Want a single riding coat that handles everything between frigid cold days and sunny spring afternoons? That is a difficult job to fill. Even with good layering, some coats just don't cut it in a sport that sees 50-degree swings in riding temperatures.
Generally, we tend to go lighter on the parka and bulk up on the mid and base layers. This past season, we tried out Klim's Tomahawk parka, its $320 non-insulated Gore-Tex parka. While it isn't insulated, it does carry more protection than, say, the PowerXross Pullover.
With the Tomahawk, we found we could go lighter on the mid layers overall for a better fit and less restricted arm movement. And it was nice to have pockets again.
The Tomahawk features Gore-Tex technology that comes with the Guaranteed to Keep You Dry promise. The Tomahawk breathes well and has plenty of ventilation, thanks to pit zippers, a covered back vent and other features that make up the Max Flow ventilation system.
Speaking of pockets, the Tomahawk has two chest cargo pockets and two full-size hand pockets, along with two inside pockets. There's more than enough room to stash whatever it is snowmobilers carry in pockets.
We also like the hand gaiters that are built into the sleeves, closing off the gap between the parka's cuff and the end of the glove. Especially when wearing lighter gloves.
Other features we like: removable shoulder pads (removed); soft adjustable collar; the moisture wicking liner and durable reinforced outer fabrics.
www.klimusa.com