Icebreaker Blast Jacket Review

April 26, 2013
Icebreaker Blast Jacket
GEAR INSTITUTE RATINGS
69
Weather Resistance
7
Breathability
5
Mobility & Comfort
5
Weight
3
Attention to Detail
6
Value
3

The Good

  • Merino lining is very luxurious
  • Resists odor build-up
  • Attractive styling

The Bad

  • Poor water repellency
  • Awkward patterning in sleeves
  • Heavy
  • Expensive
THE VERDICT

Too heavy and clunky to perform well as a running/cycling jacket, the Blast is better suited to casual wear on chilly days.

FULL REVIEW

Weather Resistance
The Blast is a super-warm jacket, thanks both to its windproof paneling and soft woolen lining, but its water-resistance is terrible. I felt wet at the shoulder, hip, and forearms after less than 5 minutes in a light rain on what turned out to be a very short jog in early December.

Breathability
This jacket’s thick Merino wool holds heat extremely well, and its windproof membrane allows for very little ventilation; unless there’s a strong breeze at the user’s back, the Blast can overheat quickly.

Mobility & Movement
The Blast was very comfortable while standing still. While moving, however, the large disparity between the stretchiness of its materials resulted in awkwardness and discomfort, especially at the elbows.

Weight
Very heavy for an aerobic-style jacket.

Attention to Detail
On the plus side, Icebreaker’s merino fabric and fashion-forward zips keep the Blast looking sharp. Unfortunately, bulky hem-adjustment and top-of-shoulder seaming, along with the absence of thumb loops at the cuffs, were noticeable misses that adversely affected performance.

Value
At this price (and weight) the Blast should come equipped with a built-in media player and some flashing safety lights. Seriously, though, this is an expensive jacket that is not particularly well-suited to most running or cycling applications.

 


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