The following jackets are what I consider to be the best snowboard jackets for men for the 2020-2021 season.
As per SnowboardingProfiles tradition each jacket is given a score out of 100 based on a number of different factors like waterproofing, breathability and functionality.
This list is for non-insulated jackets only, though some jackets in this list might have a lining but no insulation in that lining. There is a separate list for insulated jackets.
Prices have not been taken into account except where scores are equal the lowest price gets the better spot. Also any jacket over $500 has not been considered for this list.
Compared to other Snowboard Jackets
Below are the stats for all of the snowboard jackets that I researched so you can see how the top 20 here compare. Of 52 non-insulated jackets rated:
Note that this list is based on specs only and not by personal experience with these jackets. So this is only going by taking the given specs at their face-value. Style, fit durability and weight haven’t been taken into account.
O.k. let’s get into the top 20
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #20
Jacket: Dakine Smyth Pure 2L Gore-Tex
- CANADA
Score: 91.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Standard
The Dakine Smyth 2L is the cheapest of Dakine’s Gore-Tex jackets. And it’s really reasonably priced – a good bit less than the average price of all the jackets I looked at for this list – and well less than the average for a gore-tex jacket.
Score Breakdown for the Dakine Smyth
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 0.0 | 0/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #19
Jacket: Dakine Sawtooth 3L Gore-Tex
- CANADA
Score: 94/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 25,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Tailored
Next up we have another Dakine offering - the Dakine Sawtooth 3L Gore-Tex.
This is the only 3 layer gore-tex jacket to make this list - 3L options typically cost more than $500 (which was the upper limit I set for this list), but this one was one of the only options to sneak in under that limit.
It's the 2nd of the Dakine options on this list. It boasts a 3 layer gore-tex construction for superior waterproofing and great breathability.
Score Breakdown for the Dakine Sawtooth 3L Gore-Tex
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 5.0 | 25/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 0.0 | 0/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 94/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #18
Jacket: Thirty Two TM
- CANADA
Score: 94.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 20,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Regular
The Thirty Two TM snowboard jacket is one of only 4 in this list that isn't gore-tex. But that's not necessarily a bad thing in this case, with the TM boasting great waterproofing and breathability.
That plus all the functionality you need from a snowboard jacket, makes this a very appealing option, particularly if you're on a budget but still want really good waterproofing/breathability - it's the second lowest priced jacket on this list.
Score Breakdown for the TM
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 4.5 | 27/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 5.0 | 5/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 94.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #17
Jacket: Volcom Stone Gore-Tex
- CANADA
Score: 95.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Standard (relaxed but not loose)
The Volcom Stone is Volcom's first of 4 offerings on this list. It's is a small step down in terms of price vs the BL Stretch (see #15 below), but also has great performance and functionality.
Score Breakdown for the Volcom Stone
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 95.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #16
Jacket: Volcom L Gore-Tex
- CANADA
- UK/EUROPE
Score: 95.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Standard Fit (relaxed but not loose)
The second of 4 Volcom jackets in this list, the Volcom L, is the 2nd cheapest Gore-Tex offering in this entire list (and 3rd cheapest overall for this list).
And not only does it provide the performance of Gore-Tex, it also has great functionality for use as a snowboarding jacket - all without doing too much damage to the bank account.
Score Breakdown for the Volcom L
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 95.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #15
Jacket: Volcom BL Stretch Gore-Tex
- CANADA
- UK/EUROPE
Score: 96.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Standard (relaxed but not loose)
Volcom's BL Stretch 2 Layer Gore-Tex, offers all the advantages of Gore-Tex (great waterproofing and breathability) in a stretchy flexible material that allows more freedom of movement in a more fitting fit.
Score Breakdown for the Volcom BL Stretch
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 96.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #14
Jacket: 686 Hydrastash Sync Gore-Tex
- CANADA
Score: 96.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Articulated
One of three 686 Jackets on this list, the Hydrastash Sync was new for 2020 and now also has a 2021 model.
Apart from all of it's functionality and the benefits of gore-tex, the Hydrastash Sync has one other unique quality - it comes with a built in water bladder, that tucks away in the powder skirt - with tubing up through to the top of the jacket. So, if you're wanting a convenient way of carrying water with you on the mountain, without needing a backpack, this jacket is well worth considering.
Score Breakdown for the Hydrastash Sync
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 96.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #13
Jacket: Patagonia Powder Bowl Gore-Tex
- CANADA
Score: 96.5/100
Insulation: Shell with lining
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
The Powder Bowl is the only Patagonia jacket to make this list. Though, there would be a few others, if I didn’t put a $500 max in place.
