• Price: £335-£370
• Sizes: XS-XXL
• Waterproofing: 2L Gore-Tex
• Breathability: 2L Gore-Tex
• BURTON.COM

Those who look for the best, toughest gear will know all about Burton’s [ak] range. Referencing the great state of Alaska, this stuff is built to withstand the worst weather in the world – and unlike some other brands, the B haven’t thrown style out the window during the manufacturing process. The Burton [ak] Swash snowboard jacket is proof that you can make something that’s lightweight and tough, but still looks the part.

It’s no great shock to see that the Burton [ak] Swash jacket features some of the best-performing materials on the market. The weatherproofing comes courtesy of two-layer Gore-Tex material with Gore-Seam at every join, with weather-resistant YKK zips throughout. The (removable) powder skirt is also built to keep wetness at bay. Thanks to all of this, the only H2O that can get through this jacket is the sweat leaving your body. This function is enhanced by an inner lining that’s not only comfortable but also wicks moisture away from whatever you’re wearing underneath, making it easier for the breathable Gore-Tex shell to do its work.

“This is for backcountry missions, when you have to balance staying toasty with the necessary free movement for long hikes and kicker-building sessions.”

Super-light Primaloft insulation around the torso ensures that you get a useful warmth boost without feeling like the Michelin Man. Indeed, this isn’t built for the coldest of climates where every degree of warmth counts. Instead it delivers all the heat you could want while on a backcountry mission, when you have to balance staying toasty with the necessary free movement for long hikes and kicker-building sessions.