[Review] The Mackenzie Bib by Dakine

Once you go bibs, you never go back! I have wanted bibs for some time and when I think back to my early ski days, I know I hated them but I have a newfound respect for the style. They’re comfortable, easy to get on and off, and they keep any and all snow from making its way down your pants. The Mackenzie Bibs by Dakine are way more stylish than the bibs I wore when I was 5 and I’m glad I’ve come full circle.

Aside from what I thought when I first threw the Mackenzie Bibs on, the fit is spot on. The fit is defined as “tailored” on the Dakine website and they have a bit of shape to them which helps with overall how flattering these bibs are. They are a bit tighter in the thighs and then sort of flare out as they get to the bottom. I have bigger thighs and so I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to move while wearing these. The fabric is forgiving and stretchy and I don’t feel constricted at all when I wear these.

I’m 5’10 and 150 pounds so being a bit taller I was curious as to how these would fit. To my surprise, there is plenty of length! And of course you can adjust the top portion of the bibs for your torso. I feel like the torso portion does sit a little bit lower on me due to the fact that I need and want to the length but it is definitely comfortable.

With the adjustment of the bibs, I really like how they are elastic. It makes for all day comfort and if you get your fitment off just a little bit, the elastic is forgiving and won’t make you miserable and unable to move. The adjusters are “hidden” and so it makes for a clean look yet easy to get to. Make sure that you adjust the little tab on the back of the bibs, as it will help suck the back of the bibs into your back and not allow for extra material where it shouldn’t be.
  There are two lined hand pockets and nice big chest pocket on the front of the bibs so no matter what adventure you’re heading out on, you’ll have plenty of room for snacks and other things. Along with pocket options, there is also a nice tight gusset on the cuffs and reinforcement on the inside leg. This adds to the durability and protection from sharp ski edges or snowmobiles.

The thigh vents are large and in charge and really allow for optimal airflow when you’re skinning in the backcountry or skiing the resort on a warm spring day. With skinning in mind, I’m also impressed with how cohesive the fabric is. I can move all day and in any way and the bibs move with me not against me.

I love the Quick Dry lining that Dakine is using in a lot of their outerwear and it really takes the edge off on those days when you accidentally overdress. When or if you happen to get sweaty, you won’t be feeling it like you normally do. The quick dry lining feels good and does a nice job of drying quickly when you start to sweat profusely.

If you are looking for a stylish, well-performing, and affordable pair of bibs, look no further than the Mackenzie Bibs by Dakine. You won’t regret upgrading from normal pants to the bib style and it will keep you dryer and more comfortable than you’ve ever been before. Also be sure to check out my review of the Weatherby Jacket by Dakine and the Galaxy Gore-Tex Mitts by Dakine (best mittens I’ve ever worn).