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snowmobile jackets

6.3K views 30 replies 20 participants last post by  KDogg5171  
#1 ·
hi guys, im trying to buy my first snowmobile jacket but im torn between a couple. ive tried to do a bunch of research online but not much info/reviews out there and none of my local shops have these in stock. fxr boost and fxr revo x. does anybody have either jacket? thoughts, pro and cons, and is there even a difference between the two? thanks in advance.
 
#5 ·
IMO the only jackets worth buying are ones made with gortex, event, or symptex. These jackets are the only fabrics that are truly waterproof not water resistant like all the others. They also breath and wick away moisture. Keeping dry is the key to staying warm.
 
#8 · (Edited by Moderator)
IMO the only jackets worth buying are ones made with gortex, event, or symptex. These jackets are the only fabrics that are truly waterproof not water resistant like all the others. They also breath and wick away moisture. Keeping dry is the key to staying warm.
I agree 100%. The first time getting caught in a rain storm without either GoreTex, E-vent or Sympatex, you'll know why people swear by it. Cost does come into the picture on a jacket with these membranes but a good jacket will be the best piece of equipment you'll buy with the exception of a helmet, IMO. If you want a jacket that's "truly" waterproof, windproof and breathable, it must be made with one of the above mentioned membranes, not a spray-on water repellent.

One more thing...welcome to dooTalk!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :righton
 
#9 ·
You also need to consider the type of riding you will be doing......trail riding or backcountry. Trail riding normally requires warmer clothing as you will be traveling at higher speeds with the air cooling your body down. Back country riding is slower and more work (but more fun) so you will dress lighter. And make sure you carry an extra coat/liner when you get back on the trail to ride to the next off trail place or riding back to the place your staying on a cold evening. Make sure your base layers and mid layers of clothing are wicking type to keep you dry for any type of riding.
 
#10 ·
I bought a Choko Adventurer about 10 years ago now, and I haven't had any desire to purchase new since I bought it. I trail ride and have been out on extremely cold days and nights, and I've never once been cold. Most days can wear just a t-shirt under it and I'm fine. It still looks good, and I've never had an issue with it.
 
#11 ·
I agree 100%. The first time getting caught in a rain storm without either GoreTex, E-vent or Sympatex, you'll know why people swear by it. Cost does come into the picture on a jacket with these membranes but a good jacket will be the best piece of equipment you'll buy with the exception of a helmet, IMO. If you want a jacket that's "truly" waterproof, windproof and breathable, it must be made with one of the above mentioned membranes, not a spray-on water repellent.

One more thing...welcome to dooTalk!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :righton
This is 100% accurate. We got caught in pouring rain for an hour and a half last season. I was wearing all TOBE/Sympatex gear and I was the ONLY ONE in our group that was bone dry. We walked in to a place after riding and everyone was asking what I was wearing as I was the only one there that was DRY.
 
#14 ·
Yep--What all the other posters said about Sympatex--E-vent and Gore-tex. Even though Gore-tex is old school it still works well.

Welcome to Doo-Talk.

Don~
I fully agree; buy the good stuff, and you'll be glad you did.

Got into the 30's one day on the way to Grand Marais and we rode thru snowflakes so wet and heavy, it might of well been rain. Bone dry and comfortable underneath.

3BADDB01-946A-483F-941F-0E6798F95C91_zps
 
#16 ·
+1 for the Tobe stuff. The only issue I had with mine was that I was too warm on the warmer days.
Those darn zippers though. Opposite sides
 
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#18 ·
I actually share a jacket between the snowmobile and motorcycle. I found a good deal on an older Olympia AST motorcycle jacket. It's completely waterproof, lined, and has great venting if you want to let a little air in. The waterproofing is what is really important. You can layer up for warmth, but if water gets in, it gets cold quickly.
 
#19 ·
I recently went through the same dilemna, I ultimately settled on the Tobe Privus, Mad Sled was, and I think still is, running a sale on a sample run of the Tobe Gear. The privus jackets have a 3rd layer of Sympatex, ultimately they decided they only needed 2 but for the price and added moisture protection it was a no brainer. I personally would recommend going with the non-insulated shell and just layer for the conditions. Being wet on the trail sucks and can quickly ruin a day. Dont skimp on your gear it can be a bit of an initial hit but it will more than make up for the it in the long run.
 
#21 ·
I use a fart suit. Zippers reversed on the coats?
Tobe is made overseas, so the zippers is on the left instead of right. Just need to switch hands when zipping up.
 
#23 ·
i noticed that last night too on my tobe wear when i tried it on for the first time. that is the womens style/side, or at least what i have always thought and considered it. Maybe it is just over seas zipper, never knew that. it zips with the opposite (left) hand/way as many mens style jackets that i own.

it will take some getting used to, actually for me. it is the ONLY jacket that i now own that zips that way.

steve
 
#24 ·
It's not based on where it was made but rather where is was designed. TOBE Outerwear is based in Sweden and in Sweden the zipper pull is on the opposite side as here in the states. It is something that many notice right away; however, it really doesn't take much getting used to.

We are one of the largest TOBE Outerwear dealers in the US ...please feel free to ask here or PM us with any questions regarding the gear, fitment, or any other questions - we are here to help make your shopping and riding experience the best it can be.

Anyone in the Novi, MI area can find us at the Snowmobile USA show this weekend!
 
#25 ·
i know one thing, im definitely not concerned with the zipper on that side, just found it funny when i went to zip it last night.

i can attest so far to the finish and fit of both the jacket and the pants, they are top notch! material is very nice and the color of that red with the gray in my pants and red jacket is freaking beautiful!!

thanks again ken, cant wait to try it sooner rather than later hopefully... although it is in the 60s again in central WI today :'(

steve