Sitting in Picture's Expedition range of apparel is the Zephir on test which utilises high end tech to make a jacket that works as well in the backcountry as it does on piste.
Key to this is a high performing 20k/20k Dryplay fabric. We're fans of this fabric/membrane combo as it offers not only great performance but also a little bit of stretch and a tactile softness which makes it comfortable and quiet to wear.
Inside the jacket, running up the back is Picture's 'Thermal Dry System' which ventilates through the inner hanging layer of material out to the shell, combined with the mesh lined pit vents you get a good feeling of airiness and very little excess moisture build up in the Zephir.
The zips are decent YKK waterproof efforts with good chunky pullers for easy use with gloves on and they provide access to a great range of pockets including a very handy double hand pocket and a lift pass pocket on the left arm.
Fit is a bit closer than regular Picture clothing, more in line with other backcountry kit but nowhere near alpine close and you still get excellent coverage on the cuffs and a low hem which goes right over the bum. Freedom of movement and articulation is always good in Picture clothing and the Zephir sings the same song, you feel pretty much totally unencumbered when skiing or snowboarding even with a chunky mid-layer on.
Picture clothing usually splits opinion in terms of looks, they're certainly bold and if you like the styling, you'll probably love the Zephir, one of our testers thought it was the jacket of the week based on this alone!
Overall an excellent ski jacket offering mid to high end performance and great looks, build quality is also excellent making it one of the better value jackets on test.
