Warm Jackets For Arctic

Slandia might sound like a cold isolated island nation in the Arctic, but Mountain Hardwear's rugged winter shell is even more fun to wear than it is to say. On nearly 30 variable days sliding down the snowy peaks of the Colorado Rockies, the Slandia provided warmth, comfort, protection and the occasional compliment, both on and off the slopes. With a 10,000mm waterproof Conduit exterior and plenty of Thermic Micro insulation, as well as an adjustable zip-off hood (that fits neatly over a helmet) and snow skirt, the jacket Mountain Hardwear sent us was more of a tank than a piece of clothing, constantly keeping out the elements while never getting too warm. Soft fleece thumbholes kept the sleeves down while interior and exterior pocket space allowed for extra goggles, a hat, an iPod, slope-side snacks and more, without feeling bulked up or looking like a winter-ready snowman. Welded zippers make the jacket darn-near impenetrable, while double-sided pit zips help air out some of those more convoluted spaces. Just don't get too close while those are open...