Xion Protective Gear Freeride Jacket 2019 - 2015 Review by The Good Ride

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The Xion Protective Gear Freeride Jacket is one of the best choices you can make for protecting the vital areas of your upper body while snowboarding.  It’s super low profile but at the same time doesn’t compromise when it comes to protecting you.

Ethics Statement: We don’t get paid by the manufacturer to write these reviews.  No one is perfect and we do make money from the “Where To Buy” links below, but this is our best attempt at an honest and objective review from an average riders’ perspective.

Size: Large
James’ Specs:
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 185 lbs
Chest: 44”
Neck: 16″
Torso Length (collar bone to pant line) 23”
Shoulder Width (widest point of shoulders) 22”
Arm Length (pit to wrist) 19.5”

Fit: Really good fit and it seems to conform to my not quite normal build.  My only complaint about the fit is the way the sleeves fit around the wrist.  The thick elastic band feels to tight and it’s a little awkward getting it on over a first layer which is how I like to wear it so if I’m stopping for lunch or drinks I can take it off. It would be better to see a thumb loop instead.

Construction: Really solid construction with some really strong stitching going on.  This jacket does not look like it will fall apart and the material is very sturdy.

Breathability: The material is all about being sturdy but at the same time it breathes well.  The mesh really helps in the pits and the inside of the elbows where you radiate a lot of heat.

Protection: It’s got about everything you need for when you ride and it makes for a great upper body protection when snowboarding.  I’d like to see a wider and longer back protector because I have a longer torso for my size than most but it’s not a deal breaker by any means.

Overall: This is the best jacket I have found out there for snowboarding.  No one knows you are wearing protection but even better these Xion jackets have really saved my ass many times now and kept me riding when I would normally be looking for some Percocet.