One difference that makes this jacket more affordable than some of Patagonia’s other options is that it’s heavier than their other shells (941g [33.6oz]) and has a slightly lower breathability rating – but the significant difference in price might make this the Patagonia option for most.
One of the reason’s that the Powder bowl is a little heavier is that it has a liner. No insulation but a liner – so it will be a little warmer than most in this list – but only by a little bit.
Score Breakdown for the Patagonia Powder Bowl
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 96.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #12
Jacket: Quiksilver Black Alder 2L Gore-Tex
- CANADA
Score: 96.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Modern Fit (slimmer)
The Black Alder 2L, 1 of 3 Quiksilver Jackets in this list, is the mid-priced Gore-Tex offering from Quiksilver and features all the performance you would expect from Gore-Tex and all the functionality you would want from a snowboarding jacket.
It has a more modern, slimmer fit for those looking for something not too baggy.
Score Breakdown for the Quiksilver Black Alder
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 96.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #11
Jacket: Volcom Longo Gore-Tex
- CANADA
Score: 96.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Regular
New for 2021, the Volcom Longo comes with all the benefits of gore-tex and great functionality at a mid-range price.
Score Breakdown for the Longo Gore-tex
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 5.0 | 5/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 96.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #10
Jacket: Quiksilver Forever 2L Gore-Tex
- CANADA
- UK/EUROPE
Score: 96.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Modern Fit (slimmer)
The Forever 2L has all the waterproofing and breathability that most will ever need – and for a really reasonable price for Gore-Tex – and less than the average price of jackets I rated for this list.
I liked this jacket so much I bought it! (the 2019 model) Not only does it provide great value for the performance, but I also really liked the style of it.
Score Breakdown for the Quiksilver Forever
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 96.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #9
Jacket: Quiksilver Mission 2L Gore-Tex
- CANADA
Score: 96.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Modern
Quiksilver's Mission jackets come in a few varieties. This is the gore-tex version. Whilst it's more costly than the other Mission options, it also offers a lot more in terms of waterproofing and breathability, so well worth the extra, if that's important to you.
And as far as price for gore-tex jackets go, this is one of the lowest priced going around - and a good bit less than the average price on this list.
Score Breakdown for the Mission 2L Gore-Tex
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 96.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #8
Jacket: 686 Core Gore-Tex
- CANADA
Score: 96.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Regular
The 686 Core Gore-Tex jacket is new for 2021 and is one of the cheaper gore-tex jackets going around. It's the third cheapest gore-tex jacket on this list and the 4th lowest price.
So, if you're looking to get the benefits of a highly waterproof and breathable shell, but don't have the funds for the majority of them, this is worth looking at.
Score Breakdown for the Core Gore-Tex
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 96.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #7
Jacket: Burton AK Cyclic Gore-Tex
- CANADA
Score: 97.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Regular
The 1st of 3 Burton jackets on this list, the AK Cyclic is Burton's mid-priced gore-tex shell option. Pretty much at the average price for this list, but not by much.
It also has great functionality for snowboarding.
Score Breakdown for the Burton AK Cyclic
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 5.0 | 5/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 97.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #6
Jacket: Burton Vagabond
- CANADA
Score: 97.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Regular
The 2nd of the 3 Burton options in this list, the Vagabond comes in a little cheaper than the Cyclic, but offers the same great performance and functionality.
Score Breakdown for the Vagabond
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 5.0 | 5/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 97.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #5
Jacket: 686 Gore-Tex GT
- CANADA
Score: 97.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Articulated
The 686 Gore-Tex GT is 686’s 3rd and final jacket to make this list. The Gore-Tex GT comes in at a really reasonable price for Gore-Tex and under the average price for this list. It also has a loose, articulated fit, for lots of freedom of movement.
Score Breakdown for the 686 Gore-Tex GT
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 5.0 | 5/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 97.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #4
Jacket: Thirty Two TM3
- CANADA
Score: 97.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 30,000mm
Breathability: 30,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Regular
New for 2021, replacing last years Mullair, the TM3 (not to be confused with the boots of the same name!) are 1 of just 4 non-gore-tex options on this list, but boast really good performance and at a price that your bank account might just be able to stomach.
