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My first two priorities for bibs are Gore-Tex and uninsulated. Gore-Tex because none of the other waterproof breathable fabrics perform as well and uninsulated so I can pick my base and mid layers to get the right insulation for the day. Uninsulated means no floatation because the foam is insulation. Next is how they fit and is the stitching going to hold up. Last time I bought bibs I chose Cabela's guidewear. That was in 2015 and I still use them at least two days a week from December to April. 4 of those winters I worked at a ski resort and wore them 5 days a week for work plus any fishing or free skiing days. I would buy them again without hesitation. They do have a couple weaknesses. The pockets are made of such thin material that they ripped out after a couple years and the first time you need to take a leak you will realize that the zipper could be better designed.
anyone have the eskimo bibs?
was just browsing UpNorthSports.com and they have some tremendous sales going on now, trying to decide between Striker Predator, Striker Hardwater or Eskimo Legends. Very helpful feedback on this thread so far, now i just need to pick one
I am on my second season with the striker predators. I don’t think they are bulky. Easy on off. The little hand wipe things that turned me off of buying them are actually awesome and I no longer carry a golf towel. Great bibs so far.
Striker Predators are perfect for the NorthEast IMHO! Like someone else said I rarely wear the jacket unless single digits or very windy. When in the 40’s I just wear thin “lounge” pants underneath. Love the knee padding and thicker cordura around the lower legs that sheds the ice and slush kicked up by the auger. Nice to have thicker material down there to hold up to wear and tear too. Don’t think they are cumbersome at all. Just what you want in an ice fishing bib.
RuttNutt, you the guy that tangled with the Rattler? My Predators have worked great for years. Fit is key, best of luck.
Doc, just wondering do the Ice runners have floatation?