The Reserve GORE-TEX 2L is Burton's mainline GORE-TEX bib. It sits below the premium AK line in price, and owners often compare the two.
This review covers how the Reserve holds up, how it fits and whether the AK bib is worth the extra money.
What It Is: A GORE-TEX Bib With Stretch
The Reserve uses GORE-TEX 2L, a 2-layer build where the waterproof membrane is bonded to the outer fabric, with a nylon lining inside. It has taped seams, water-resistant YKK zippers, stretch panels and vents.
It is a shell, not an insulated bib. Burton rates its warmth at 0.7 out of 5 and its waterproofing and breathability at 5 out of 5. Burton backs it with a lifetime warranty.
There is also a cheaper Reserve 2L Bib that uses Burton's own 20K fabric instead of GORE-TEX. Most owner reports below cover the GORE-TEX version.
On the Hill: Dry and Warm in the Cold
Owners say it handles cold and wind. One owner spent several hours outside in -5 F and colder with only thin pajama bottoms under the Reserve and never got cold. They rode 5 days in nasty cold and wind and never got cold then either.
A buyer on Burton's site said the bib keeps snow out however hard they fall or however deep they go, and the GORE-TEX keeps them totally dry all day.
Where It Excels
The Reserve shines for riders who want GORE-TEX and a lifetime warranty without AK prices. One owner of the Reserve and an AK Cyclic jacket said the Reserve is well made from heavier fabric, which makes it more durable.
Where It Falls Short
The fabric is heavy. The same owner who praised its durability said the weight actually bothers them sometimes, and they plan to buy AK bibs next.
Pockets are a weak point for one rider. They have owned two Reserve bibs: on the first, the bottom of a back Velcro pocket blew out, and on the second, a front zipper pocket tore at the corner and their keys fell through. They patched it with tent sealant and still ride it.
The fit is snug in the lower body for some riders. One owner said the bibs fit fairly tight and form fitted, not baggy. A rider who tried three sizes said the large was tight through the thighs and hips and limited squatting. Another rider pointed out that Burton also makes a Relaxed Fit Reserve bib.
The "Reserve or AK Cyclic?" Question
You'll find this question in most Reserve threads. Most owners who have tried both say the AK Cyclic is better made. One rider said AK uses higher-end zippers and materials, while Burton's mainline GORE-TEX gear does the bare minimum. Another said Burton cuts corners on its mainline GORE-TEX gear to keep the price down.
Others defend the Reserve. One owner said they don't know how anyone rips them unless they ride the backcountry or are careless.
Here's the take from owners: if you ride many days a season, the AK bib may last longer. If you ride a few weeks a year, the Reserve gives you GORE-TEX and the same lifetime warranty for less.
Who Should Buy It
Buy the Reserve GORE-TEX 2L if you want a dry, durable GORE-TEX bib with a lifetime warranty at a mid-range price.
Look elsewhere if you want a light bib, a baggy fit or the best materials Burton makes.
Alternatives
The Burton Reserve 2L Bib uses Burton's 20K fabric instead of GORE-TEX and costs about $100 less.
The Volcom Roan Bib is a cheaper 15K bib with Zip Tech and a chest pocket. Read our full Volcom Roan Bib review.
Verdict
The Burton Reserve GORE-TEX 2L is a dry, warm, durable bib backed by a lifetime warranty. It is heavy, snug in the hips and thighs for some riders, and owners say the AK bib is better made. For riders who want GORE-TEX without paying AK prices, it is a solid choice.
