It's hard to know how to feel about a jacket that's targeted as much at poseurs
as participants. On the one hand many riders only want authentic equipment that
can pass muster on the mountain. But there are plenty of those who want as much
to look the part at Starbucks, and stay dry on their way back to the SUV.
And it is for both of these groups that K2 has rolled out a stylish new jacket,
dubbed the Perimeter Softshell. In case you weren't aware, softshell is the
"it" fabric this season, and every company is featuring something in these
latest and greatest uber-fabrics. Problem is, these jackets can demand some
serious cash for their over-engineered apres-snow charm.
Enter K2's Perimeter. At only $179 (as if that's pocket change), this flat
black softshell jacket offers some of the cleanest lines we've seen from a very
capable piece of outerwear. While the coat is aimed at the rider who, according
to K2 "Likes the mountain vibe but mostly hangs in the valleys and plains," it
still hangs in there on the chairlift. So long as the temperature doesn't drop
too low.
The jacket, offered in one Ford-esque color (black) and in sizes from XS to XL,
isn't exactly feature-laden yet provides your basic pit zips, chest pocket and
comfy hood. There are elastic drawstrings at the waist and hood, and
hook-and-loop adjustable cuffs. As a bonus, the right pocket features a key
tether.
The jacket's only drawback are the "hand warmer" pockets, which are drafty at
best and didn't keep out hands very warm. And, with no added insulation inside,
it's up to you to provide the warmth layer, making this jacket best suited for
above-freezing temps.
The beauty of this piece is in the fabric itself, which is impossibly soft and
comfortable, yet tough and waterproof. According to K2, the jacket is comprised
of "A weft stretch woven face laminated to a water- and snow-resistant,
windproof highly breathable membrane. This is then laminated to a warp stretch
brushed interior." Water beaded up and rolled right off the fabric, which has a
nice wicking layer inside. The jacket fits well, and looks great both on and
off the mountain.
The Perimeter is great for those who spend as much time thinking about the snow
as falling into it, and will satisfy all but the most demanding riders. It may
not be the most technical piece in your quiver of jackets, but we can promise
it will at least be one of the most stylish.
Msrp: $179
www.k2snowboarding.com // 800-972-4038
Reviewed & Written by Ari Cheren, MountainZone.com Gear Editor