The breathability of the snowboarding jacket varies based on the quality of the product as well as the intended riding terrain. While some snowboarders prefer jackets with a more insulated design, others opt for the increased airflow of breathable outerwear. Choose the level of breathability that best suits your riding style.
Winter Riding
When riding in the dead of winter, a snowboard jacket with a high degree of breathability may not be the right choice for you. A snowboard jacket that is too breathable may cause frigid winds to penetrate the inner lining. This will cause your core temperature to gradually drop throughout the day. For extremely cold riding conditions, choose a snowboard jacket that features an internal layer of insulation as well as a moderate amount of breathability. This will help to prevent you from overheating during strenuous maneuvers.
Spring/Summer Riding
Many snowboarding resorts remain open into the warmer months of spring and summer. If you need to wear a jacket, choose a model that features a high degree of breathability. For warm days on the slopes, the Shred-O-Pedia buying guide recommends a breathable jacket that does not feature a layer of insulation. Often referred to as shell jackets, these highly breathable models allow the outside air to evaporate any perspiration that may have accumulated on your skin.
Slope Style Jackets
Slope style jackets are designed for riders that spend their time jumping ramps and sliding rails. Slope style jackets often feature a flexible design that offers increased range of motion. As slope style snowboarding is one of the most physically demanding riding disciplines, you'll need a jacket that is very breathable. Jackets designed for slope style are often constructed of nylon or polyester. To maintain a breathable-yet-waterproof design, the seams of the jacket are lined with waterproof tape.
Backcountry Jackets
If you prefer to ride on the untouched terrain of a backcountry slope, you may want to avoid a highly breathable snowboarding jacket. Backcountry snowboarding, often referred to as free riding, involves gliding through deep deposits of powdered snow. When submerged for extended periods of time, you'll want a jacket with a higher degree of insulation. A moderate amount of breathability is recommends as it will help to prevent your clothes from becoming dampened by perspiration.
Member Comments