Dakine Snorkel Base Layer Fleece Review

Base layer reviewed: Dakine Snorkel Base Layer Fleece (Black)
User specs: 6’0″, 190lbs, size XL
Intended use: Snowboarding, snow sports

Details:
The Snorkel fleece is a must-have performance baselayer on the coldest winter days.

Tech Features:

2 Year Limited Warranty
Polygiene®Permanent Odor Control Technology
FIR Far Infared – Body temperature regulating poly yarns
Cuff thumb loops
Flat-locked seams
Underarm gusset
1/4 zip high collar

Review Date: November – March 2018 in Idaho/Wyoming

Review:

December through February in the Teton’s can be utterly frigid and pretty brutal trying to stay warm. I picked up the Dakine Snorkel Fleece in hopes it would allow me to layer a bit less and achieve increased freedom in movement. It is a bit thicker than most traditional base layers, but it is intended for cold winter days. Even being designed for colder weather, the Snorkel Fleece has a really nice fit to it. It fits snug where you want it and still allows for flexibility and agility on the slopes. It also is coated with Polygiene, a permanent odor control technology to keep your fleece smelling fresh after extended use.

I typically like a base layer with thumbholes as it keeps the sleeves from riding up on you. Unfortunately, I did find with the thicker material it made a tighter fitting mitten difficult to put on.

Another really nice feature is the built-in hood and high neck/collar. On bitterly cold days the hood held up to the elements and was greatly appreciated as it kept my neck and ears warm. The quarter-zip snorkel collar is fairly difficult to use though and did require two hands to zip up. The flat-locked seams and underarms gussets are great additions and significantly helped with range of motion. The gussets are basically a thinner material which still provides warmth but allows for better flexibility.

The Snorkel Fleece construction is made up of 62 percent NanoRed Polyester, 34 percent polyester, and 4 percent Spandex. NanoRed® polyester was engineered to regulate body heat, which improves blood circulation and helps prevent fatigue.

The Snorkel Fleece is incredibly warm. Even on some of the coldest days in the Teton’s, I only wore the Snorkel Fleece with a t-shirt over it and a jacket. This still provided plenty of warmth. I found the Snorkel Fleece to be pretty good at wicking moisture on warmer days. You’ll definitely want a thinner base layer as spring temperatures roll around.

Overall, the Snorkel Base Layer offers maximum warmth and ample moisture wicking for the coldest days of winter. Its price point is a little higher than most base layers but you should not need to wear another layer with this.

Pros