Jacket Reviewed: True Blue size XL Rider specs: 6’0″ chest 43″ (I like my jacket to fit loose)
Mesh-lined venting
Waist gaiter
Ribbed-cuff gaiter
Media pocket
Interior mesh stash pocket
10k waterproofing / 10k breathability
Adjustable drawstring fleece-lined hood with bill
Gusseted under-arm panels for mobility and comfortable fit
Comfortable fleece lining for warmth
Imported
Critical seams taped
100% polyester 3-layer softshell – ExoTex
Bonded tricot lining
Intended Use: Snowboarding, snow sports
Recommended for: A lightweight jacket for layering; keeping warm on cold days when you need it.
Review Date: October 2015 – May 2016
Review:
The DC Spectrum Soft-shell Jacket looks and feels like a hoodie, but has all the features of a snowboard jacket. The DC Spectrum was my go-to jacket this past season. It’s a lightweight jacket, but with the taped seams, fleece lining, and 10k waterproofing, I usually don’t need much in the way of layers. Most days at Grand Targhee Resort, I was good with just a long-sleeved base layer. On those frigid days in December/January, I added a hoodie and was good to go. The polyester feels smooth, and allows the jacket to be very flexible for every range of movement; it fits more like a hoodie so it never really bunches up like some jackets do, even with layering. The 10k waterproofing kept me dry and warm in every condition I encountered this past season. The combination of the 10k breathability and the pit zips will allow you to dump excess heat when needed. There are tabs on the mesh-backed pit zips that pull back the mesh, keeping it out of the way when you zip them up. The cuff gaiters have a thumb hole, which I like to use since I usually ride with mittens. The longer length helps keep the snow and wind out, but I wish the waist gaiter was a bit tighter. It does have DC’s Pant to Jacket interface to allow you to integrate with DC snow pants. My other wish for the Spectrum is a pass pocket; that would be a really nice added feature. The adjustable drawstring fleece-lined hood is large enough to fit over your helmet for those below-zero days. DC changes up the colors on this jacket each year, and has numerous options to keep your style fresh. The Spectrum is a great all-around jacket, with style for days.
Pros
Variety of colors
Longer length
Provides excellent warmth in cold conditions
Cleans easily
Durable
Ample pockets
Flexible
Cons
powder skirt could be tighter
Price:
(4.5 / 5)
Performance:
(4.5 / 5)
Design:
(4.8 / 5)
Overall:
(4.6 / 5)
We caught up with DC at SIA this past January, have a look…the Torstein Horgmo line up looks amazing!