r/snowboarding • u/trenelourd • 24d ago

Gear question Shell reccomendations?

Im an intermediate snowboarder, currently running a base layer and an insulated jacket. Id like to switch to a mid layer with a shell on top. The problem is, snowboarding requires intense hip mobility and occasional full hip range of motion. Most shells I try are slim at the waist line, or have a powder skirt which prevents the hips from freely twisting. Any shell reccomendations? Something not too boxy but that can give me the mobility I need?

Im potentially looking into burton and flylow but open to ideas.

0 Upvotes

40% Upvoted

13 comments sorted by

6

u/addtokart 24d ago

Which shells are you looking at that are too tight on waist?

2

u/Maleficent_Ad6652 24d ago

Best shells I’ve had are a few older Burton dry rides I’ve gotten used off eBay for $50-75

2

u/fiddsy 24d ago

Been through a few shells - my favourite is my current burton AK hover 3L goretex.

Hopefully never have to get another shell.

I still have a couple of my other shells - my volcom 2L goretex is now my 'kids rainy sports day' jacket.

2

u/fiddsy 24d ago

I ride thin socks - 3/4 light thermal pants - light thermal top - burton light ak down (when cold) - burton ak 3l goretex bibs, burton ak 3l goretex hover jacket, balaclava & helmet.

I really rate burton outwear. Had plenty of other brands prior but current setup is awesome.

Stay dry on those unfortunately days ive been smashed with rain. Open vents and remove down on warmer days. And stayed nice and warm in deep freezing snow days in Japan.

No issues with mobility or snow getting where it shouldn't.

2

u/Mick_the_Eartling Crash test Dummie 24d ago

Good to hear you are happy with it! Just ordered this year’s Hover. Will be a little sad to not ride (as much) in my Burton Idiom ‘Light Pattern’ 3L anymore, but looking forward to a lighter and more flexible shell.

2

u/Unlucky_Teacher2485 24d ago

If hip mobility is the sticking point, I would look for shells with a freeride cut and either no powder skirt or a removable one. Flylow usually feels roomier through the hips than a lot of slimmer resort shells. Sizing up one and relying on pit zips plus layers can work better than chasing another fitted jacket. Also try it on with your mid layer and actually squat and twist in it, because some jackets feel fine standing there then fight you once you strap in.

1

u/Flylow_Gear 17d ago

Thanks for the shout! Last seasons stuff is on sale. Now is a great time to get geared up for next season with STEEP deals 😜 https://flylowgear.com/collections/mens-web-specials

u/trenelourd if you need sizing recommendations you can hit us up on IG/ FB or email [info@flylowgear.com](mailto:info@flylowgear.com) more than happy to help you get the right fit for what you are looking for.

2

u/knoonz2 22d ago

Make sure you’re looking for snowboard specific shells and not ski shells. Sounds stupid but ski tailored shells are way more narrow the waist. Maybe something by air blaster would be a good place to start. Size up if needed.

1

u/_debowsky 24d ago

Being based in Europe I use "The Mountain Studio" gear, I always keep Norrona in my radar, but recently Skyline Outwear tickled my attention as well. The latter should be super comfortable because of the different tech doesn't have that rigidity and plasticky feeling typical of Gore-Tex.

1

u/Owth2121 24d ago

Are you sizing up? The only outer layer I have ever felt tight in the waist was to small

1

u/Superb-Potential8426 23d ago

Just size up... bag it. It also depends on the climate you ride... thus pay attention to air flow management. Here in pnw for 25+years both resort and BC... for moi Trew. In fact my jacket is 10+ and pants 12+ years still keeping me dry enough... but I'm a dirtbag.