Score Breakdown for TM3
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 5.0 | 5/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 97.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #3
Jacket: Burton Doppler
- CANADA
Score: 97.5/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 28,000mm
Breathability: 20,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Regular
The final Burton offering on this list, the Doppler is the cheapest Gore-Tex snowboarding jacket I've seen full stop. So, if you're sold on gore-tex, but don't have a massive budget, then this is an option well worth checking out. It's the cheapest gore-tex option and the cheapest overall on this list too.
Score Breakdown for the Doppler Gore-Tex
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 5.0 | 5/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 97.5/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #2
Jacket: DC Command
- CANADA
Score: 99/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 30,000mm
Breathability: 25,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Regular
In at #2, we have DC's Command Jacket.
It’s a good bit cheaper than the average price of all the jackets that I looked at, and yes, this jacket isn’t Gore-Tex either. So, if you’re looking for the tried and trusted of Gore-Tex, then this may not be an option – but if you’re willing to take a chance on it, it will save you a few bucks, and if it lives up to its billing, then you’ll pick up a super-performer at a super-price.
Score Breakdown for the DC Command
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 5.0 | 25/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 4.0 | 4/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 99/100 |
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET #1
Jacket: DC Operative
- CANADA
Score: 100/100
Insulation: Shell
Waterproof Rating: 45,000mm
Breathability: 30,000g
Seams: Fully Taped
Fit: Regular
And finally, the #1 jacket on this list.
The DC Operative boasts incredible waterproofing and breathability performance. If the numbers are to be believed, it's one of the most waterproof and breathable jackets going around.
And on top of all that, it has all the functionality you'll ever need (and might just make you look like a ninja!)
Score Breakdown for the Operative
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
WATERPROOFING | 5.0 | 30/30 |
SEAM SEALING | 5.0 | 20/20 |
BREATHABILITY | 5.0 | 25/25 |
POWDER SKIRT | 5.0 | 5/5 |
VENTING | 5.0 | 5/5 |
HOOD | 5.0 | 5/5 |
JACKET TO PANTS CONNECTIONS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
POCKETS | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 100/100 |
Thanks for Reading
I hope this post has helped you to find the best non-insulated snowboard jacket for you.
Check out the links under each jacket for more info and current prices – or see below for my list of what I think are the best insulated jackets and the best value-for-money jackets currently on the market.
Hi Nate,
Thanks again for your website. You have guided me buying a new board, boots, bindings and now a jacket, either through your articles or directly in the comments. I have just bought the 686 Gore-Tex GT shell jacket. The fit of that jacket is amazing. I am 6′ 180lbs with a 32″ waste and write broad shoulders. I don’t like my jackets baggy, and other then to fit in the body. That jacket in medium with an insulator underneath doesn’t feel like I am wearing anything at all. It’s so light and does not restrict my movement at all. The fit is so much better for me than the Dakine – too slim, or Volcom too restrictive over the shoulders. Looks pretty good too. Thanks again.
Duncan
Hi Duncan
Thanks for the feedback. Great to hear you’ve found a great jacket that sounds like it works perfectly for you
Hey,
So I’m in the process of upgrading my gear and this site has helped out a lot. I already got the Yes Greats Uninc Board, the Union Strata bindings per your guys’s recommendations, but now I’m having a really difficult time picking a jacket.
The Operative looks straight up awesome, and the specs on it are crazy for the price. Here’s my question though, it’s a shell, so what can I expect from it in terms of temperature range?
I live in Europe and I rarely ever get a lot worse than -15°C (5F) even on the colder days. I’m also not a person to easily feel cold, since I never really wear more than 1 layer of clothing aside from whatever jacket I have on me in day to day life.
So my question is, does the operative have me covered if I couple it with 1 piece of thermalwear under it?
Hi RC
Hard to say for sure because everyone is different. I wear a shell jacket and I prefer it, because on those warmer days an insulated jacket is just too hot. I tend to go to 2 baselayers on anything colder than around -8°C and that typically works for me. Anything warmer and I go with 1 baselayer. Note that I also ride with Bib Pants, so that does provide a little extra warmth around the organs. If it gets much warmer than 0°C and the sun is out, I often ride with just the bib pants and 1 baselayer. I would say that I feel the cold less than some but feel it more than some too, but probably closer to not feeling it too bad.
Hope this helps to give you some perspective.
I’m trying update some older gear and ran across this… Great list!
I’ve never been a fan of riding with a hood, so in the past have looked for removable hood options; however, with online shopping I find that a lot of companies don’t advertise this feature or lack thereof. Any idea if any of these jackets have removable hoods?
Thanks!
