Craft Speed Jacket 3 — Men's Cross-Country Ski

Wind- and waterproof fabric made from recycled polyamide and elastane

Light insulation across the front adds warmth where the wind hits hardest

Brushed jersey fabric at the back and under the sleeves helps regulate body temperature during hard efforts

Stretchy panels on the sleeves, sides and shoulders are windproof and water-repellent, with a grid fleece mesh lining for comfort and freedom of movement

Laser-cut perforations at the upper back release heat

Two side zip pockets offer secure storage for keys, wax, energy bars, and other essentials

The Speed Jacket 3 is for cross-country skiers who train hard and want a close-fitting outer layer for cold days. It suits skate and classic skiers putting in intervals at Sovereign Lake, regulars on the SilverStar Nordic trails, and anyone who finds a standard ski jacket too bulky and too warm for high-output skiing. The tight fit is designed to sit over a base layer, so it moves with you on every stride and pole plant. If you spend more time standing around than moving, a warmer, roomier layer may serve you better.

Our team at Fresh Air will help you find the right size and fit in-store at both Kelowna locations. Stop by to talk gear and activity with one of our experienced staff members, or call 250-763-3425.

Q1: How does Craft sizing run — true to size, or should I size up/down (and does it accommodate a base/mid-layer)?
Craft describes the Speed Jacket 3 as a tight fit, so it's designed to sit close to the body over a base layer. If you prefer to wear a mid-layer underneath on the coldest days, or you like a little more room, consider trying the next size up. Check Craft's men's size chart, or stop by either Fresh Air location to try it on over your usual layers.

Q2: Is this jacket warm and waterproof enough for cross-country skiing at Sovereign Lake or SilverStar on cold days?
For high-intensity skiing, yes. The wind- and waterproof fabric and light front insulation protect you from cold headwinds and snow on the descents, while the brushed jersey back and laser-cut perforations let heat escape when you're working hard. The panels on the sleeves, sides and shoulders are water-repellent rather than fully waterproof, so the jacket is best suited to the Okanagan's typically cold, dry Nordic days rather than wet, slushy spring sessions. For slower-paced touring or very cold mornings, add a warmer base or mid-layer underneath.

Q3: How do I care for the wind- and waterproof fabric to maintain waterproofing and breathability?
Always follow the care label first. As a general rule, wash technical fabrics on a cool, gentle cycle with a mild detergent made for technical outerwear, skip fabric softener (it can clog the fabric and reduce breathability), and close all zips before washing. Hang to dry rather than wringing. Washing regularly removes sweat and dirt that can reduce the fabric's performance over a season of hard training.