Montec Arch vs. Fawk pants: Pick the right style for your riding
Looking for a new snow bib this season? The Montec Fawk and Montec Arch are two of the greatest. And if you’re ready to find out exactly what happens in the Montec Fawk vs Arch pants showdown, then read on.
If you’ve come this far, the good news is that you’ve already made an awesome choice, no matter which pants you choose. But in the face-off between the Fawk and Arch pants, is there a clear winner, and is one better for you than the other? Drop in to our one-stop comparison below.
We’ve rounded up a few key differences between these pants. And don’t worry – we’re sort of the experts, ready to walk you through all the important stuff. Keen to check it out? Let’s do it.
Feature comparison table
 |  |
Montec Arch Pants | Montec Fawk Pants |
Designed for | |
Resort riding, off-piste, backcountry exploration | Resort riding, off-piste, backcountry exploration |
Fit | |
Oversized cut | Regular cut |
Entry system | |
Side zipper | Front zipper |
Insulation | |
Lined shell or optional Comfortemp® insulation (40gsm all over) | Lined shell or optional Comfortemp® insulation (40gsm all over) |
Features | |
Elasticated snow gaiters, zippered gusseted hems, zippered and meshed thigh vents, belt-adjustable waist, one-point adjustable suspenders, side zip access, chest pocket, hip pockets, thigh pockets | Elasticated snow gaiters, zippered gusseted hems, zippered and meshed thigh vents, snapper-adjustable waist, one-point adjustable suspenders, front-access zipper, chest pocket, hip pockets |
Technical specs | |
20,000 mm/20,000 g SHIELD-TEC membrane, recycled polyester shell, PFAS-free DWR coating, fully taped seams, 40gsm Comfortemp® insulation, bluesign® Approved | 20,000 mm/20,000 g SHIELD-TEC membrane, recycled polyester shell, PFAS-free DWR coating, fully taped seams, 40gsm Comfortemp® insulation, bluesign® Approved |
Who are they for?
The Montec Fawk is a classic all-mountain bib for everyday resort riding, powder laps, and everything in between. It’s the kind of bib you can throw on for groomer days, storm days, or some serious off-piste lines without ever feeling out of your depth. The fit is snug at the top and roomier lower down, making it an easy choice for riders who want one bib that does it all and it comes in both men's and women’s versions.
The Montec Arch offers the same performance level but with a roomier cut. That extra space makes it ideal for ski touring, long days with lots of movement, or if you simply prefer a baggier silhouette. These pants are built for all-mountain use too, just with extra mobility and layering freedom in mind. Though it is only available in the men’s version, its roomy cut means it’s perfect for women too, just size down one from your normal size.
Technical specs
On paper, the Fawk and Arch are identical in terms of performance. Both use Montec’s 20k/20k SHIELD-TEC waterproof membrane, delivering serious protection from snow, wind, and wet conditions while staying highly breathable. The abrasion-resistant recycled polyester shell is dense and tough, built to handle chairlifts, sharp edges, and long seasons without breaking down.
Both bibs are finished with an eco-friendly PFAS-free DWR coating and fully taped seams to seal out moisture. You can choose between a lined shell and optional Comfortemp® insulation (40gsm throughout), depending on how much warmth you want. Both pants are also bluesign® Approved.
Features
Each bib comes fully equipped for long mountain days. You get snow gaiters to seal out powder, zippered gusseted hems for easy boot adjustment, and one-point adjustable suspenders for a secure fit. They also have a media pocket to keep your phone safe and accessible, which is a must for lift passes and quick photos.
The main differences lie in the entry system and the waist adjustment. The Fawk uses a front-opening design with a zipper and a snap waist, keeping things classic and simple. The Arch features a large side zipper opening, making it easier to layer up or cool down on the move, plus a belt-adjustable waist for added fit control.
Which should you choose?
Is your riding mostly resort-based, and do you like a clean, classic bib with a front opening? The Fawk is a safe bet. It’s versatile, reliable, and perfectly suited to all-mountain riding without feeling overly technical or oversized.
However, if you mix in ski touring or prefer a roomier cut with more thigh storage and easier on-the-go layering adjustments, the Arch makes more sense. The side opening adds convenience, especially when conditions change during the day. Performance between the two is equal, so the decision really comes down to your fit and functionality preferences.
Wrapping up
Both the Montec Fawk and Arch are high-performance bibs with identical technical credentials. You’re getting 20k/20k waterproofing and breathability, a durable construction, and mountain-ready features either way. The difference comes down to fit and entry design. Pick the one that suits your riding style and preferences, and you won’t go wrong.
Need to know more before taking the plunge? Hit us up at crew@montecwear.com, and we’ll be stoked to help!
Check out more Fawk and Arch bib styles from MONTEC
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