Burton AK Setting The Standard In Outerwear
For over 40 years Burton have lead the way in high-tech snowboard apparel, constantly innovating and pushing the limits on performance and protection. Their premium AK (Alaska) line is built in conjunction with GORE utilising their GORE-TEX fabrics, expertise and experience. The result of this partnership is a snowboard specific fit and style that keeps you dry and comfortable in the worst possible conditions.
We take a look at what makes the AK collection so good and why so many pro’s continue to trust it as their choice of outerwear.
Tech
Burton teamed up with W.L. Gore & Associates back in 1997 to start the AK line, answering a call for greater performance in the backcountry. Burton uses GORE's 2L fabric which is made up of three layers; a comfortable inner, a breathable membrane and a durable outer:
Inner
A mesh liner protects the GORE membrane from sweat, oils and dirt which can clog up the pores and hinder the performance
Membrane
A GORE-TEX membrane has nine billion pores per square inch, with each pore 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet. These tiny holes are too small for water and wind to pass through from the outside keeping you dry and warm.
These same pores are large enough for moisture vapour to pass through, so your body's perspiration can escape, and you won’t feel clammy or uncomfortable inside your jacket.
Outer
A hard-wearing outer shell helps to protect against abrasions and tears while remaining comfortable and lightweight.
Fit
The AK fit is a mixture of ergonomic articulated joints in the pants and jackets and a longer length. The articulation has been designed to give riders freedom of movement in typical snowboarding motions, from strapping and bending your knees to tweaking out a grab. A longer hem provides greater protection in deep snow and gives a relaxed look to the outerwear.
Pro Riders
Ben Ferguson
When Ben is not in training or competing in the Halfpipe, he brings his smooth style to the backcountry, boosting off everything in sight.
Kimmy Fasani
The first woman to ever land a double backflip, Kimmy Fasani continues to push the limits, crushing huge lines with effortless style.
Mikkel Bang
Norwegian rider Mikkel Bang has been competing on the international scene as grom back in 2002. Since then his versatile riding has seen him straight-line Alaskan beasts, destroy Japan with Travis Rice and star in his own web-series with fellow Burton Pro Mikey Rencz.
Mickey Rencz
Growing up in Squamish B.C, Mikey had access to endless backcountry terrain from an early age. This natural terrain helped him develop the board control and big line composure you see in his numerous videos parts he produces year after year.
2021 AK Collection
Burton AK GORE-TEX Swash Snowboard Jacket
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Combining classic snowboard style with high-performance mountaineering technology, the Bluesign approved Gore-Tex AK Swash Jacket delivers class-leading levels of waterproofing and breathability. Aimed at riders who are looking for the ultimate in all-weather protection, the fully insulated feature-packed Swash jacket is Burton’s highest-tech two-layer jacket. This makes it the perfect choice for any rider who wants to get out in the mountains without ever having to worry about getting caught out by the weather.
Burton AK GORE-TEX Swash Snowboard Pants
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Sharing the same class-leading design and construction brief as the Swash Jacket, the Swash Pant is aimed at riders who are looking for exceptional performance no matter the conditions or terrain. Utilising a fully taped 2 layer Gore-Tex construction, this feature-packed classic articulated fit pant is neither too tight nor too baggy. This versatile design ensures that not only does the Swash Pant deliver outstanding protection, but it also delivers outstanding levels of fit and mobility. Proof that you don't have to sacrifice function for protection.