Thinking about investing in a technical ski bib and shell? Consider Columbia’s new backcountry ski kit, launching this fall.
Columbia has long made downhill ski apparel in a broad range of prices. From entry-level like the ever-popular Bugaboo Ski Pant to pinnacle Summit Series kits, the brand has a reputation as a solid value for good products.
Now, Columbia is taking it up a notch in terms of performance. The brand will launch its first-ever technical backcountry ski shell and bib this fall. I tested the full kit during a short trip to Aspen Mountain.
Note: I tested the women’s shell and bib, but there is a men’s kit launching as well.
The Peak Pursuit 3L Shell
The Peak Pursuit collection includes a three-layer shell, a fleece midlayer, and a high-waisted bib. Aspen Mountain was a great location for testing, as there is a large percentage of technical terrain inbounds but also plenty of out-of-bounds skiing in the back bowls.
Just trying it on, I loved the look and feel of the shell. In terms of garment tech, Columbia definitely pulled out all the stops with its shell to rival others on the market.
The shell has Columbia’s in-house Omni-Tech technology, a waterproof, windproof, multilayer, breathable membrane. Both the shell and bib have RECCO, a passive reflector sewn into garments to help rescuers detect a buried skier in the event of an avalanche.
Compared to the brand’s other in-house fabrics, this one is best for light-to-medium snow and moderate activity — common backcountry skiing conditions. It will keep you dry but will also release heat when you’re working hard.
The shell is fully seam-sealed and has perks like a ski pass-specific pocket, snap powder skirt, underarm venting, and more. It even has a little zippered vent in the hood for cooling off and better periphery.
The Peak Pursuit Bib
The Peak Pursuit Bibs are non-insulated, waterproof-breathable shell pants. They have long zips down the side of the pant for venting and easy entry. The suspender bibs are also detachable. Coupled with the side zips, they make it easy to use the restroom.
The men’s kit uses a pant instead of a bib, but the materials and build are similar.
![Columbia Peak Pursuit ski kit mens Columbia Peak Pursuit ski kit mens](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2020/02/peak-pursuit-kit-mens-700x477.jpg)