The 686 Waterproof Hoodie is a great snowboard if you're looking for a jacket that can handle any weather condition, keep you warm and dry, and look good on and off the slopes. This jacket is more than just a hoodie - it's a technical piece of outerwear that combines the best features of a softshell and a hardshell. In this review, I'll share my personal experience with the 686 Waterproof Hoodie and how it performed on various criteria.
SPEC SHEET:
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Waterproof rating: 10K/10K
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Breathability rating: 10K/10K
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Insulation: 80g body/60g sleeves
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Fit: Regular
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Hood: adjustable and removable
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Pockets: zippered hand, chest and sleeve pockets
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Price range: $200-$250
DETAILED REVIEW
1. Jacket Type
The 686 Waterproof Hoodie is a hybrid jacket that blends the comfort and flexibility of a softshell with the durability and protection of a hardshell. It's designed to be worn as a standalone jacket or as a layering piece under a shell. The hoodie has a regular fit that allows for some room to move and layer, but it's not too baggy or bulky.
2. Waterproofing and Breathability
One of the most impressive features of the 686 Waterproof Hoodie is its waterproofing and breathability. The jacket has a 10K/10K rating, which means it can withstand 10,000 mm of water pressure and allow 10,000 g of water vapor to pass through per square meter per day. This rating is comparable to some high-end hardshells, but without the stiffness or noise. The jacket also has DWR (durable water repellent) coating on the outer fabric, which helps repel water and stains.
The 686 Waterproof Hoodie is also very breathable, thanks to its infiDRY fabric technology. This fabric has tiny pores that allow moisture to escape, but prevent water from entering. The jacket also has mesh-lined underarm vents that can be opened or closed with zippers, depending on the temperature and activity level.
3. Materials and Membrane
The 686 Waterproof Hoodie is made of a blend of polyester and spandex, which gives it a soft and stretchy feel. The fabric is also very durable and resistant to abrasion and tearing. The jacket has a bonded fleece backing that adds some warmth and coziness, but it's not too heavy or bulky.
The jacket also has a waterproof membrane that is laminated to the fabric, creating a barrier against water and wind. The membrane is made of polyurethane, which is flexible and breathable, but also strong and durable. The membrane is also eco-friendly, as it's made of recycled materials and does not contain any harmful chemicals.
4. Insulation Type
The 686 Waterproof Hoodie does not have any insulation, as it's designed to be worn as a mid-layer or a shell. However, the jacket does have some thermal properties, thanks to its fleece backing and its waterproof membrane. The fleece provides some warmth and comfort, while the membrane blocks out the cold air and wind. The jacket also has an adjustable hood that can be cinched around the face for extra warmth.
5. Jacket Fit
The 686 Waterproof Hoodie has a regular fit that is neither too tight nor too loose. It has enough room to accommodate some layers underneath, but it's not so baggy that it restricts movement or looks sloppy. The jacket has an adjustable hem that can be tightened or loosened with drawcords, depending on the preference and weather conditions. The jacket also has elastic cuffs that fit snugly around the wrists, preventing cold air from entering.
6. Extra Features
The 686 Waterproof Hoodie has some extra features that make it more functional and convenient for snowboarding or skiing. Some of these features are:
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A zippered chest pocket that can store small items like keys, cards, or snacks.
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Two zippered hand pockets that can keep the hands warm or store larger items like gloves or goggles.
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An internal media pocket that can hold a phone or an MP3 player, with a headphone port that allows for easy access to music.
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A zip-off powder skirt that can prevent snow from getting inside the jacket when riding in deep powder.
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A jacket-to-pant connection system that can attach the jacket to compatible pants, creating a seamless seal against snow and wind.
Some of the most relevant features of the 686 Waterproof Hoodie are:
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Hybrid jacket that combines softshell and hardshell qualities
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10K/10K waterproofing and breathability rating
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DWR coating on outer fabric
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infiDRY fabric technology with recycled polyurethane membrane
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Bonded fleece backing for warmth and comfort
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Mesh-lined underarm vents for ventilation
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Adjustable hood, hem, and cuffs for fit and protection
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Zippered chest, hand, and media pockets for storage
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Zip-off powder skirt and jacket-to-pant connection system for snow defense
Conclusion
The 686 Waterproof Hoodie is a versatile and stylish jacket that can handle any weather condition and any terrain. It's comfortable and flexible, but also durable and protective. It's breathable and warm, but also lightweight and packable. It's a great jacket for snowboarding or skiing, but also for casual wear or travel. If you're looking for a jacket that can do it all, you might want to give the 686 Waterproof Hoodie a try. You can find it on this website!