Ryan
Hi Ryan
Thanks for your message.
Don’t think any of these jackets have removable hoods unfortunately. The DC Operative does have a “stashable” hood. Which I assume means you can zip the hood up into a little pocket, but doesn’t remove completely. Yeah I think companies tend to only advertise the fact if they do have removable hoods. Some do specify fixed hood. But most snowboard jackets that I’ve seen have a fixed hood. Quite a few have removable powder skirts but not removable hoods.
The only one I can think of off the top of my head is the Burton Dunmore, but I’m sure there are others.
whats going on. i have a question about these stretch gore tex jackets. any opinion on them. i find it hard to believe it wont sacrifice any waterproofability with the ability to stretch. i believe burton and volcom(and others) have jackets like this. ive been looking into the volcom guch. thanks
Hi Philip
Yeah, quite a few brands have a stretch in their line. I have Quiksilver TR Stretch pants and haven’t had any issues with waterproofing so far (and I often ride in the wet where I am). But they aren’t Gore-Tex, but not sure if that would make any difference. If they can make non-gore-tex stretch retain their waterproofing, I’m sure they can do it with Gore-Tex. That said, there’s certainly a chance that it affects their waterproofing, but maybe just not enough so to worry about.
Thanks for the list, Nate!
You’re very welcome Rayan
Hi Nate, nice article! I really enjoyed reading it.
Based on your top pick, I managed to get the new DC operative jacket on ebay for a steal (hasn’t been released yet) and yes it is much more breathable than the Volvom stone GORETEX I replaced. I haven’t had a chance to test the 45K waterproof rating yet.
Have you had a chance to try the new North face futurelight series( the A-cad )
They claim insane breathability… I’m curious if it would make your list.
Hi Qaesar
Thanks for your message. Great insight into the DC Operative, thanks for sharing that. I haven’t seen the new North Face futurelight series yet, but sounds interesting.
A-CAD Futurelight is a marketing gimmick, look at the reviews at EVO, this material is so thin is tear down after ONE day!
Aloha Alex,
First, I really appreciate your website and the advice you give your followers. It seems like you’re really passionate and professional, which is awesome. I’m in a conundrum: I am having a lot of trouble picking a new jacket. I grew up snowboarding on the east coast and even did some of my undergraduate studies in Vermont, but surfing was always my passion. For this reason, I ended up in Hawaii for over a decade now. We do one snowboard trip a year (Colorado, Utah, and this year, Whistler). I’ve been using a Burton Covert Jacket, but I get SUPER COLD, even with layering. I guess years of warm weather really does seem to thin your blood. Also, there are obviously no snowboard gear shops on the island, so it’s impossible to try stuff on. So I’m looking for an insulated jacket (perhaps down?) that, above all, is going to be warm. Also, I’m pretty committed to Burton and Volcom products, as I’ve had both and trust both companies. My budget is $500. Do you have any recommendations? I really appreciate any advice.
Mahalo,
Aloha Beau
Thanks for your message.
If you wanted to go for the max warmth and go for something down, then the Burton Frostner Down jacket is worth looking at. It’s not ultimate in terms of waterprooding/breathability, but it’s still really decent there (15,000mm waterproofing/10,000g breathability) and better in that respect than the Covert and massively warmer! So yeah, you would still improve your waterproofing/breathability whilst increasing your warmth.
The only jacket from Volcom that I can see that’s down is the Volcom TDS INF Gore-tex – which would give you that ultimate in warmth and also in waterproofing/breathability, but it’s a good bit over $500.
There’s also the Burton AK LZ Down Gore-Tex which would give both the warmth of down and the waterproofing and breathability of gore-tex, but again it’s over $500.
If you could find one of those in a 2019 model you would likely get it for less than $500, but otherwise probably out of your price range.
Is your covert jacket the Covert “Shell” or Cover “Insulated” do you know? I think they only do an insulated Covert now, but they used to do a shell and an insulated version. Would be useful to know, just because, if you have just the shell, then some of the lesser insulated options might be enough, especially with layers. But if you already have the insulated version, then it sounds like you’ll be looking for something with a good bit more insulation.
So yeah, the Burton Frostner Down sounds like a good option for you, and within budget. But if you wanted more options, might need to look into other brands, unless you are currently wearing a shell and think something with some insulation but not as much as down, would do it, then there are certainly a good number of Burton and Volcom that would fit the bill.
