Black Diamond

Recon Stretch Bib Pant - Men's

The Good and the Bad

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Size Bought:

Med

Height:

5' 9"

Weight:

165

I purchased these pants a couple weeks ago specifically for a trip to Utah. I wanted something that would handle both front side and the back country....as well as something with reinforced gators. I had cheaper Mountain Hardwear pants that weren't reinforced in the gator area and didn't hold out the snow. I really liked the fit of the Recon and they really hold in wet conditions. However, I'm disappointed with the durability. After 3 days of skiing (2 at Alta and 1 in the back country), I noticed that the gators were ripped and giving way. I get that it might happen, but not after a few days of skiing. So, the main reason that I purchased the pants is now out the window. Was hoping for better from these.

Awesome bibs

These bibs are bombproof and comfortable to wear , keeping your dry from rain at the bottom of the mountain to full ice over at the top I highly recommend this product

Great bibs!

Good bibs, sizing runs small and I had to size up. The returns process was not easy!

Amazing waterproofing and super easy

Amazing waterproofing and super easy to layer underneath if necessary

Versatile and Tough

Ridiculously durable and versatile bibs. Primarily used for Ski Touring and Snow Camping, but proved an invaluable piece of equipment on a winter Grand Canyon Trip. In addition to heavy use in infamously sandy and snowy conditions, it was also used to subsidize a torn Drysuit.

Button failed almost immediately

The first day I wore these the button on the boot opening failed. Not a big deal but frustrating

Great set of pants

Very comfortable and warm. I have only taken them out twice but, they kept the wind out and my legs dry. I'm very pleased with them so far.

Too small in the torso

The recon stretch PRO medium fits me perfect. The regular (non pro) recon stretch in medium is noticeably smaller for some reason. Especially in the torso waist area. Im 5’10 170

Great pants, they run small!

I must have a long torso but with the suspenders as loose as they will go I barely get enough room for the crotch in a size L at 5’11”. I weigh 160-165 and am on the smaller side of the M size on the size chart, but NEEDED the L. This leaves the legs long and big which is totally fine when touring or skiing. Really like the big side vents, athletic fit of the upper bib, beacon pocket, chest pockets, etc. Huge black diamond fan, just be wary of the sizing on this one.

Bibs for winter 23-24

I work on mountain and chose these as my go to bibs for the season. The material, dexterity, breathability, and comfort are great. They’re surprisingly warm for having no insulation as well. The pockets are great, too. The one downfall is the sizing. I got a large bc I’m 6’3 with a thin build. The large is too short in the legs and torso but a bit bulky in the waist and chest. I wish they made M-Tall sizes in these because they would be the perfect fit. Overall, very pleased with them but the size is a big pitfall. Keeps them at 4/5 stars.