Getting The Right Snowboarding Jacket

Okay we've covered the three most important pieces of snowboarding gear: the board, the bindings, boots, and gloves. But wait, there are other really important pieces of gear you'll want to consider buying. Of course which you buy and the quality you decide to buy is only limited by the size of your checkbook. I would recommend purchasing each of the items below, but to keep your sport affordable choose mid range rather than high end. Remember low end is often not much of a savings because it either doesn't last as long or it doesn't offer the same protection.

Jackets

When shopping for a jacket for snowboarding you need to make sure it fits right. It should be loose and comfortable while at the same time not too big. Avoid jackets that restrict your motion because when you're snowboarding you are going to want a full range of motion. Test by zipping it up and doing up all the snaps then lift your hands over your head. You should be able to do this easily without feeling any restriction in the arms and shoulders. You also need to make sure that doing this doesn't expose your tummy. Nothing more uncomfortable than your belly hanging out in the cold every time you make a move.

Your jacket should be waterproof to keep you dry while out on the mountain playing. Sports jackets have a waterproof rating that ranges from 5,000 mm which is the least waterproof to 20,000 mm which is the most waterproof. You can check the tag to see the waterproof rating for the jacket you are looking at. A jacket around 10,000 mm normally provides adequate water protection while at the same time still leaving your jacket plenty flexible. The 20,000 mm jackets tend to be quite stiff so although great for some sports they are not so good for boarding.

You also need to choose a jacket made from a breathable material. In fact what you want to do is combine waterproofing with breathability. There's no point in having a waterproof jacket if you are going to sweat to death.

Now just when you think you know everything there is to know about buying a jacket, theres's more. If you are going to be snowboarding in the northern part of the planet make sure that your jacket is adequate to keep you warm.

Because northern resorts at higher altitudes have a dry powdery snow waterproofing isn't as important. 8000 mm should be adequate. You'll want to make sure that the liner will keep you warm in these colder climates.

The opposite is true if you go south say to Australia where the temperature is much warmer and they tend to have snow showers. In this type of climate you'll want at least a 10,000 mm waterproofing.

Next: > Page 2: More Tips On Snowboard Jacket

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