Hope this helps with your decision
It’s an insulated Covert from 2016, so it’s also pretty old at this point. I was looking at the Burton Frostner so this is really really helpful. Great website, brother, and thanks so much for the help. Sharing your expertise shows a lot of Aloha and it is really appreciated. I’ll be sure to pass on your information to anyone I come across who might need help making decisions about snowboarding products. Thanks again.
You’re very welcome Beau, and thanks for the kind words. Hope you have an awesome time in Whistler!
Hello Nate,
Thanks for the list and I need your help 🙂
I own 5 years old 686 jacket and really happy with it but it’s time to choose another one because it is torn in few places and not that waterproof anymore.
I don’t have a big budget so can not buy one of those fancy GORE-Tex jackets.
Here are few options that I have stopped with:
1. VOLCOM VCO INFERNO INS JKT
2. 686 GEO
3. 686 Icon Insulated Jacket
I know quality of 686 jackets and incredibly happy about that but Volcom also seems to be a good company.
I am leaning towards 1st option due to few reasons:
– it is 15,000/15,000 compare to both 686 jackets
– it has Zip technology and it looks really promising (I am looking for new pants too)
– I can buy it for $30-$40 cheaper than 686 jackets.
At the same time I love 686 and don’t know what to do.
Can you please give me your opinion cause I value it a lot (bought Yes. Standard based on your review :))
Thanks in advance.
P.S. I am looking to wear the jacket only during snowboarding and buying it for 4-5 years so just let me know if I should better increase my budget.
Hi Alex
Thanks for your message.
I would personally go for the Volcom VCO Inferno just because it has that better waterproofing – which is the main thing I think about when going for a snowboarding jacket. Both Volcom and 686 make good quality jackets at reasonable prices, IMO, so if you’re looking for low cost, both brands are good options. You can also check out the following list, which I made specifically for low cost jackets.
>>Top 10 Cheap Snowboard Jackets
If you wanted to stick with what you know in 686, the 686 S-86 and 686 Peacekeeper might be worth checking out.
Hope this helps
I’ve got the DC Command! The “sympatex” alternative is supposedly more eco friendly than Gore-Tex and it worked super good for me this last season! I never got wet through it once. The command is a fairly long jacket too so it gives you good protection from the snow when you repeatedly are sitting in it as a snowboarder.
Hi Matt
Thanks for your input. Always good to hear other’s opinions/experiences with gear.
Nate,
Do you know the difference between the waterproof/breathability of the different types of 3Layer Gore Tex products? It looks like Gore Pro is the most breathable and durable, but don’t see numbers online. Then looks like C-Knit Gore is next on breathability then 3L laminate Gore which I believe is just called 3Layer Gore Tex is slightly lower? I see your waterproof ratings are showing even 2L Gore with the same breathability as 3L (which I know EVO has listed), but Gore says certain 3L are more breathable. So confusing Thanks!
Hi Ryan
Yeah it all gets pretty confusing, for sure.
3L has a bit more breathability, as far as I know, but in reality not sure how noticeable it is – since even 2 layer is very close, IMO, I’ve kind of capped it, ratings-wise. The other thing with 3 layer – is that it’s supposed to be more durable. Durability isn’t something I typically comment on, since it’s not something that can be easily tested for.
Gore-Tex Pro is a boost in breathability as far as I can tell – and is supposed to be lighter too. But I haven’t really seen anything in snowboarding jackets that uses this, within the price range that I’m looking at. I capped this list at a maximum of $500. Since any more than that is out of reach for a majority of people. There are certainly jackets that would add even more performance (and often the case that extra cost is added for lighter jackets too) but they are in a price range that I choose to ignore. It’s not a price range that I would consider personally, just because, there are other products that do close to as good a job (and certainly as good a job as a vast majority really need), that are in a more reasonable price category.
Hope this makes sense/helps to answer your question
Thanks! Ya, my current pants and jacket are about 7 years old and this was the first season I noticed the pants wetting out. My pants were supposedly 3Layer at the time I got them but not Gore Tex. My jacket is Gore tex, same year as the pants and water is still beading up like the first few years I got it. It is however beat to hell (scraping tree branches and stuff in my snowboard bag, so likely need to get a new one. With the sales going on this time of year it’s tough not to take advantage so just started researching if the extra $ for the 3rd layer made sense, since it’s all on discount anyway.
Hi Ryan
Yeah I found that jackets/pants I’ve had in the past that weren’t gore-tex always eventually lost their waterproofing. But I have found gore-tex to be more reliable over a longer time. But I’m happy with 2L for the conditions I see. 3L will probably last even longer, but by that time, it’s sometimes nice to get something new anyway, to change up the style a bit. If you can get a good deal on 3L certainly not a bad thing, but I’m personally happy with 2L.
