Layering Tips for Wearing a Burton Snowboard Jacket in Cold Weather
When you’re gearing up for a day on the slopes, having the right gear is crucial for staying warm, comfortable, and ready to ride. Layering is one of the best ways to ensure you’re prepared for the ever-changing conditions of the mountains, especially when wearing a high-performance Burton snowboard jacket. Layering properly allows you to regulate your body temperature by adding or removing layers as needed, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout your ride.
In this article, we’ll share layering tips specifically for wearing a Burton snowboard jacket in cold weather. Whether you’re facing freezing temperatures, high winds, or the occasional snowstorm, these tips will help you stay warm, dry, and ready to conquer the slopes.
1. Start with a Moisture-Wicking Base Layer
The first step in layering is choosing the right base layer, which sits directly against your skin. The main function of a base layer is to wick away moisture—whether it’s sweat or melted snow—keeping you dry and preventing that uncomfortable cold feeling when moisture cools your skin.
For cold weather, opt for a thermal base layer made from materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics such as polyester. Both options effectively wick away moisture while offering warmth. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and can leave you feeling damp, especially after a day of intense activity.
Burton offers several options for base layers that are designed for cold-weather performance, such as their Burton Midweight Base Layer. These garments provide excellent moisture control while allowing for freedom of movement.
2. Choose an Insulating Mid-Layer for Warmth
Once you have a moisture-wicking base layer, it’s time to add an insulating mid-layer. The purpose of this layer is to trap body heat and provide warmth while still allowing for breathability.
A great mid-layer for snowboarding is a fleece jacket, a down-insulated jacket, or a synthetic insulated jacket. Fleece is lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, making it a popular choice for snowboarders. Down insulation offers superior warmth for extremely cold days, but it may not perform as well when wet. For wet conditions or high levels of activity, synthetic insulation offers warmth even when damp, and it dries faster than down.
Burton’s AK 3L Gore-Tex Pro Jacket is a popular snowboard jacket that works perfectly with mid-layers for extra insulation. For an added layer of warmth, you can combine it with a Burton Midweight Fleece Pullover or a down vest for additional core warmth.
3. Choose a Burton Snowboard Jacket with Proper Insulation and Waterproofing
Your Burton snowboard jacket is the final layer of your outfit, and it plays a significant role in keeping you warm and dry in cold weather. Look for a jacket that offers a combination of insulation, waterproofing, and breathability—all features that Burton excels in.
Burton’s jackets, such as the Burton AK 2L Gore-Tex Pro Jacket, feature Gore-Tex® fabric for superior waterproofing, ensuring that no snow or rain will get through to your base and mid-layers. The DryRide™ technology also ensures that your jacket is breathable, preventing moisture from building up inside.
For insulation, Burton offers a range of jackets with various levels of warmth, from lightweight options like the Burton Covert Jacket to warmer choices like the Burton [AK] 3L Gore-Tex Jacket with Thermacore™ insulation for cold conditions. The key is to choose a jacket that aligns with the temperature and conditions you’ll face, providing both warmth and protection without overheating.
Key Features to Look for in a Burton Snowboard Jacket:
- Waterproofing: Ensures you stay dry in wet conditions.
- Breathability: Prevents moisture buildup and overheating.
- Insulation: Keeps you warm without restricting movement.
- Seam Sealing: Helps prevent water from seeping in through stitching.
- Ventilation Zips: Allow you to regulate temperature by opening vents during intense activity.
4. Add Accessories for Extra Protection
Accessories can make a big difference when layering for cold weather. Adding the right accessories will ensure that every part of your body stays warm, dry, and protected from the elements.
Essential Accessories:
- Gloves or Mittens: Make sure your hands stay warm with waterproof gloves or mittens. Consider a pair with insulation and waterproofing, such as Burton Gore-Tex Gloves.
- Neck Gaiter or Balaclava: Protect your face and neck from windburn and cold temperatures with a neck gaiter or balaclava. Choose one made from fleece or merino wool for warmth.
- Beanie or Helmet Liner: A beanie or a helmet liner will help regulate your body temperature and protect your head from the cold. If you’re wearing a helmet, a liner that fits comfortably under the helmet is essential.
- Snowboarding Socks: Opt for socks made from merino wool or synthetic blends designed for snowboarding to keep your feet dry and warm. Avoid cotton socks, as they trap moisture.
5. Consider Layering Flexibility with Burton’s Layering System
Burton has designed many of its jackets and snowboarding apparel with layering flexibility in mind. The brand offers layered snowboarding systems, where base layers, mid-layers, and outer layers work in harmony to provide optimal warmth and breathability. Many of their jackets feature zippers and vents, allowing you to adjust layers easily as conditions change throughout the day.
For example, if you’re riding in the morning when it’s colder, you can keep your mid-layer on, but as the temperature rises, you can open up the vents or shed a layer entirely to maintain comfort.
6. Don’t Forget About Comfort and Mobility
While warmth and weather protection are important, you also want to ensure that your layering choices don’t restrict your movement. Snowboarding requires flexibility, so make sure that the jacket and layers you choose allow for a full range of motion, especially in your arms, shoulders, and legs.
Burton’s jackets are known for their ergonomic designs that accommodate movement. They are made with stretchy fabrics and articulated seams that offer comfort and mobility. When layering, ensure that the base layer, mid-layer, and jacket all fit well and don’t impede movement.
Conclusion
Proper layering is essential for staying comfortable and performing at your best while snowboarding, especially in cold weather. By starting with a moisture-wicking base layer, adding an insulating mid-layer, and finishing with a high-performance Burton snowboard jacket, you’ll be prepared for whatever the mountain throws at you.
Burton’s jackets, with their advanced waterproofing and breathability, provide a perfect outer layer to protect you from the elements. Combining these with accessories like gloves, beanies, and neck gaiters ensures that every part of your body stays warm, dry, and comfortable. With the right layers, you’ll be ready to conquer the slopes in any weather, enjoying your ride without worrying about the cold.
