Montec Arch
The Arch checks all the boxes for a technical bib pant, including five pockets with rain-protected zippers. Two inner-thigh vents are on the small side for moving air in a hurry, but the mesh barrier inside means you can safely ski with the vents open, for long-term cooling. How much cooling you need will depend on if you choose the shell or insulated versions. Medium-weight insulation (40g) adds a measure of comfort on cold days, but the design’s roomy cut maintains mobility. Down at boot level, the cuff is hemmed with durable ripstop nylon and a panel of the same material rises up the inner shin area to protect against errant edges from the inner ski. The ankle zipper is gussetted with a wedge of fabric, so you can unzip to rock a bell bottom look. All fabric and insulation is recycled polyester, sourced from repurposed plastic bottles, to reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions.
$330, montecwear.com
Giro Taggert Mips
Minimal design with maximum protection seems to be what Giro was going for with the lightweight Taggert Mips. No bulbous brain bucket, the profile is sleek with a soft chine leading into a slightly flattened dome. The forward venting is limited to two discreet brow vents, but channels in the foam body distribute a cooling flow through to the back exhaust ports. Mips protection comes by way of a plastic insert between the fabric liner and foam body. The slippery insert has some play in it and minimizes rotational forces that would otherwise be transferred to your brain. In-mould construction means the inner foam is fused right to the polycarbonate inner shell, for a more durable and solid-feeling lid. Three sizes fit heads from 52cm to 62.5cm and the size can be fine-tuned, while wearing gloves, thanks to a large backband dial. $200; giro.com
Faction Studio
Designed in collaboration with Faction’s athletes, the Studio is a twintip ski intended for high-speed skiing. It has a reinforced wooden core, stomp pads to soften hard landings and carbon construction to keep the weight down. From$800; ca.factionskis.com
