You can remove the suspenders and wear them as normal snow pants. I keep the suspenders on so that I don't have to wear a belt. This is a big plus for us snowboarders because a belt would get in the way when you bend down to strap up.The bib does a good job keeping snow from entering my back, and keeping me warm and dry all the time. Highly recommended. I'm 5'10 and got size M. It runs just slightly long for me, about 1 inch too long, but doesn't really bother me as the snowboard boots offsets that.