Dynafit Yotei Jacket

Dynafit's latest 3-layer fabric jacket uses Gore-Tex C-Knit fabric and is a well built hard shell that won’t let you down, unless it's super cold, then simply adapt your layers accordingly.  It is perfect on the move in the backcountry when you want a technical, performance hard shell with helpful features.

The removable powder skirt reminds you to “speed up” where the snaps and grip are located. These snaps attach to the Yotei Pants to keep the snow out.

The water-resistant pockets,on either side of the main zipper, have enough room for big items such as your climbing skins (but the interior stash pockets are better suited for those). Your left-hand side contains a pocket in a pocket for additional security.

• Helmet compatible with adjustable synch cord 
• Removable powder skirt attaches to compatible ski pants
• Wind/Waterproof
• Reflective insert
• Wrist gasket
• Adjustable cuff
• Taped seams
• Easy to access vents with backpack 
• Water-repellant zips
• Ample pockets
• Duel adjustable hem synch cords

I only gave half points for value on this one because of the cost of the jacket. $600 US is a pretty hefty price, but if you have the dough there is lots to love about the Dynafit Yotei Jacket. You won’t just look like a pro athlete; you will feel like one too. First, the Gore-Tex C-Knit, 3-layer fabric technology is lightweight, but not minimal, so it breathes but still keeps you warm. Secondly, the design is super practical with just the right number of pockets and features. And the third is style, for a trifecta of quality and design which makes for a first class jacket.  Though the Dynafit Yotei Jacket is designed primarily for ski touring, it works just as well as a resort shell and even as a rain jacket in the off-season for backpacking and camping. 

The venting location on the triceps is far easier to use than traditional pit zips, and the skin pockets just make sense. I would change a few minor things however. One is the colour scheme; having the darker colour on the shoulder would better hide dirt and abrasion from your pack. Also, having access to your watch through the wrist gaskets would be helpful for first aid, or if you wear a GPS/altimeter watch for safety in the mountains. While I don’t think the reflective material is a necessity  on the jacket for mountain travel, it is a nice safety feature and if you’re going to include it, you may as well put it on all aspects.

Overall the Dynafit Yotei Jacket is one of the best ski touring specific jackets we’ve reviewed to date. If you can get past the high price tag then you’ll be more than happy with its packability and features, on and off the trail.