There’s nothing worse than being on the lake landing a ton of fish and being cold. Today’s ice fishing apparels have come a long way and gone are the days of the big bulky jackets, cotton long johns, old-school wool gloves and socks that get wet and make our hands and feet numb.
Today’s clothing is all about warmth without sacrificing mobility and agility. Keeping in mind that our readers are able to find the perfect match, we carefully tested more than 30 of the most popular ice fishing suits, jackets, and bibs available and then ranked them based on their performance level, quality, and reliability.
Go through our reviewed snow bibs and see which one suits your needs and budget best!
Best Ice Fishing Bibs
01 Arctix Men’s Essential Insulated Bib Overalls
Why it Stands Out To Us
What we love about this product is its multi-functionality and compatibility with various activities. You can use it specifically for ice fishing as well as for skiing, snowboarding, or even rolling around in the snow. The incredible waterproof material ensures that the melted snow won’t seep into the fabric and you’ll remain warm and dry during all your adventures.
Another interesting feature is that the bib is marketed as a men’s product but it was made so women could wear it too. The shoulder straps are adjustable, which means that women can easily customize the bib for a better fit.
Also, for a budget option, the finishing and material are quite impressive. Albeit not the most durable in this list, the bib still feels like a high quality product. The brand also provides a plethora of colors and sizes to choose from, so you’ll get the best fit and also your preferred aesthetic.
Our Experience with the Arctix Men’s 1350
- It’s lightweight, sturdy, warm, waterproof, provides high mobility, and even has elastic sides! It’s true to size and comfortable as well.
- While many ice fishing bibs are limited to only ice fishing, we felt that the Arctix Men’s bib was compatible with quite a lot of situations. The snow can be overwhelming in our fishing area so we’re always trying to stay warm even while doing everyday tasks like taking the dog out for a walk or collecting the mail. We went out in freezing conditions and the bib kept us sufficiently warm even while doing these simple tasks.
- Another feature we noticed was its moisture wicking capabilities. Even after working up a sweat, we found the inner lining of the bib remained dry. This particular quality was especially handy when it came to strenuous tasks such as shoveling snow and lugging around fishing gear across the ice.
- Due to the flexibility of the material, the bib added some much-needed mobility. We could easily bend at the waist while wearing it without feeling any of the usual draft at the back. The best part is that the bib is so lightweight and comfortable, we could casually wear it around without being restricted in our movements. It was almost like we forgot we were wearing heavy winter gear with this bib!
- Even when we subjected the bib to rain, the waterproofness held out pretty well. The pants worn inside did not get wet at all, which was quite an achievement for us hard-ice anglers.
- The bib was exceptional at keeping us warm and toasty. Even in frigid weather conditions, it was great at resisting the biting wind and chill. However, we did feel that a heavier-duty bib would be more appropriate for frequently staying on the ice for several hours at a time.
- The finishing was quite sturdy and this was especially evident when we went on a skiing trip. Despite falling several times in the snow, the stitches did not rip or even come apart in the slightest. The brand did an excellent job of maximising the benefits and usability of the bib within the modest price range.
- The bib also caters to a wide range of individuals with multiple sizes and colors. Sometimes sizing is a big issue with winter outerwear, so we appreciated the variety and how it made our shopping experience smoother.
What We Didn’t Like
- The size of the pockets was a bit on the smaller side for our taste.
What Could Be Improved and Why
- While the 85 grams ThermaTech is quite sturdy, it isn’t ideal for repeated use. While we understand that this is a brilliant deal for a budget option, we would appreciate it if the bib survived a few seasons with heavy-duty use.
- We felt that larger pockets would help make the product more convenient since they could be used to store for items like fishing baits or pliers.
Pros
- True to size
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Waterproof
- Wind resistant
- Warm
- High mobility
- Zips added for boot adjustments
- Not bulky
- Excellent value for money
- Aesthetic style
- Elastic sides
Cons
- Small pockets
02 Arctix Women’s Essential Insulated Bib Overalls
Why it Stands Out To Us
There are very few options out there when it comes to ice fishing bibs designed specifically for women. That’s why we took out quite a lot of time to try and test a few before we decided to present you with the ultimate go-to ice fishing bib for ladies.
