Ever heard the saying, “there’s no such factor as dangerous climate, simply dangerous gear”? At Ski.com, we swear by this philosophy. Our Mountain Journey Consultants aren’t simply professionals at planning ski holidays – they’re passionate skiers and snowboarders who know that having the best gear could make all of the distinction on the mountain. Simply as our Consultants meticulously vet lodges and locations, we personally check our model companions’ merchandise within the area to offer the last word suggestions.
Not too long ago, among the Ski.com workforce headed to Japan on the Southern Hokkaido Guided Journey. Understanding they’d want reliable and versatile outerwear and layers, they packed their baggage with the newest kinds from our trusted associate, Strafe Outerwear, to place the merchandise to the check. Spoiler alert: the Strafe gear, very like the snowboarding, was completely phenomenal.
Our Knowledgeable’s Strafe Outerwear Critiques:
Outerwear: Nomad 3L Shell Jacket and Bib Pant
Mid Layer: Ajax Snap Fleece
Examined by: Dan Sherman, Chief Advertising Officer
Sporting my Nomad Jacket and bibs made me really feel like a snow samurai throughout my current journey to Japan. Situations included a combination of powder, wind and solar and this freeride-cut jacket completely tailored to every atmosphere. On the deep days, it solely allowed powder in all the best locations – my face. I really like the double chest pockets and enormous hand pockets and the ski cross holder on the sleeve was the envy of my crew as we bounced between a number of resorts (and passes) all through Hokkaido over 2.5 weeks.
I haven’t worn a fleece in a few years and should admit that I didn’t assume I would love the Ajax. Nevertheless, I instantly fell in love with this heat and furry piece of armor. Tucked into my Nomad bibs, this was my final layer on chilly Japan days. Niseko temps throughout our journey had been under zero Fahrenheit, and I remained toasty with minimal layers and bulk due to my new favourite piece from Strafe. —DS
High: Fortunate 2L Insulated Jacket
Bottoms: Pika 2L Insulated Pant
Examined by: Lee Ann Shut, Mountain Journey Knowledgeable
This insulated jacket/pant combo proved indispensable in Niseko’s combined circumstances. The Fortunate Jacket, aptly named, stored me comfortable and dry in temperatures starting from the 20s to the 30s. Its handy sleeve zip for the carry cross and double closure on the neck, full with a spacious hood that comfortably match over my helmet, had been standout options.
Pairing the jacket with the Pika Pant was a successful match. The roomy pant, with adjustable Velcro waist tabs, supplied a classy and comfy match that made each run a pleasure. Its insulation supplied much-needed heat, and the Sundown pink shade added a enjoyable pop to my ensemble. The straightforward zip entrance hip pockets had been nice for stashing necessities, and the useful hip zip vents allowed for fast cooldowns. It’s price noting that the vents open on to your base layer. I appreciated the size of the pant (measurement Massive), because it suited my 5’9″ body with a 33-inch inseam completely. — LC
High: Lynx 3L Shell Pullover
Bottoms: Willow 3L Shell Half-Bib Pant
Examined by: Carly Redfield, Advertising Supervisor
I cherished how the colourful Sundown and Storm Cloud Blue colours of this equipment stood out towards Japan’s snowy backdrop. This was my first time making an attempt an anorak-style jacket, and my expectations had been exceeded with this one from Strafe. Not solely did it hold me heat and comfy all day on the slopes, however the added comfort of facet zips ensured seamless transitions when popping in for ramen and Sapporo Basic lodge breaks.
From resort powder laps to the hike-to terrain in Niseko, this equipment proved versatile. The strategically positioned facet vents and light-weight materials on each the jacket and bibs stored me cool throughout our many hikes. I used to be an enormous fan of the Lynx jacket’s kangaroo pouch which supplied fast entry to my telephone, digicam and 7-11 carry snacks all day lengthy. Whether or not using powder within the timber or exploring the village, I felt snug from morning to nighttime. — CR
High: Hayden 2L Insulated Jacket
Bottoms: Summit 2L Insulated Pant
Examined by: Adam Trattler, Mountain Journey Knowledgeable
The Summit pants paired with the Hayden jacket had been spot-on. Their breathable and light-weight materials made them a pleasure to put on. As somebody accustomed to layering with a shell and a number of layers, I used to be pleasantly stunned by how a lot much less cumbersome and heavy this insulated combo felt.
Regardless of their lighter really feel, each items supplied distinctive heat—I used to be in a position to ski comfortably with only a base layer beneath, even throughout evening snowboarding periods. The pockets had been a game-changer, with the cross sleeve being significantly handy. Beforehand, I struggled with my cross scanning at each carry, however as soon as I switched to the Summit jacket that concern was immediately fastened. — AT
Strive Strafe Outerwear on Your Subsequent Winter Getaway:
Simply as you belief Ski.com‘s Mountain Journey Consultants to plan your dream ski holidays, you may depend on them to advocate top-quality gear in your mountain adventures. While you ebook with Ski.com, you’ll unlock unique gives from our associate manufacturers, together with reductions at Strafe. Discover Strafe Outerwear’s vary of technical ski and snowboard jackets, pants and layers that ship unmatched efficiency, high quality and elegance.
