Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s Review

Let’s Talk About Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s

The Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s aims to deliver performance and comfort for female skiers facing harsh winter conditions. This shell combines durable 4-way stretch fabric with Black Diamond’s waterproof/breathable BD.dry solution, promising a jacket ready for long days on the slopes, both in and out-of-bounds. With features like ample storage, a removable powder skirt, pit zip vents, and a ski-helmet compatible hood, it appears to be a versatile option for variable conditions.

I was in desperate need of a new ski shell because my old one was no longer waterproof and lacked breathability, leaving me soaked and freezing on colder days. I was looking for a shell that offered both protection from the elements and freedom of movement for active skiing.

Upon unboxing, the Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s felt surprisingly lightweight yet robust. The 4-way stretch fabric felt immediately comfortable and appeared to be of high quality.

I considered the Arc’teryx Sentinel AR and the Patagonia PowSlayer Jacket, but the Black Diamond shell seemed to offer a better balance of features and price. The Recon’s streamlined design and ample pocket space also appealed to me.

My initial impression was positive; I was excited to test its performance in real-world conditions. The material felt premium, and the features seemed well-thought-out for a day on the slopes.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s during a weekend ski trip in the Colorado Rockies. The weather ranged from sunny skies to light snow and windy conditions.

The shell performed admirably in all conditions; the BD.dry membrane kept me dry during the snowfall, while the 4-way stretch fabric allowed for unrestricted movement while carving down the slopes. The fit felt natural, and I didn’t experience any bunching or tightness.

The shell was incredibly easy to use; the zippers were smooth and easy to operate, even with gloves on. The ski-helmet compatible hood fit perfectly over my helmet without restricting my vision.

One minor issue was that the chest pocket was a bit smaller than I expected, making it difficult to fit my larger smartphone. Otherwise, the first use was very positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of wear and tear, even in high-abrasion areas like the shoulders and elbows.

The shell remains waterproof and breathable, even after multiple washes. I followed the care instructions provided by Black Diamond, and the BD.dry membrane appears to be holding up well.

Maintaining the shell is simple; I typically machine wash it with a mild detergent and tumble dry it on low heat. The DWR finish seems to be holding its own, but I may re-apply it seasonally to maximize water repellency.

Compared to my previous ski shells, the Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s significantly outperforms in terms of comfort, mobility, and weather protection. The 4-way stretch fabric is a game-changer, and the BD.dry membrane offers excellent breathability.

Breaking Down the Features of Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s

Specifications

• Built with BD.dry: Black Diamond’s engineered waterproof/breathable/windproof solution ensures you stay dry and comfortable in challenging conditions. This technology prevents water penetration while allowing moisture vapor to escape, keeping you from overheating.
• 4-way Stretch shell fabric: The shell’s 4-way stretch fabric provides unrestricted movement, crucial for active skiing and maneuvering on the slopes. This enhanced mobility allows for a more comfortable and efficient skiing experience.
• Ski-helmet compatible hood: Designed to fit comfortably over a ski helmet, the hood provides added protection from wind and snow. The adjustable design ensures a secure and unobstructed fit.
• PU Coated center front zipper: The PU-coated zipper offers enhanced water resistance, preventing moisture from seeping through the front of the jacket. This feature adds an extra layer of protection in wet conditions.
• DWR treated Pit zips for ventilation: DWR-treated pit zips allow for easy temperature regulation during high-exertion activities. These vents allow you to dump heat quickly and efficiently on the skin track or during intense runs.
• Front hand pockets: The shell features two front hand pockets for convenient storage of essential items. These pockets offer easy access and secure storage for items like gloves, hats, or snacks.
• Lift Pass pocket on the left arm: A dedicated lift pass pocket on the left arm provides convenient access for scanning passes at the ski lift. This pocket eliminates the need to fumble for your pass while in line.
• Chest pocket and two skin-compatible, internal drop pockets: Ample storage is provided by the chest pocket and two internal drop pockets designed to accommodate skins or extra layers. These pockets offer versatility for storing various items.
• Removable internal powder skirt: The removable internal powder skirt prevents snow from entering the jacket during deep powder skiing. This feature adds versatility for various snow conditions.
• Adjustable cuffs: Adjustable cuffs allow for a customized fit, preventing snow and wind from entering the sleeves. This ensures a snug and comfortable seal around your gloves.
• Fit: Regular: The regular fit provides a comfortable and versatile fit for a wide range of body types. This fit allows for layering without feeling restrictive.
• Size: XS-XL: Available in sizes XS to XL, catering to a broad range of body sizes. This ensures most women can find a size that fits them comfortably.
• Made with PFAS chemicals: It’s important to note the shell is made with PFAS chemicals. While offering performance benefits, these chemicals have environmental concerns to consider.

Performance & Functionality

The Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s performs its job exceptionally well, providing excellent weather protection, mobility, and functionality on the slopes. Its combination of waterproofness, breathability, and stretch fabric makes it a reliable choice for various skiing conditions.

Its strengths lie in its comfortable fit, unrestricted movement, and effective weather protection. However, the chest pocket could be larger, and the environmental impact of PFAS chemicals is a concern.

Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-performance ski shell. The shell has proven to be a reliable and versatile companion for my skiing adventures.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and durable construction. The shell feels lightweight and comfortable to wear, allowing for extended use without fatigue.

The design is user-friendly, with intuitive features and easy-to-operate zippers and adjustments. There is no significant learning curve; the shell is straightforward to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s should last for many seasons. The materials are resistant to abrasion and wear, and the construction is robust.

The shell is easy to maintain; machine washing and tumble drying are sufficient for most cleaning needs. Regular re-application of DWR finish is recommended to maintain water repellency.

Accessories and Customization Options

The shell comes with a removable powder skirt, adding versatility for various snow conditions. There are no specific customization options offered by Black Diamond.

The shell is compatible with most standard ski helmets and layering systems. I have successfully used it with helmets from Smith and Giro and base layers from Smartwool and Patagonia.

Pros and Cons of Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s

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Who Should Buy Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s?

Perfect for female skiers who demand performance, comfort, and versatility in their ski gear. This shell is ideal for those who ski in a variety of conditions, both in and out of bounds.

Those who are highly sensitive to environmental concerns or prioritize a larger chest pocket might want to skip this product. Alternatives without PFAS and with larger pockets are available, though they may compromise on other features.

A high-quality base layer and mid-layer are must-have accessories to maximize the shell’s performance in cold conditions. DWR re-application spray is recommended to maintain water repellency over time.

Conclusion on Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s

The Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s is a high-performance ski shell that delivers on its promises of weather protection, mobility, and comfort. Its 4-way stretch fabric and BD.dry membrane make it a standout choice for female skiers.

The price is justified by the shell’s excellent performance, durable construction, and versatile features. It offers a great value for those seeking a reliable and comfortable ski shell.

I would personally recommend the Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell – Women’s to any female skier looking for a high-quality, versatile, and comfortable ski shell. If you’re willing to overlook the use of PFAS chemicals and can live with a slightly smaller chest pocket, this shell is an excellent choice for your next ski adventure.