Hardshell jackets
Product 2021
Woman, Man
The Columbia Powder Chute bib pant is designed for off-piste skiing. We loved this kit which has everything you expect with this type of garment. The only downside is the absence of a waterproof fly zip (but there is a protective flap). The rest is excellent, and we gave it an award.
First, there is the cut, ample but designed with preformed knees. The very wide thigh pockets don’t go down over the knees, so you they don’t get in the way. The design quality is enhanced by stretch material in the axes that marry the skier’s movements.
The other remark that usually has problems on a bib pant is its waist. Here, the Columbia Powder Chute is not too tight around the stomach and the lower back remains protected. The two front pockets are cleverly positioned to keep important items like keys or cash.
The braces delivered with the Columbia Powder Chute Bib pant are soft to the touch and stay in place.
The other strong point with the Columbia Powder Chute bib pant is its ability to open almost fully for long lateral ventilation (double zip) for ski touring for example. Double press studs ensures that the pant doesn’t open unexpectedly.
The reinforcements at the ankles are thin but provide good protection, you’d need to see after some use if they are tough enough. There is adjustable volume to prevent the snow from entering the boot.
The Columbia Powder Chute Bib pant is kitted with a passive avalanche victim Recco system.
The whole thing is waterproof (we didn’t test it in very wet snow), soft and quite lightweight.
This Columbia Powder Chute Bib pant is really pleasant to wear. A technical and practical design, with stretch fabric that respects your movements. Very comfortable, these trousers won the Test4outside.com FIRST Award.
All the Columbia products tested are here.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
Receive your answers by mail. Do you have a particular question concerning the design, use, durability or other about a tested product? We will answer your question personally.
