The Carbide pants from Outdoor Research are another 3L hardshell bib that can take you anywhere you need to go when paired with a solid layering system. Aside from being another contender for our favorite dedicated touring bib, the Carbide Pants have a great fit and a few unique features that make them an easy choice for looking to optimize comfort and climbing capabilities.
The Carbide Bibs are more akin to a technical layer than a pair of snow pants. They’re not that warm when worn alone, but do a great job of keeping water out, and when paired with a dialed layering system you can trust them in the worst of conditions.
Outdoor Research reached out to Arcade for the webbing suspender straps. The result is a low-profile nonintrusive fit that retains its elasticity over time. As a whole the bib errs on the side of the sleek and slimmer fit that it seems things are trending back towards.
The right side of the bib extends from the top of the chest all the way down to the knee, so it’s easy to get on and off should the need arise. They also feature a two side pockets, a chest pocket, and a dedicated beacon pocket with a clip. These should be considered if you want a perfect shell to round out your cold weather layering setup.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Reasons to buy:
-
Low profile fit on a sleek pair of bibs
-
Non Intrusive suspender straps that are the best in the business
-
Ample pockets with a dedicated beacon pocket
Reasons NOT to buy:
Not warm enough to be worn on their own in most cases
A little more restrictive than other touring bibs in the stride
Specs & Features
- Full side zip that extends to the knee to put it on
- Fully taped seams
- Dedicated beacon pocket
- Integrated power cuff slot on the gaiter
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Reasons to buy:
-
Low profile fit on a sleek pair of bibs
-
Non Intrusive suspender straps that are the best in the business
-
Ample pockets with a dedicated beacon pocket
Reasons NOT to buy:
Not warm enough to be worn on their own in most cases
A little more restrictive than other touring bibs in the stride
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