**Is Your Snowboard Jacket Tough Enough to Outsmart Mother Nature?**
As snowboarders, we all know that the most important piece of equipment we own is our snowboard jacket. It must keep us warm, protect us from wind and snow, and be durable enough to withstand the harsh conditions we encounter on the mountain. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which jacket will best meet our needs.
In this blog post, we will discuss the key features of a snowboard jacket that are necessary for it to outsmart Mother Nature. From waterproofing to breathability, we will break down each component and provide recommendations for the best jackets available on the market.
### Table of Contents:
1. Waterproofing
2. Insulation
3. Breathability
4. Seams
5. Zippers
6. Pockets
7. Hood
8. Fit
9. Conclusion (Better suited title at the end)
10. Frequently Asked Questions
### 1. Waterproofing
The most important feature of any snowboard jacket is waterproofing. The last thing any snowboarder wants is to be soaked to the bone when they are out on the mountain. A jacket’s waterproofing is measured by its ability to resist water penetration.
The level of waterproofing is measured in millimeters of water that the jacket can withstand before it begins to leak. The higher the number of millimeters, the more waterproof the jacket is. A good rule of thumb is to look for a minimum waterproof rating of 10,000mm.
Some jackets are also treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating to help water bead off the surface. This ensures that the waterproofing is not compromised over time.
Recommended Jackets:
1. Burton AK 2L Swash Gore-Tex Snowboard Jacket
2. North Face Summit L5 Gore-Tex Pro Jacket
3. Patagonia Snowshot Snowboard Jacket
### 2. Insulation
The next important feature of a snowboard jacket is insulation. Insulation is what keeps us warm when the temperatures drop.
There are two main types of insulation: down and synthetic. Down insulation is made from the soft under feathers of ducks and geese. It has excellent heat retention but is not ideal for wet conditions. Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is made from man-made fibers and is designed to stay warm even when wet.
The amount of insulation you need depends on how cold it is where you will be snowboarding. If you ski in extremely cold temperatures, you may need a jacket with more insulation.
Recommended Jackets:
1. Volcom Guide Gore-Tex Insulated Snowboard Jacket
2. The North Face ThermoBall Eco Snow Triclimate Jacket
3. Columbia Wild Card Interchange Jacket
### 3. Breathability
While keeping warm is important, it’s equally important to stay dry. A breathable jacket allows sweat to evaporate away from the body, which keeps you dry and comfortable.
The breathability of a jacket is measured in grams of water vapor that can pass through a square meter of the fabric in a 24-hour period. A good range for breathability is between 5,000-15,000 grams.
Recommended Jackets:
1. 686 GLCR Hydra Thermagraph Snowboard Jacket
2. Arc’teryx Sentinel LT Shell Jacket
3. Oakley Division BioZone Insulated Snowboard Jacket
### 4. Seams
Another important component of a snowboard jacket is the seams. The seams are where the fabric has been stitched together, and they are one of the most vulnerable areas for water to leak in.
There are two types of seams: taped and critically taped. Taped seams are when the seams are sealed from the inside with waterproof tape. This is a good option for jackets that will be exposed to a lot of moisture. Critically taped seams are when only the most vulnerable areas are taped, leaving the rest of the seams to hold the jacket together.
Recommended Jackets:
1. Flylow Gear Lab Jacket
2. Helly Hansen Alpha 3.0 Jacket
3. Dakine Wyeast Snowboard Jacket
### 5. Zippers
Zippers are another important component of a snowboard jacket. They allow us to easily open and close our jackets, which is great for regulating our temperature.
Zipper quality is important because it determines how easily the zipper can be opened and closed. Poor quality zippers may break or get stuck, which can be frustrating when you’re on the mountain.
Recommended Jackets:
1. Volcom L Gore-Tex Snowboard Jacket
2. Roxy Shelter Snowboard Jacket
3. Burton AK 3L Hover Gore-Tex Snowboard Jacket
### 6. Pockets
Pockets are a convenient feature for a snowboard jacket. They allow us to store our essentials and keep our hands warm when we’re not wearing gloves.
The number and location of the pockets can vary by jacket, so it’s important to consider what you need. If you like to bring a lot of gear with you, look for a jacket with plenty of pockets.
Recommended Jackets:
1. K2 Shredtown Anorak
2. Quiksilver Forever 2L Gore-Tex Snow Jacket
3. O’Neill Women’s Spell Snow Jacket
### 7. Hood
A hood is another important feature to consider when purchasing a snowboard jacket. It can protect your head and neck from the wind and keep you warm on chilly days.
Some hoods are detachable, while others are built into the jacket. Some hoods can also be worn over a helmet, which is great for extra protection in case of a fall.
Recommended Jackets:
1. DC Spectrum Snowboard Jacket
2. Armada Whit Pant
3. Picture Organic x Finisterre Kodach Snowboard Jacket
### 8. Fit
Finally, the fit of a jacket is a crucial consideration. A jacket that is too big can allow cold air to seep in, while a jacket that is too small can be restrictive to movement and uncomfortable to wear.
When trying on a jacket, make sure to move around and lift your arms. A good fit should allow you to move freely without feeling constricted.
Recommended Jackets:
1. ThirtyTwo TM-2 Jones Snowboard Jacket
2. Adidas Riding Snowboard Jacket
3. Burton Gore-Tex Radial Snowboard Jacket
### A Final Word
Investing in a good snowboard jacket is essential for a comfortable and safe ride. Make sure to consider the key features discussed in this article as well as your personal needs and preferences. Happy shredding!
### Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the best material for a snowboard jacket?
A: Gore-Tex is often considered the premier material for snowboard jackets due to its waterproof and breathable properties.
2. How often should I wash my snowboard jacket?
A: It’s recommended to wash your snowboard jacket once per season, or more frequently if it becomes heavily soiled or smelly.
3. What’s the best way to care for my snowboard jacket?
A: Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer, but in general, avoid using fabric softeners or bleach and hang dry instead of using a dryer.
4. Are there jackets specifically designed for women or men?
A: Yes, there are snowboard jackets tailored to fit more closely to either men or women’s bodies.
5. How do I know if a jacket is warm enough for me?
A: Check the insulation rating and consider the temperatures you will be snowboarding in. If you tend to get cold easily, look for a jacket with higher insulation.
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