Whether you are choosing a jacket for fashion or function, there are as many options out there for outerwear as there are snowboarders on the slopes. As a boarder myself, I am always looking for what’s made for riders by riders. And Burton is always a top pick. This year the AK 2L Blade jacket rose to the top as my choice from their line this year.

The Burton Blade is high performance, technical, and extremely versatile, making it ideal for the backside or the front side of the mountain. The AK line is designed for the freestyle rider that is in need of not just lightweight performance, but also style. Burton seamlessly blended the function of GORE-TEX® fabric with a sleek cut and color to really make your style pop, with out bulking up.

I am always cold out there, but I tend to lean towards shells with layering options rather than a cumbersome coat with a lot of insulation, that will just hinder my movements (I hate feeling like the Michelin Man with all those layers). The fit is performance oriented, engineered to mimic the body’s natural flex while riding and hiking.

The added bonus of  the Blade jacket is the contoured hood. Ever tried putting your hoodup and still be able to see down hill as you slide sideways on your board? Not easy, so Burton solved this by scalloping back the hood so you can see perfectly downhill while still fully protected by your hood. Personally I love the high collar with brushed tricot lining, a perfect way to take the edge off a biting wind, or for those days your forget a facemask. 

And for the finishing touch, it is GORE-TEX, in Burton’s words, it is “as waterproof and breathable as it gets. Don’t forget your snorkel!”

Rating
4.2 (out of 5)

Style: Top marks  are awarded for a sleek, stylish design and bright colors. I wear this jacket on and off the hill. +1

Design: This is trivial, but I wish it had a pass pocket. The Bladeis a backcountry jacket, but still want to wear it on the frontside, and I am terrible about misplacing my pass. I also find the powder skirt to be situated a little high on the waist, and I have a short torso. But despite this, the Blade makes up lost points in the contoured hood. – .8

Durability: Lifetime warranty on Burton AK products means this jacket should stand up tot the test of time. So far I have not noticed any durability issues other than getting it dirty after so many days of use. +1

Performance: Add together lightweight, versatile, breathable and waterproof and it equals a jacket that can stand up to all-weather conditions and its got enough room to layer up. +1

Comfort: Since this jacket is basically a shell, there in no bulky insulation. The Blade is sleek and comfortable. Easy to move in as your trek up or down the hill. +1

Buy the Burton AK 2L Blade Jacket.