Makes sense. That 3rd layer is on the inside anyway and any 2L is going to have an inside layer so likely not that different then the 3L. Also, like I mentioned my 3L Gore jacket from 7 years ago is so beat up and the style outdated it’s time for an upgrade anyway. Thanks for the advice!
You’re very welcome Ryan. Thanks for visiting the site.
Hi. I would like to ask your opinion about L1 Alpha Jacket which is also 20K and I was thinking of buying it because I can find it in the half of its price .
Hi Alex
Thanks for your message.
It looks like it has the functionailty you want from a snowboard jacket, and has good waterproofing (20K and fully taped seams) and breathability specs. If you can get it at a good price I can’t see any reason why not.
Hope this helps
Hi again 🙂 Thank you a lot for your previous answer.
I would like also to ask your opinion about Dakine Vapor 2L . I am asking because you have other Dakine’s jackets on the list and not the Vapor. Do you think that it is not a good option in comparison with the others of the same brand? And something last . Why the material of Dakine’s 2L goretex is very soft in comparison with other goretex jackets ?
Thank you in advance 🙂
Hi Alex
The Vapor seems to be a jacket that I missed. But based on the specs it looks like a good option and would likely have made this list had I seen it. One thing to note is that it’s a “long and trim” fitting jacket. If that’s what you’re looking for, then it looks like a good jacket based on the specs. Not sure why the material would feel softer than with other brands? Though it does say in the specs of the jacket that it has “Polyester Soft Plain Weave bluesign® approved material” which might be the reason. In terms of whether it will last or not, this is something I can comment on, having not owned the jacket myself.
Hope this helps
Thank you Nate. Yes I was looking for a long jacket as I am 1.90 m. But I dont say no on a better jacket. As for the material , yes its softer but maybe its the reason you expained me. Also the other Dakine’s jackets that you have on this list have the same material so I hope this is not a bad thing. For example the volcom stone jacket has a sharper Goretex material. I am between these two jackets (Dakine Vapor and Volcom Stone). Both of them are in a good price with the Volcom stone to be 30 euros more expensive. What do you think? What is the best one ?
Hi Alex
Between those two, there’s nothing in it in terms of performance, so I would choose based on which you like the fit of more, and the style of more. If you can’t decide from those two things, then the cheapest is probably the smart call.
Looks like Volcom are making good jackets from this list. Im on the lookout for a top value jacket from the 17/18 season and would like to ask if you have tested any Horsefeathers jackets as there seems to be some choice in these at reasonable prices. With a starting price of about £150 I dont think I will be buying a new season jacket, but you never know.
Thoughts greatly appreciated.
Hi Dave
I’m not familiar with Horsefeathers jackets, unfortunately. But if you’re looking for good value, you could also check out the following.
>>Top 10 Men’s Cheap Snowboard Jackets
Hey, I wonder which jackets might be zipped with Volcom pants? My old Burton jacket might be zipped with old Volcom pants (I did it 😉 but I dont know if any Burton jacket has zip to pants in powder skirt. I have heard Ride jackets also could be zipped. Do you know anything about it? Thank you
Hi Marcin
Thanks for your message.
As far as I know, but I’m happy to be proven wrong here, all Burton jackets that I’ve seen just have the dome clip jacket to pant interface thing (see image). But potentially older ones had zippered connections.
I believe at least some of Ride’s jackets have a zippered jacket to pants connection, but I’m not sure whether they’re compatible with Volcom or not.
Of course there’s always a Volcom Jacket (to state the obvious :-))
This phrase “non insulated” concerns me. Does this mean you will need a mid layer as well (except on sunny spring days and would you need more insulation if it was really cold, say -20 c. Also although a good jacket will last for years – Im still using my old Bonfire jacket and thats over 10 years old- price will be most peoples overriding factor. We would all like a Goretex jacket with the latest bells and whistles, but most of us are on some kind of budget.
Hi Dave
Yeah for non-insulated jackets (shells) like these you will need to layer up for colder days. If you prefer having insulation in the jacket, there are plenty of good insulated options too (getting on to updating my insulated list soon!).
And definitely price is a big factor for most – I’m also looking to update my Affordable Snowboard Jackets list soon as well. This list doesn’t take price into account – except that I didn’t include anything over $600 – but that affordable list does.