads

The Skyline Faze 3L Bib Pant has a knee pad holder for backcountry guides or those who just want a little extra warmth or protection in the knees. I’m considering putting some fleece from an old shirt or a mid-layer just for a little warmer chair lift ride.

Pant to Jacket Interface

You have 3 buttons that hold the fixed pow skirt of the Skyline Fuse 3L Jacket in place so it doesn’t rise up on you.

Conclusion

This is the first time in forever I’m excited to wear a bib. Yes, I wish the Skyline Faze 3L Bib Pant had extra belt loops and an adjustable waist, but I can easily live without both for a poop flap. On top of that, the integration with the Fuse 3L jacket, along with exceptional waterproofing/breathability/durability, is why I chose these pants over any other to spend my season on.