The Arctix Women’s bib is well-insulated, flexible, sturdy and waterproof. The convenient shoulder straps make it increasingly easy to adjust the size of the bib for the best fit. The lightweightness allows traveling to be easier as well. Its superior features and reasonable price point make it come out on top in the women’s category. We wouldn’t hesitate to repurchase this bib again if it ripped, but we’re pretty sure we’re all set for the next few seasons.
Our Experience with the Arctix Women’s 1450
- The bib is waterproof, wind resistant, flexible, warm, comfortable and has customizable shoulder straps too! It’s also stylish and true to size, and overall provides excellent value for money.
- We could easily move around due to the flexibility of the bib. The added mobility made it much easier to sit, stand and kneel while on the ice. It was especially useful when we lugged our ice fishing tools across the ice to the fishing spot. We felt that movement was not restricted at all and that was one of the key reasons why it was so comfortable to wear.
- Additionally, the material was sturdy without being bulky. It’s usually difficult to strike the balance between sturdy and lightweight, so we were quite impressed with the overall experience. It was lightweight enough for us to move with ease but also well built enough to provide adequate protection.
- We also tested out the bib in extreme snowy conditions. Even after shoveling for several hours, we were pretty much unscathed. The material does not absorb any melted snow due to its excellent waterproof material. The insides of the legs also remained dry despite being subjected to lots of external factors such as snow, movement and rain.
- The boot gaiters at the bottom seal off boots so that none of the heat escaped and no snow went up the legs either. This ensured that we could retain our body heat and remain warm for extended periods of time in unfavorable climate.
What We Didn’t Like
- Women with bigger hips complained that the size was a bit too snug on them.
What Could Be Improved and Why
- We feel that if some versions of this bib had been created specifically for women with big hips, it would easily solve many size issues. It’s a quick and easy fix, so we hope the brand can make the adjustments for the bib to be more accessible and comfortable for a wider audience of women.
Pros
- True to size
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Comfortable
- Waterproof
- Wind resistant
- Warm
- High mobility
- Elastic gaiters on pant legs
- Lightweight
- Excellent value for money
- Aesthetic style
Cons
- Might not be the best fit for women with wider hips
03 Arctix Kids Insulated Snow Bib Overalls
Why it Stands Out To Us
When it comes to kids, you need to get everything right. Starting from the size, color, insulation and waterproof rating – you’ll need to make sure the bib fulfils every criterion. With the Arctix Kids bib, we had nothing to worry about. It comes in twenty different colors so your kid will get to wear their favorite.
The bib was true to size, waterproof and sufficiently warm. It was a phenomenal deal within this price range. Not only is it suitable for ice fishing, kids can also go snowboarding, skiing or simply wear these to play around in the snow.
Our Experience with the Arctix Kids 1550
- The material is waterproof, wind resistant, warm and durable. It also facilitates high mobility and flexibility.
- One of our team members’ sons wore this bib while they accompanied him on an ice fishing trip. The temperature was in the low 30s and it was quite windy as well. The bib did an excellent job of keeping him warm and dry the whole time they were out on the ice. The kid had no complaints and had a jolly time on the ice for some quality father-son bonding.
- The bib was also incredibly waterproof. When he took off the bib after hours of staying in the cold conditions, his pants were still dry inside. This also spoke volumes about the sweat-wicking capabilities of the material.
- Since it retails for so low, we were doubtful of the quality before we tested it out. The material did not feel cheap at all. We’re sure it will last the kid at least two seasons before he grows out of them and gets a replacement from the same brand. If size wasn’t an issue, he could get away with wearing this one for much longer due to its durability. However, for now, the length is absolutely perfect on him and is even long enough to comfortably fit around his ski boots.
- The bib came with side elastic ribbing that facilitated a snug-fit. Kids tend to move around a lot, so any looseness on their clothing might easily deter their movements. Arctix did a brilliant job of balancing flexibility and thickness in the material, and we couldn’t be happier for any kid who chooses to wear this.
What We Didn’t Like
- We can’t really think of anything to comment on other than the slight bulkiness. We absolutely loved it. Good job, Arctix!
What Could Be Improved and Why
- Since kids will always move around, the fabric could be slightly more lightweight. However, we think that the extra thickness that resulted in the minimal bulkiness was a fair price to pay given how warm it kept the kid.
