Insulated Jackets
Product 2019
Woman, Man
We tested the Columbia Wild Card Insulation Jacket with the Columbia Cushman Crest Pants.
We were pleasantly surprised by the qualities of this jacket out in the snow. At this point in the test, we did not know the price of the Columbia Wild Card. Given its thermal qualities and its design, we thought it was at a much higher price. When we checked and found out it was less than 300 euros, it is a good deal for any skier or winter outdoor enthusiast.
It is a soft jacket and very comfortable to wear. Columbia has reduced the down volume by adding a reflective layer inside the jacket: the Omni-Heat ™. While the down quality used for the Wild Card is basic, 500 cuin (for info: 600 and 700 are the sign of good quality and 800 is very good quality), its thermal insulation is very good. Again, we were surprised by its performance. In cold weather and windy conditions the Columbia Wild Card is fully equipped to keep you warm, especially on a chairlift in January. One good point: we didn’t notice any feathers poking out at the rare seams. The Columbia Wild Card is a design based on one-piece panels, so the risk of down leaking out through the seams is very limited.
The outside of the jacket provides a great “waffle” appearance.
Probably the downside of this insulation, is that there is less breathability. If you get hotter (climbing up a ski slope for example), you must open the jacket to evacuate excess heat. If you do make an effort, you quickly feel sweat trickle down your back. For classic skiing use, it is highly recommended in cold conditions.
The fabric panels maybe waterproof, but the seams don’t seem to be, after exposure to rain, water creeps in: around the arms, on the back edges…
In our opinion the other strong point of the Columbia Wild Card is its high and very comfy collar. Soft and warm, it cuts out the wind and never hinders any head movements.
The hood is also very warm and cozy. To adjust it with the lateral elastic stoppers, but you need to take off your gloves. A Velcro® tab on the back of the head also adjusts the hood’s volume.
The hood is removable and will not fit over a helmet.
The snow skirt is adjustable and attaches with to two very powerful snaps. It is very tight at the waist and not removable. We liked both the size settings because the elastics are thick and the adjustment system is practical. The classic central zip slides well and the cursor does not rub against your chin when the jacket is closed.
The Columbia Wild Card is an insulated down jacket that is ideal for cold conditions. Very soft and comfortable, although it is not very waterproof. Its reasonable price makes it an interesting product for outdoor enthusiasts.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
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