Is the Foundation jacket warm enough for freezing resort days?

Yes. The synthetic insulation plus a midlayer handles sub-freezing lift days. On very cold days add a fleece or down layer underneath.

Can I wear it in rain or heavy wet snow?

The infiDRY 10K shell sheds snow and light rain well. In sustained heavy rain, a 10K jacket will eventually soak through, so it is better suited to snow than downpours.

Does it work for spring riding?

It runs warm for mild spring days. Many owners use it as a cold-weather jacket and switch to a shell when temperatures climb.

How does it compare with 686's higher-end shells?

Higher-end 686 shells offer higher waterproof ratings and more breathability for backcountry use. The Foundation trades some of that for insulation and a lower-key street look.

What should I wear under it?

A base layer and a light fleece cover most resort days. Skip the heavy midlayer unless it is well below freezing.

Is it good for snowboarding and skiing both?

Yes. It is a general snow jacket with a helmet-compatible hood and room to move, so it works for either.

Where is the 686 Men's Foundation Insulated Jacket cheapest?

At 686.com, for $209.95, as of our latest check.

What do buyers say about the 686 Men's Foundation Insulated Jacket?

Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 107 ratings.

686 Men's Foundation Insulated Jacket

Best price now

$209.95at 686.comChecked Nov 10

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit 686.com

686 Men's Foundation Insulated Jacket

Best price now

$209.95at 686.comChecked Nov 10

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit 686.com

Ask our agent about this product

It checks today's price at every store, compares the alternatives and answers in about a minute.

Price facts

Last seen at $209.95 at 686.com on Nov 10.

Our take on the 686 Men's Foundation Insulated Jacket

The 686 Foundation Insulated Jacket is a men's snow jacket with a streetwear cut that hides real mountain hardware. Its infiDRY 10K shell and synthetic insulation handle cold days on the hill and slushy commutes alike. It suits riders who want one jacket for the lift line and the city, and it undercuts technical shells on features while staying warmer than a plain softshell. Owners rate it highly, praising the warmth and the clean look.

Best forResort snowboarders and skiers on cold daysRiders who want a jacket that works off the mountainCommuters in wet winter weatherBuyers wanting a warm insulated jacket without a technical look

Pros

10K waterproof, breathable infiDRY shell
Synthetic insulation adds warmth without bulk
Clean streetwear styling that hides the snow features
Layers easily over a hoodie or midlayer
Strong owner ratings for warmth and fit

Cons

10K rating is modest for deep, wet powder days
Insulation makes it warm for spring riding
Not the lightest option for touring or hiking
Street cut may run roomier than technical fits

686 Men's Foundation Insulated Jacket prices at every store

686.comNew
In stockReturn policy
$209.95Checked Nov 10
Visit 686.com

What reviewers say

4.8 / 5107 ratings

Owners rate the Foundation highly, calling it warm, comfortable and better looking than most snow jackets. Most wear it both on the mountain and around town.

What people mention

WarmthPraisedOwners say it keeps them warm on cold days without a heavy midlayer.
StylePraisedBuyers like that it looks like a street jacket rather than ski gear.
WaterproofingPraisedReviewers report staying dry in wet snow and slush.
BreathabilityCriticisedSome say it gets clammy when working hard on the hill.
VersatilityPraisedOwners wear it for both riding and everyday winter use.

About the 686 Men's Foundation Insulated Jacket

The 686 Men's Foundation Insulated Jacket is a winter jacket designed to blend into city surroundings while carrying advanced cold-weather features.

It uses infiDRY 10K waterproofing, so it can be worn on city streets or on the slopes.

Brand: 686
Waterproofing: infiDRY 10K
Insulation: Insulated

Questions and answers

Is the Foundation jacket warm enough for freezing resort days?: Yes. The synthetic insulation plus a midlayer handles sub-freezing lift days. On very cold days add a fleece or down layer underneath.
Can I wear it in rain or heavy wet snow?: The infiDRY 10K shell sheds snow and light rain well. In sustained heavy rain, a 10K jacket will eventually soak through, so it is better suited to snow than downpours.
Does it work for spring riding?: It runs warm for mild spring days. Many owners use it as a cold-weather jacket and switch to a shell when temperatures climb.
How does it compare with 686's higher-end shells?: Higher-end 686 shells offer higher waterproof ratings and more breathability for backcountry use. The Foundation trades some of that for insulation and a lower-key street look.
What should I wear under it?: A base layer and a light fleece cover most resort days. Skip the heavy midlayer unless it is well below freezing.
Is it good for snowboarding and skiing both?: Yes. It is a general snow jacket with a helmet-compatible hood and room to move, so it works for either.
Where is the 686 Men's Foundation Insulated Jacket cheapest?: At 686.com, for $209.95, as of our latest check.
What do buyers say about the 686 Men's Foundation Insulated Jacket?: Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 107 ratings.