We’ve been talking a lot about the new Black Diamond jackets coming this September, and we’ll admit it — we’re excited about them. But we haven’t really shared the details, so maybe it’s not clear why we’re so excited. Let’s do that now! Here is a look at our 10 favorites (well, OK, 11) from the outerwear line that’s about to blow your mind.
Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Hybrid Jacket
This is the flagship piece, and I’m not sure I can say it any better than Black Diamond does in their description: “(for) non-stop movement through mixed conditions with a combination of hardshell protection and softshell flexibility.” Yes, that.
High-end Schoeller C_Change laminate up front, breathable stretch panels on the back and sides of the jacket. THE backcountry ski jacket. Watch the video, too.
Black Diamond Dawn Patrol LT Jacket
The Dawn Patrol LT Shell is the no-BS, stripped-down version of the Dawn Patrol Hybrid. Perhaps better suited for days when conditions aren’t quite so heinous, here the Schoeller stretch softshell is used throughout the jacket — which means maximum flexibility and just the right amount of protection.
Stripped down but not spartan, with an assortment of smartly-designed pockets including zippered hand pockets.
Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Touring Pant
We don’t recommend ski touring without pants, so you’re going to need these. Gusseted and made from a Schoeller stretch-woven softshell, these also feature the requisite kick patch guards, built-in snow gaiters and integrated RECCO system.
These are jam-packed with everything you truly need for chasing powder: two zipper hand pockets, belt-loop waist, adjustable suspenders, two-way zippered fly, cargo pocket, etc.
Black Diamond CoEfficient Jacket
Black Diamond CoEfficient HoodyThe CoEfficient Jacket (and pullover, and hoody, and vest) is probably the ultimate lightweight mid-layer.
It’s made from a super-breathable gridded fleece, a new custom style of high-efficiency Polartec Power Dry that is exclusive to Black Diamond. The hood is sized to fit under a helmet, and the stretchy wrist cuffs are actually functional and comfy.
Black Diamond Solution 1/4 Zip
Black Diamond Solution JacketPolartec Powerstretch is ubiquitous these days, so Black Diamond broke the mold and had a custom grid-face Powerstretch fabric manufactured just for the Solution jackets.
The result? A simple, durable layering piece that moves with you and holds its own as an outer layer for more casual conditions. Oh, and it looks really good. You’re going to want one.
Of everything here, the Crag jacket is the best crossover for those who plan to wear the same jacket on belay at the local crag and then to the bar afterward. A couple of Rock/Creek staffers scored sample versions of these last winter and basically never took them off.
It’s warm and windproof, with a Polartec Windbloc softshell outer and brushed fleece interior. Comfortable wrist cuff, internal pocket for your phone or iPod, drawcord hem.
Black Diamond Access Hybrid Hoody
Black Diamond Access Hybrid JacketThe Access Hybrid Hoody is basically the fast-and-light sibling of the highly-anticipated Stance Belay Parka, meant for mixed conditions or stop-and-go climbing.
Like its big brother, the insulation here is warm, compressible Primaloft One. Stretch-woven Schoeller side panels move with you and help regulate body temperature. Versatile & efficient.
Black Diamond Stance Belay Parka
This is THE belay jacket, kids. The Stance Belay Parka is packed full of Primaloft Synergy, an incredibly-compressible & warm synthetic insulation originally designed for sleeping bags — which means that, even when wet, you’ll feel like you’re nestled in a sleeping bag instead of tied into a frigid belay station.
Check out the Stance Belay Parka video for more details, design highlights and close-up views.
These styles and more will be arriving at Rock/Creek stores and rockcreek.com within the week — keep an eye on our Black Diamond apparel page and we’ll make a big announcement when they land!
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