What to look for in a Ski/Snoboard Coat

[Euro_Trash]

I undergrew my last coat (fuckin weight loss) so I need a new coat for snowboarding this year. I want to buy something that will last me 5+ years, so I don't mind spending some cash. What should I be looking for? I am a bit of a wimp so I want something warm (and I will also be wearing this around town). So what do I need to keep an eye out for in terms of materials, etc?

The ones that caught my eye so far:
http://www.thenorthface.com/catalog/sc-gear/mens-enzo-jacket.html

http://arcteryx.com/Product.aspx?EN/Mens/Jackets/Fission-SV-Jacket#Insulated_Waterproof_Shell

[Twin_Cam_Turbo]

I personally like one that has a good powder skirt and also when it zips up top it covers your face as much as possible, I hate face masks and prefer to hide my face in the top of my jacket.

[ercchry]

this is a super personal decision, but this is what i like:

-a good seal from the elements; how does the powder skirt work? good seal at wrists? does the zipper zip far enough up to cover my face up to my goggles? is it a nice material that doesnt "grab" facial hair?

-usability with gloves on

-good headphone/ipod integration

-ventilation

-style

[03ozwhip]

i should follow my own advice here, but style. i have an Analog and im using it for winter outtings as well as the hill and IMO its too long, i fuckin hate long winter jackets, it makes me feel like a hobo when im not at a hill.

that being said, i will just use my wool jacket for outtings for the most part, since its warm enough. if you dont mind wearing a long jacket for everyday use, i recommend one especially if it has a really good powder skirt, it will be awesome for keeping you dry and warm.

[asp integra]

make sure u look for all seams sealed, minimum 15/15k waterproof/breathable. 20/20k is even better. fit, style pockets etc are up to you. i would say powder skirts are key as well

[cmodem]

Originally posted by Euro_Trash
I undergrew my last coat (fuckin weight loss) so I need a new coat for snowboarding this year. I want to buy something that will last me 5+ years, so I don't mind spending some cash. What should I be looking for? I am a bit of a wimp so I want something warm (and I will also be wearing this around town). So what do I need to keep an eye out for in terms of materials, etc?

The ones that caught my eye so far:
http://www.thenorthface.com/catalog/sc-gear/mens-enzo-jacket.html

http://arcteryx.com/Product.aspx?EN/Mens/Jackets/Fission-SV-Jacket#Insulated_Waterproof_Shell

Hey man, i work in the clothing dept at skicellar snowboard on 17th you should come by if you need a hand.

But essentially a jacket is all about keeping you warm and dry. How warm and how dry is your preference. Based on what you said you'd like something on the warm side.

So with that you should look for upgraded insulation materials. Jackets usually come in (order of warmth):

Materials such as:

Shell (no insulation), Polyester fill (in varying grams), 3M thinsulate, PrimaLoft, Down

That being said the more windproof/waterproof/breathable the more dry you will feel and being dry will also keep you warmer.

5000k, 10000k, 15000k, 20000k, or gore-tex say 30000k

So the most expensive jackets usually have the best waterproofing i.e. goretex, with some crazy insulation materials... like burtons AK 2LZ Down Jacket http://ca.burton.com/mens-ak-2l-lz-down-snowboard-jacket/276371,default,pd.html?start=2&cgid=mens-jackets

I'd probably not ride anything under 10000k, and if you are doing fernie or spring skiing do 20000k.

Most companies have all the similiar features ipod stash, valuables pocket, extra lense pocket, snow skirt etc. But it's important to know the jacket has all these.

But yeah, you mention warmth so look for some upgraded insulation and stick with some good waterproofing rating.

But come on down if you need a hand and one of my co-workers or maybe me will be there.

[GT.....O?]

I have this jacket and love it. The stretch is awesome, its very warm. The inside is incredibly soft, if you ski with a helmet the hood is big enough to cover that and the face part covers everything your googles don't cover.

Great Jacket, water proofing is awesome, and since I'm a bit of the lighter side, (tall and skinny haha) its fitted perfectly for my body shape plus looks somewhat stylish to wear every day

http://shop.hellyhansen.com/ca-en/item/stoneham-jacket-62102/?t_type=rvp

Helly Hansen Stoneham Jacket

[AudiPWR]

-down
-gortex
-shell + unzippable liner to take out on those warm days
-sick/steezy/dope/gnar design

try 686, they make a killer jacket.