Should I get bibs or standard pants for backcountry touring?

Bibs are recommended for most backcountry riders, especially those who ride deep powder or tour in areas where post-holing is common. The extended chest coverage eliminates the gap where snow enters during falls or deep snow, provides core warmth, and offers secure chest storage for avalanche beacons and electronics. The main downside is bathroom convenience, but most touring bibs feature drop-seat designs that mitigate this. If you primarily tour in spring conditions with firm snow, standard pants with suspenders may be sufficient.