For the upcoming fall/winter season, Columbia takes its Omni-Heat technology to the next level. The new Omni-Heat 3D promises to add warmth, comfort, and durability to your cold weather layering game.
Omni-Heat 3D technology starts with a new pattern of Columbia’s Omni-Heat Reflective lining with increased coverage for improved heat retention. Then, small pods of soft, vertically-oriented fibers are overlaid to create an air gap between your body and the fabric. These fibers not only feel soft against your skin, but help trap warm air to act as an insulation layer. The fibers also protect the reflective material from abrasion over time.
Omni-Heat 3D is featured in a variety of products for this fall/winter season including base layers, jackets, footwear, and accessories such as gloves and hats. The Omni-Heat 3D Crew for men and women ($90) uses a moisture-wicking, two-way stretch material with the new thermal-reflective lining. Wear it on its own for warmer days of fall and then throw on the matching Omni-Heat 3D Tights ($90) and layer up in throws of winter.
The Powder Keg II Jacket ($350) for men and women is a waterproof breathable ski jacket lined with Omni-Heat 3D and filled with 60 grams of synthetic insulation for added warmth. When boot packing up the ridge to ski down the bowl, simply open the underarm zippers to help with ventilation. The jacket has plenty of pockets for storage, including a ski pass and goggle pocket.
The helmet-compatible hood is adjustable and can even be removed for those bluebird days. Elastic cuffs and an internal powder skirt work to keep the snow from getting in under your jacket on those deep powder days. Complete your outfit with the waterproof breathable Powder Keg II Pants ($250). Lightly insulated (40 grams) and lined with Omni-Heat 3D in just the bum area, the pants will help you shred all day in even the coldest of temps.
The men’s and women’s Powderhouse Titanium Omni-Heat 3D OutDry Boots ($175) are designed to withstand sub-zero temps with 600 grams of synthetic insulation and an Omni-Heat 3D lining. The leather upper is waterproof thanks to OutDry and won’t wet out over time. A Michelin Winter Compound outsole ensures you stay upright even on icy surfaces — made from 100% rubber, it not only offers better grip but is more durable than fiberglass solutions used by other brands.
I tested out many of the new Omni-Heat 3D pieces while skiing in Canada last winter where temps fell well below zero. It was cold. Wearing just the Omni-Heat 3D base layers and the Powder Keg II jacket and pants, I had no problems staying warm outside all day in the freezing conditions.
The fibers definitely feel warmer against your skin when not moving compared to the traditional Omni-Heat Reflective liner. Note that the fibers also add a level of friction, so the layers take a little more effort to slide on and off.
If you are looking to ditch the bulky layers this winter in favor of just a couple warm pieces, then check out Omni-Heat 3D. All the various Omni-Heat 3D products are available now.