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The Blizzard jacket is probably a little unlike any other ski jacket you’ve got your hands on. It has all the right credentials but takes a novel approach to design, which is a real breath of fresh air.
The Dope Snow lineup of jackets is extensive to say the least. With everything from do-it-all coats to arctic-temperature-proof puffers, from spring-ready softshells to backcountry prepped anoraks, there’s really no niche or rider not catered for. So where does the Blizzard fit into things then? Because looking at it, it’s a pullover — and Dope has four of them in the line already.
The Blizzard is a curious number, and one that’s easy to overlook because it’s missing a few ‘ski jacket’ type features. But honestly, that would be a mistake. Because the things it ditches feel all at once superfluous once you ride without them, and the things it does deliver feel necessary and essential. It’s a stripped back experience that isn’t bashful about what it can’t do, and is upfront about what it can — and that’s pretty much anything except waist-deep powder.
The Blizzard benefits from Dope’s own 2-layer shell fabric, which comes with a hefty 15,000mm of waterproofing, matching breathability, and a top-notch DWR coating from the same people who make the famous Teflon EcoElite DWRs. All of which adds up to reliable day in, day out performance without breaking the bank. And on that subject, let’s talk about why Dope is cheaper than its rivals. A simple DTC or ‘direct to consumer’ model means their gear goes from the factory to their warehouse to your front door. No middlemen, no shops, no MSRPs or markups. Just solid valid across the range.
Though don’t make the mistake of thinking there’s anything budget about this jacket. Painstaking care has been taken with its design which means you get the perfect fit to go with its clever kangaroo pouch and handwarmer pocket combo, which delivers ample storage without detracting from its minimalist look. A cowl neck and lined, adjustable hood provide protection from wind and snow, and lycra wrist gaiters help keep your hands warm and your sleeves in place. The only thing it doesn’t have is an insulating layer or a powder skirt. But think about it — how often do you really use that thing anyway?
The only place this jacket won’t do well is in the backcountry. But for everything else, the Blizzard is an elegant, simple solution to everyone’s favourite question: what am I going to wear this season?
If you ask us, I think you know what our answer will be.
Specification
Price: RRP £133
- Dope DRYTECH 2-Layer Shell
- 15,000mm waterproofing
- 15,000g/m2
- Lined shell construction
- Fully taped seams
- Huntsman Zelan 3R ECO PFC-Free DWR
- Microfleece lined cowl neck
- Two-way adjustable hood
- Lycra wrist gaiters
- Zipped handwarmer pocket
- Zipped kangaroo pocket
- Media pouch and headphone outlet
- Lift pass pocket
- Zipped underarm vents
