In the world of winter jackets, the Airblaster Beast 3L Jacket and the 686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket are two top contenders. The Airblaster Beast 3L Jacket is a shell jacket that excels in wet conditions and is perfect for active days in the mountains. It boasts a 30k waterproofing rating, excellent ventilation, and durable fabric. However, it has a stiff fabric and a slightly small fit. On the other hand, the 686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket is a versatile piece with a 3-in-1 design, offering a waterproof hardshell and a separate zip-up puffy jacket mid layer. It has excellent details like glove hooks and chest pockets, but it has a baggier fit and the inner puffy layer isn't the most breathable. Both jackets are excellent choices, but the best one for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Airblaster Beast 3L Jacket summary

The Airblaster Beast 3L Jacket is a shell jacket designed for highly active days in the mountains. It's perfect for layering underneath and excels in wet conditions. The jacket is extremely waterproof, boasting a 30k waterproofing rating that keeps you dry all day long. It also has armpit vents and mesh-lined chest pockets that allow for excellent airflow, making it ideal for those who run warm or hit the skin-track for some backcountry runs.

The fabric of the Airblaster Beast Jacket is fairly stiff, which adds to its durability. It's a great option for those who are rough on their gear, as it won't tear or wear easily. However, the stiffness of the fabric might feel a bit uncomfortable for some. The jacket also has a slightly small fit, so if you have a broad chest, you may want to size up to fit extra layers underneath. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Airblaster Beast Jacket is a reliable and high-performing choice for those who prioritize waterproofing, ventilation, and durability.

686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket summary

The 686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket is a versatile and durable jacket that offers great value. It features a 3-in-1 design, with a water and windproof hardshell and a separate zip-up puffy jacket mid layer for added warmth. This design allows for great versatility, as you can adjust the layers depending on the weather conditions.

The jacket also has excellent details, such as glove hooks, chest pockets, and a pass pocket, as well as underarm vents for temperature regulation. These features add to the jacket's functionality and convenience. The 686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket has a baggier fit, which is great for those with broader shoulders. However, it may not be the best choice for those looking for a slimmer fit. The jacket also comes with a removable thermal puffy jacket, which adds value and can be worn on its own.

Similarities

Both the Airblaster Beast 3L Jacket and the 686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket are designed for active days in the mountains and offer excellent waterproofing. They both have ventilation features, such as armpit vents and mesh-lined chest pockets, to regulate temperature and keep you comfortable. Both jackets also have a focus on durability, with the Airblaster Beast 3L Jacket featuring a stiff fabric and the 686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket boasting a rugged fabric. They also both have a variety of pockets for storage convenience.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both jackets are excellent choices, they cater to different needs and preferences. The Airblaster Beast 3L Jacket is a shell jacket, making it ideal for those who prefer to layer underneath. It's best for those who prioritize waterproofing, ventilation, and durability. However, its stiff fabric and slightly small fit may not be ideal for everyone.

On the other hand, the 686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket is a versatile 3-in-1 jacket, making it a great choice for those who want flexibility in their gear. It's perfect for those who appreciate the convenience of having a separate zip-up puffy jacket mid layer and value the additional features like glove hooks and chest pockets. However, its baggier fit and heavier shell may not be ideal for those looking for a slimmer fit or a lighter jacket.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to waterproofing, the Airblaster Beast 3L Jacket takes the lead with its 30k waterproofing rating, compared to the 686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket's 20k rating. For ventilation, both jackets perform well with their armpit vents and mesh-lined chest pockets, resulting in a tie. In terms of durability, both jackets are also on par, with the Airblaster Beast 3L Jacket's stiff fabric and the 686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket's rugged fabric. However, for versatility, the 686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket wins with its 3-in-1 design and additional features.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Airblaster Beast 3L Jacket and the 686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket are excellent choices for active days in the mountains. The Airblaster Beast 3L Jacket excels in waterproofing and is perfect for those who prefer to layer underneath. The 686 Men's SMARTY 3-in-1 Form Jacket, on the other hand, offers great versatility with its 3-in-1 design and additional features. The best jacket for you ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize waterproofing, ventilation, durability, or versatility, both jackets offer high performance and great value.