North Face Freedom Insulated Pant (NF0A5ACY) Womens 2024

Pants vs Bibs

Pants have a traditional waistband. Bibs add shoulder straps that hold the pant up over your base layer, eliminating the gap at your lower back when you bend or fall. Bibs are warmer and drier in deep conditions; pants are easier to take on and off and breathe better when you warm up. Both work great for resort skiing and riding.

Fit & Layering

Most ski pants and bibs are designed to layer over a base layer, with room for a thin fleece or insulated mid-layer in colder weather. If you run cold or like to layer thick, size up by one. The brand size chart is more reliable than the generic XS-XXL label since bib and pant cuts vary brand to brand.

Inseam Length

Pants should sit slightly bunched at the boot, not riding up. Many brands offer a short, regular, and tall option. Tall riders six-foot-two and up usually need the tall length. Check the inseam measurement in inches on the brand size chart before ordering.

Waterproof Ratings (mm)

Pants are rated by how much water pressure the fabric can withstand before leaking, measured in millimeters. Higher numbers mean more waterproof.

5,000 to 10,000 mm. Light to moderate snow. Fine for cold, dry climates and resort skiing.

10,000 to 20,000 mm. Heavy snow and wet conditions. The sweet spot for most riders in the Midwest and Northeast.

20,000 mm and up. Backcountry, all-day storm days, and heavy precipitation. Often overkill for inbounds resort use.

Breathability (g/m²)

Measures how much moisture vapor passes through the fabric per square meter per 24 hours. Higher numbers mean less sweat build-up on warm spring days or hard-charging laps. Look for 10,000 g/m² or higher if you tend to ski hot.

DWR (Durable Water Repellent)

A coating on the outer fabric that causes water to bead up and roll off rather than soak in. DWR wears off over time but can be reproofed with a wash-in treatment (Nikwax, Grangers) every 10 to 20 days of use.

Free ground shipping on most orders over $50. 14-day return policy on unworn items with tags attached, in original packaging. Full policy.

Questions about fit or layering? Call (614) 848-6600 or email aspenskiandboard@gmail.com.