As the name suggests, Spyder's Hokkaido jacket is aimed at powder hunters and one thing that is immediately apparent is a slightly more progressive fit than some of their smarter resort-focussed offerings. That said, whilst the look is a touch more relaxed, it is still sharp.
The fit is presumably designed with big, freeride movement in mind, and is helped hugely by the addition of Gore Tex 360 Stretch material, which is very effective in giving a supple feel to an otherwise chunky jacket.
Much of the bulk is provided by Primaloft Gold Eco insulation, and the Hokkaido is consequently super-warm. But this could be its downfall - it's almost too warm. We tested this jacket in pretty benign conditions and felt cosy. Crank up the snow depth and the exertion levels of a morning in Japow, and you might find the venting a little lacking!
But it would be churlish to criticise a ski jacket for being too warm. For day-to-day resort-biased use, the Hokkaido is a toasty treat; one of those pieces of clothing you look forward to putting on, such is the friendly greeting it offers.
And what of the price? The woolly mammoth in the room? I've had cars that cost less than this jacket, but I never wanted to get into them as much as I do the Hokkaido. And neither did they feel so reassuring. It's ridiculously expensive, but also covetable, cosy and quality.
