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- Testing Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell & Ski Pant
Julia – Customer Service & Operations Executive // Tested in Voss & Myrkdalen, Norway
After checking the forecast for my upcoming trip to the Norwegian resorts of Voss and Myrkdalen (spoiler – wet and wild), I was delighted to be offered the chance to trial some of Black Diamondโs latest kit. Up until now, Iโve mostly worn ski outfits based on style rather than substance – pieces I considered to look good but didnโt really hold up technically. This gear was a complete game-changer. Not only did it look sleek with its subtle, stylish blue colourway, but it was easily some of the most comfortable and practical skiwear Iโve ever worn.
What stood out most about the Recon Stretch Ski Shell was how impressively waterproof it was. While Iโm sure it boasts a whole range of other high-performance features, staying bone dry through hours of heavy rain made that its most memorable quality for me. The exterior was absolutely drenched, but I stayed completely dry underneath. This being said, I definitely should have worn a few extra layers, as I found myself getting a bit chilly on the chairlifts. I had on a thermal top and my Ski Club fleece, but one more layer wouldโve made a big difference. The jacket provides excellent freedom of movement on the slopes, but warmth isnโt its strong suit – though to be fair, thatโs intentional, as it is designed as a technical shell. Thereโs plenty of room underneath for layering, so as long as you plan ahead and dress accordingly, youโll be good to go in colder conditions.
As someone whoโs 5’3″, I found the jacket ran quite large even in a size small – a heads-up if you’re between sizes and planning to layer. I’d definitely recommend sizing down, especially since US sizing tends to be more generous than European cuts.
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These Reckon Stretch Ski Pants are up there with the best Iโve tried. The standout feature for me was the adjustable velcro waist straps. They offered the perfect fit without the need for bib-style dungarees and were easy to tweak throughout the day – especially handy after a mountain-sized lunch. The long side vents are ideal for regulating temperature, making these pants super versatile across the season. Plus, theyโre loaded with pockets, essential for someone like me who likes to stash a lot in my pockets for a day on the slopes. Even in wet conditions, everything inside stayed completely dry. The fit over ski boots was spot on – roomy enough for comfort and mobility, but not overly baggy. Again, if you’re on the shorter side, Iโd recommend considering sizing down for the best fit.
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Itโs easy to see why Black Diamond has built such a strong reputation in recent years. While the price tag is a little steeper than some other brands, the quality and performance of this gear speak for themselves. It truly feels like kit thatโs made to last season after season. After initially being hesitant about how this seemingly thin and lightweight jacket would hold up in tough conditions, I was thoroughly impressed. For anyone looking to invest in skiwear that delivers on both style and substance, Black Diamond is well worth it.
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