Fall in Ontario can be a fickle season. The forecast can say sunny, but then all of a sudden turn sour. What to do? Dakine provides the solution in the lightweight Blitz jacket, since it can pack down very small in a hydration pack.
Specs
According to Dakine, the Blitz Jacket “is designed to be highly breathable and waterproof in the most demanding conditions.” The Blitz uses a “2.5 layer 10K waterproof / 10k breathable DK DRY membrane system.” Essentially, the Blitz keeps the water out and still allows your body to breath. All the zips are water resistant to further increase water repulsion. Inside, all the seams have been taped to prevent any water from leaking though the stitching.
As far as fit goes, the Blitz is considered Dakine’s Freeride / DH fit jacket. Consequently, you can fit armor underneath the jacket and still have a bit of room to move comfortably.
When shredding out on the slopes, an extended lower hem covers your back side from splashes. If you do get a bit warm, strategically-placed venting on the back panel and under the arms allows for increased cooling. If it really pours or the sleeves are a bit on the long side for you, adjustable cuffs allow you to close things off around the wrist as tight or as loose as you want.
The hood can easily accommodate a helmet; in fact, it can fit a full face lid (no Leatt, though). You can then adjust the opening of the hood to cinch things up.
The jacket provides three pockets, one on each side, and a left breast pocket, which is perfect for iPhones. Reflective logos for visibility in low light conditions round off the technical features.
Out on the Trail
I love Dakine gear, as the company consistently puts serious thought into their clothing. Not only do they worry about style and fit, but they focus on the durability and performance of their goods. This is not the first time I’ve reviewed this product from Dakine, either: you can check out my previous review of the 2011 version here.
This year’s version underwent some serious improvements. I love the cuff redesign, as the older ones did, over an extended time, wear down the medical grade velcro. The relocation of the pockets and separating the chest pocket from the side pocket also makes the jacket more functional over fashionable.
I love using this jacket in cooler weather and on damp, windy days. The Blitz really does a good job at keeping out the wind and water. I mentioned above that it can get a bit warm, and it does. The back vent and pit vents help regulate temperature, but if it is pouring rain, the open pit vents may allow a bit of water in. For absolute water control, Scotchguard might be a good idea.
Whether I’m shooting photos, shredding, or both, the Dakine Blitz is the perfect choice for handling inclement fall weather.
MSRP: $150 US / $180 CDN.
A big thanks to the folks at Dakine for sending down the Blitz for review.
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