DC Haven Jacket Review

Jacket Reviewed: Dull Gold, Size XL
Rider specs: 6’0″, chest 43″, 190lbs

Fit: Regular
Fabric:
- EXOTEX™ 10K (10,000mm, 10,000g)
Warmth & lining:
- Insulated body [60g] & sleeves [40g]
- Embossed taffeta lining
- 100% Woven Nylon
Features:
- Critically taped seams
- Mesh lined armpit venting
- Fixed waist gaiter
- 2-way adjustable hood
- Hood with visor
- Shoelace drawcord adjustment
- Jacket-to-pant attachment system
- Lycra cuff gaiters
- Articulated sleeves
- Drop tail
- Welded tape
- Internal media cord outlet
- Zip-up hand warmer pockets
- Zip-up Napoleon pocket
- Zip-up sleeve pass pocket
- Internal mesh stash pocket

Intended Use:
Snowboarding, Snow Sports

Recommended for:
A mid weight jacket recommended for keeping warm on cold days.

Review Date: November 2016 – January 2017

Review:

The DC Haven Jacket has been my go to jacket during our cold and snowy start to winter at Grand Targhee Resort. December kicked off with a very cold, but with epic conditions produced by a strong storm track in the region. I typically like a lighter shell and layer underneath when riding, however we had a stretch of extremely cold temperatures and my shell was just not enough. I started testing the Haven jacket during this time and find myself reaching for it more and more. It is far more insulated than most shell style jackets, so I can typically just wear a base layer and a light hoodie under it. The Haven jacket has kept me warm in temps as low as -30 degrees fahrenheit . Even with the extra insulation in this jacket I still found it lightweight and flexible, I have not had any issues bending to buckle my bindings or restrictions trying to grab in the air.

The Haven jacket has ample storage for phones, keys, snacks, etc. It also features a pass pocket on the sleeve but I have found this is a bit tough to zip up after unzipping to show your pass. It has a wide cuff which makes its easy to get your mitts or gloves underneath and has a velcro closure strap to ensure the elements stay out. It also features lycra cuff gaiters with a thumb hole. I really like jackets with this feature as it really keeps the sleeves from creeping up on you. One feature I wasn’t sure if I’d like or not was the drop tail. But I’ve really liked it, it helps keep snow from going up your back if the powders skirt creeps up and gives you a little more warmth riding the lift on frigid days. The Haven also features a jacket to pant attachment system which is compatible with DC’s pants. I also found it to be adequately compatible with my 686 pants. The hood is plenty big enough to put on over a helmet when needed for high winds or other harsh elements. Another great feature is the main zipper has a large zipper ring that can be easily gripped with mitts or gloves.

The Haven is a regular fit jacket but I found it runs slightly large. I normally wear and XL but probably could wear a large in this jacket but if you plan to layer you might want the extra room. The Haven Jacket has pit zips, pretty standard in most jackets now to help regulate body temperatures on warmer days. The Haven is available in 3 colorsways to match your gear and style.

Pros