Pros
- True to size
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Waterproof
- Wind resistant
- Warm
- High mobility
- Relatively lightweight
- Excellent value for money
- Aesthetic style
- Elastic sides
- Long enough to cover boots
Cons
- Could be more lightweight
04 Carhartt Men’s Quilt Lined Zip To Thigh Bib Overalls R41
Why it Stands Out To Us
If durability and insulation are your top priorities, you’ve come to the right place. The Carhartt bib is a mean machine when it comes to keeping you warm and toasty even in the most hostile climate. With its quilt lined and polyester material, it ensures that even the strongest winter can’t shake you from your internal furnace.
If you’re in sub-zero temperatures and need to stay comfortable, this item is a must-have.
Our Experience with the Carhartt R41
- It’s highly resistant to the cold. It’s also durable, waterproof, wind resistant and has spacious pockets.
- Carhartt exceeded all our expectations with this product. If you want a bib to take into Dante’s ninth circle of hell, this is the one for you. The insulation is nothing short of remarkable. The polyester helps lock in your body heat and keeps you warm even if the temperature drops into the low 20s.
- Going ice fishing in frigid weather really put it to the test. We were astounded at how well the bib held out even when it was exposed to sub-zero temperatures. However, if temperatures go up to the 50s, this bib might make you too warm. While it’s perfect for extremely cold temperatures, it might make you feel hot as the temperatures rise due to its advanced insulation.
- The pockets were another super convenient feature. They were spacious, sturdy and secure – consider us thoroughly impressed. They could comfortably hold bait, tools, and gloves simultaneously.
- The material felt high quality enough for us to know this bib would survive for quite a few years. The stitchings were sturdy and the zippers were reliable. We felt that the price was justified for the durability it delivered. This bib will be your best friend for many seasons.
- Another thing we always appreciate in any outerwear is the availability of various sizes. And this one comes in about every size you can imagine. Rest assured, you’ll find the one that’s just perfect for you.
What We Didn’t Like
- The new shoulder strap had hook closures instead of the usual button loops.
What Could Be Improved and Why
- Some users may prefer the button loop shoulder straps over the brass plate clasps. The bib could benefit from going back to the older style as some find that one more comfortable than the new one.
Our Recommendations
- Follow the size chart carefully. Most users feel that the size they order is one size smaller, so you may benefit from ordering one size above your actual size.
Pros
- Highly durable
- Suitable for extreme weather conditions
- Waterproof
- Wind resistant
- Warm
- Excellent value for money
- Aesthetic style
- Elastic sides
Cons
- Some may not prefer the hook closures
- Size may be an issue
05 Frabill Ice Fishing Safety Gear Sporting Goods
Why it Stands Out To Us
What makes this product a game changer is its lethal combination of durability, insulation and well-distributed knee pads. Forget the cold days of banged up knees and ruined stitching because the Frabill is here to remove all your worries with its innovative problem-solving skills.
For the price range, it does a brilliant job of going the extra mile when it comes to warmth and comfort. It’s true to size and is made with 150g 3M Thinsulate insulation, which is highly effective at blocking out the cold and wind.
It’s super sturdy and resistant to breaking apart even with rough and repeated maneuvering. Overall, we felt that this bib was perfect for heavy-duty use for the seasoned angler who can spend several hours at a time on the ice.
Our Experience with the Frabill 2505011
- It’s durable, sturdy, waterproof, comfortable and has well-padded knees.
- One thing that’s crucial to get right when it comes to ice fishing bibs is the fit and size. An ill-fitting bib will usually put a damper on your entire ice fishing experience. However, with the Frabill bib, we had nothing to worry about. My team member ordered a large size and it fit his 6’2” and 190 lb frame splendidly.
- The layering was extremely comfortable. The inside of the bib left enough space to put on extra layers without it feeling overly tight or loose. This feature came in handy, especially in the frosty winds that could plunge us into hypothermia if it hadn’t been for the warmth of the bib and extra layers.
- Another feature we really enjoyed was the fleeced lined pockets. They made for excellent hand warmers due to the impressive insulation. Moreover, the numerous pockets allowed us to easily store all of our essentials, including our fishing baits, knives, and pliers.
- From our previous fishing escapades, we found that ice fishing can really be a nightmare for the knees. It requires lots of kneeling and crouching over hard ice, which means you’re very prone to bruising if you venture out without the proper protective equipment.
- With the Frabill, we were amazed at how well our knees were fairing. The padding eliminated any potential discomfort from kneeling on the cold floor and made for a much more pleasant experience for us.
