Waterproofing
As expected, the Powslayer bibs had excellent waterproofing. I experienced a variety of snow conditions throughout the season, including some very wet Southern Colorado blizzards in the spring. Despite spending long periods of time in very wet conditions bordering on rain (that would have soaked typical 10k/10k outerwear), I never felt wet, and the DWR never wetted out. All the zippers are waterproof, and I haven’t had any issues with water getting through closed zippers.
Breathability
The breathability of the PowSlayer bib was also incredibly impressive. Riding in warm, spring conditions was completely comfortable. The long vents, located on the outside of legs, were ideal during tours—I could just pull them all the way open for the duration of the ascent and enjoy maximum venting and airflow (impossible to attain with inseam vents typically seen in snowboard pants). Additionally, the rear of the bibs fastens to the shoulder straps with a button snap, making backcountry bathroom stops simple and easy.
To sum it up, these were by far the best pants I’d ever ridden in terms of waterproofing and breathability.
Warmth
The paper-thin shell fabric of the PowSlayer bibs allows for a lot of flexibility in layering, which I really appreciated over the course of the season, particularly at higher temps.
On a colder day, around 10 degrees F (-12 C), I’d wear some thicker fleece pants as my only layer, adding a lightweight base layer underneath on really cold days. On 20–40-degree F (-6 to 4 C) days, I’d wear Patagonia Capilene 4 pants underneath, and on really hot days, I’d just wear athletic shorts. The thinness of the fabric definitely necessitates thicker layering than in a typical 2L shell pant with a mesh lining, but that didn’t bother me at all.
Durability
After a full season of hard riding, the Powslayer bibs have proven to be very durable. Multiple tree encounters and an entire season of abuse have done little to the Pro Shell fabric. I’m impressed.
Bottom Line
If the Patagonia Powslayer bibs seem insanely expensive, keep in mind that they are also insanely lightweight, waterproof, breathable, and durable bibs, a great option for someone who wants maximum performance both in-resort or backcountry. They have a few quirks in their fit and design, but that didn’t stop me from wearing them every day, all season, when I had several options to choose from.
Also not a big fan of the fit, to me the bibs are “short” in a short, regular, long… I’m pretty short and I use the small 32-inch waist / 30 inseam. I can see a large being baggy on you… but you are much taller! I wish patagonia had short, regular and long version, I think it would get more people to pay the premium price of the bibs!
Had the 2012-13 model of the Pow Slayer and it was junk. I liked the fit and the fabric was super light, but after less than a half dozen ski trips the edge guards where cut through in multiple areas. The drop seat zipper worked well but the snaps wouldn’t stay closed and the zippers would slowly come down. I was pissed these bibs were pricey! Patagonia warranted them and the 2013-2014 ARE MUCH BETTER! They added belt loops and better snaps. No cuts in the edge guards after 8 days. Fabric is still light and the fit is roomy. I love them now:)