Buyer's Guide for Snowboarding Jackets

Buyer's Guide for Snowboarding Jackets
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The snowboarding jacket is an essential piece of riding gear. It should keep you warm while allowing the mountain air to absorb your perspiration. Snowboard jackets are often tailored for a specific riding condition. Top-rated snowboard jackets feature a removable inner liner that enables you to remain comfortable during warm weather days on the slopes.

Cold-Weather Jackets

Snowboard jackets designed for cold weather conditions feature an inner layer of insulation. According to Snowboards.net, the insulated layer of the snowboarding jacket is often made of fleece, a down material or a synthetic fabric known as primaloft. Entry-level models often have the layer of insulation sewn in to the interior of the snowboarding jacket. The insulation of the snowboarding jacket is often measured in grams. The higher the grams, the warmer the jacket will be.

Warm-Weather Jackets

Snowboard jackets designed for warm-weather conditions are often referred to as shell jackets. Warm-weather snowboarding jackets are not equipped with an internal layer of insulation. The outer layer of the shell snowboarding jacket is constructed of a waterproof and windproof fabric that is woven together tightly. The lightweight design of the shell jacket offers increased maneuverability during freestyle maneuvers. Snowboarders that are warm natured often prefer the breathable design of the shell jacket.

Additional Features

While entry-level snowboarding jackets feature a simplistic design, high-end models are equipped with a few special features. Both cold- and warm-weather jackets often feature an elastic snow skirt that fits around your waist. During the event of a fall, the skirt will prevent snow from entering through the bottom of the jacket. Certain snowboard jackets feature a versatile design that allows you to remove the hood. For extra protection, top-rated jackets feature storm flaps that prevent cold air some blowing through the zippers.

Budget

Consider your budget before buying a snowboarding jacket. While entry-level jackets do not feature the bells and whistles of high-end models, they will keep you just as warm throughout the day. However, inexpensive snowboarding jackets may only last one season on the slopes. According to "Snowboard" magazine, entry-level snowboarding jackets usually cost around $100 as of time of publication. High-end snowboarding jackets can cost upwards of $500. While these models don't come cheap, they are guaranteed to last for multiple seasons.

References

Article reviewed by Jessica Lyons Last updated on: May 6, 2011

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