What We Didn’t Like
- Urinating while wearing the bib was inconvenient for us.
What Could Be Improved and Why
- The lack of a zipper for using the restroom can be inconvenient for men as it means you’ll have to take the bib down to your waist every time you need to urinate. It would be much better if the bib came with a zipper just for this purpose, so the hassle of taking it off could be avoided.
Pros
- True to size
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Leaves room for layering
- Waterproof
- Wind resistant
- Warm even with insufficient layering
- Well-padded knees
- Several pockets
- Excellent value for money
- Aesthetic style
- Durable
Cons
- No zipper for urinating
Best Ice Fishing Bibs – A Comprehensive Buying Guide
1. Different types of bibs
There are various types of bibs available, each specialized for a different climate. Some fishing bibs are suitable for cooler, rainy days and they’ll hardly provide any of the protection you desperately need for ice fishing.
Ice fishing bibs are very particular in their features, which makes them perfect to withstand the frosty conditions you’ll subject them to. Choosing a bib specifically made for your preferred climate will make your experience much more comfortable.
2. Insulation
This one’s a no-brainer. The last thing you’ll want while sitting on cold, hard ice is to lose your body heat. If you’re a hard-water angler, it’s crucial that you retain your heat through whatever means necessary. Your ice-fishing bib needs to be the perfect accompaniment for your fishing trips in the depths of winter.
To avoid frostbite and hypothermia, you’ll have to ensure your bib has enough insulation and resistance to wind. Usually, Nylon bibs and bibs with fleece linings and Thinsulate are the best at keeping you warm.
3. Knee pads
Padded knees are your best friends when you’re ice fishing. Your knees need to be protected while you’re sitting or kneeling or in case you fall. The harsh environment can easily wreak havoc on your joints if you’re not meticulously protected.
4. Waterproof
One of the most important features to look out for is the waterproof rating of your bib. While on the ice, remaining dry is one of your key priorities. If you get wet, you get cold. So make sure you’re aware of how waterproof the bib’s material is before making a purchase.
5. Warm
When you’re on the ice, staying warm is your top priority. With proper insulation, you’ll be able to escape the bitter winter winds and have a great fishing experience. Make sure the fabric of your bib can provide sufficient protection. Polyester and thick fleece linings are great options when it comes to heat retention.
6. Durable
While considering durability, think in terms of the seams and zippers along with the actual material of the bib. All of these components hold the bib together and need to work in unison for you to get the best use out of it. Look out for sturdy and durable bibs with reliable parts that are resistant to wear and tear.
7. Pockets
These may seem like a trivial feature but pockets will definitely make your trip much more convenient. They act as handy storage spaces for your baits, hooks, knives, and fishing pliers. You get to keep all your essentials on your person and that will definitely save you the effort of taking it out of an external storage device every time you need to use something.
8. Mobility
Mobility can be a dealbreaker with ice-fishing bibs. If you’re forced to be as stiff as a stick, you’ll have a hard time on the ice, especially when you have to carry all your fishing gear to your fishing spot whether you are a beginner or a pro.
9. Gender and Fit
Due to the lack of demand for fishing bibs for females, most bibs aren’t designed for them. While most women just use bibs that were originally made for men, we’ve added a pick that was specifically made for women in our list for your convenience.
10. Flotation
This is the feature we hope you’ll never have to use. Ice fishing may require you to go to dangerous environments and sometimes accidents could happen. In the event of slipping in the ice and falling through, the flotation of your bib will save you big time in the water. While not all bibs come with built-in flotation aids, we definitely think it’s a brilliant feature that will come in handy in case of unfortunate events.
FAQs
1. Do I really need an ice fishing bib?
Ans. The shock of standing on a layer of ice can render your limbs useless. To avoid this, fishermen wear ice fishing bibs so that they can stay warm, dry, and protected against the biting chill of the wind and water.
While angling, you’ll have to stay outdoors in the cold for hours on end, therefore you need to maintain your body’s internal temperature. Fishing bibs are made with insulating materials that will ensure you don’t die from hypothermia.
2. What should I layer under my bib?
Ans. Start off with a moisture-wicking base that will absorb sweat easily. You should also wear long underwear. Wear a flannel or sweatshirt and then put on your stealthy ice fishing bib. You could actually combine this with a waterproof winter jacket and a hat on top.
