686, a 24 year old independent technical apparel brand from California, may have flown a bit under the radar for some time. However, the introduction of their new GLCR outerwear capsule and the signing of their first ski athlete ever, Parker White, have brought about a lot of talk lately for this brand once thought of as “just a small snowboard apparel brand.” Below is a deeper dive into the rabbit hole that is 686 GLCR.
“All 686 GLCR technical apparel is purpose driven,” explains 686 founder and CEO Michael Akira West. “For each garment, we start with the ‘why’ and then we design to that.”
The 686 team, including current Swatch Freeride World Tour Champion Sammy Luebke, former Powder Award winner Parker White and off-the-grid homesteaders Sean and Mollie Busby are integral in the design process. They bring thousands of hours of experience in the backcountry into the process and are able to help refine 686’s fits and features for optimal performance.
Beyond aesthetics, 686 has introduced exclusive technologies into key products for the current season to keep you warm and dry in every situation.
The GLCR GORE-TEX® SMARTY® 3-in-1 Weapon Jacket and Pants are some of the only GORE-TEX® 3-in-1 products on the market today. A 2-Layer GORE-TEX® shell protects you from the elements while the removable body-mapped Primaloft® insulated vest or fleece pants provides an extra layering option for colder days.
For those who want the most versatile insulation, 686 combines the best of shell and insulated garments into their Thermagraph™ Technology. Found in both their men’s and women’s GLCR products, the Thermagraph™ insulation system places 100% responsible down or 686 Hyperfill polyester insulation around your vital organs, knees and seat and surrounds these areas with a breathable mesh. This creates zones of warming and cooling throughout the body to keep your temperature just right, no matter how much you move around.
Professional Snowboarder Matt Belzile poses in the 686 GLCR Hydra Jacket featuring Thermagraph™ technology and a unique asymmetrical zipper.
Not just for the guys. 686’s women’s GLCR range is quite impressive as well.
Even off the mountain 686 has created well thought out insulator options. The men’s GLCR Avenue Down Parka both feature 686’s 20k waterproof infiDRY fabric on the hoods and shoulder panels (where snow/water collects most) so your down has less chance of getting wet.
With so many options in their GLCR collection for snowboarders and skiers alike, 686 should be on the top of anyone’s list who is looking for functional, stylish gear.
