Arc’teryx Sabre Relaxed vs Sabre vs Sabre SV Bib — The Ultimate Comparison

Choosing the right pair of Arc’teryx ski pants can make or break your winter season. The Sabre collection—Sabre Relaxed Pant, Sabre Pant, and Sabre SV Bib—is engineered for freeride skiers who demand durability, storm-proof protection, and mobility. But each model is built for different conditions, fits, and skiing styles.

This guide breaks down the technical construction, fit, fabric differences, use-case scenarios—so you can confidently pick the best ski pant for your adventures.

1. Arc’teryx Sabre Relaxed Pant

Overview

The Sabre Relaxed Pant is the most spacious, comfort-oriented option in the Sabre lineup. Built for freeride skiers who want more room to move, more room for layers, and a more modern silhouette.

Key Technical Features

• 3L GORE-TEX (ePE) – PFAS-free waterproof/breathable protection

• Recycled 200D nylon canvas face fabric – extremely durable and abrasion-resistant

• Relaxed fit – generous room through hips, thighs, and knees

• Thigh vents – rapid heat dump during side-country hikes

• RECCO® reflector – added search-and-rescue safety

• Articulated patterning for natural movement

• Large pockets for backcountry gear or resort essentials

Best For

• Freeride and big-mountain skiing

• Skiers who prefer looser, more modern silhouettes

• Cold days when extra mid-layers are needed

• Riders who want maximum comfort without sacrificing durability

2. Arc’teryx Sabre Pant (Standard Fit)

Overview

The classic Sabre Pant strikes a perfect balance between technical performance and all-mountain versatility. It’s lighter and more streamlined than the Relaxed version but still rugged enough for resort or side-country missions.

Key Technical Features

• 3L GORE-TEX (ePE) – stormproof waterproofing and breathability

• 80D face fabric – lighter and more flexible than the Relaxed’s 200D

• Flannel-backer lining – adds warmth without bulk

• Thigh vents for temperature regulation

• RECCO® reflector

• Keprotec™ instep guards for ski-edge protection

• Regular fit – articulated for athletic movement

Best For

• Resort skiers and all-mountain riders

• Those wanting a balanced fit—not too relaxed, not too trim

• Side-country skiers who hike but still want durable resort performance

3. Arc’teryx Sabre SV Bib

Overview

The Sabre SV Bib (Severe Weather) is built for the harshest conditions—deep powder, storms, backcountry adventures, and steep freeride terrain. The bib construction brings full-torso protection and significantly reduces snow intrusion.

Key Technical Features

• 3L GORE-TEX (ePE) – severe-weather protection

• SV-level durability – reinforced insteps and heavy-duty fabrics

• High-coverage bib design – blocks snow during deep powder days

• Adjustable suspenders for fit and layering versatility

• Thigh vents

• RECCO® reflector

• Storage pockets on both bib and pant

Best For

• Backcountry touring and side-country bootpacks

• Skiers who spend lots of time in deep powder

• Cold, windy, or stormy conditions (SV = Severe Weather)

• Riders who want maximum coverage and snow protection

5. Which Arc’teryx Sabre Pant Should You Choose?

Choose the Sabre Relaxed if…

• You like a roomy, stylish freeride fit

• Durability is top priority (200D fabric)

• You run cold and layer heavily

• Comfort and mobility matter most

Choose the standard Sabre Pant if…

• You want the most versatile, everyday ski shell

• You ride both resort and side-country

• You prefer a regular fit—not oversized, not trim

• You want lightweight performance with durability

Choose the Sabre SV Bib if…

• You ski powder, backcountry, or storm days

• You want full-body snow protection

• You like bib-style comfort and secure fit

• Weatherproofing is your #1 priority

The Arc’teryx Sabre line offers three high-performance options tailored for different skiing styles:

• Sabre Relaxed → Freeride-focused durability + comfort

• Sabre Pant → Versatile all-mountain performance

• Sabre SV Bib → Deep-snow, storm-ready, backcountry-tuned protection

No matter which model you choose, you’re getting top-tier materials, precise articulation, and Arc’teryx’s renowned craftsmanship.