Spyder Rival Mens Jacket 2027

The Jacket

The Spyder Rival is Spyder's go-to insulated ski jacket for the skier who wants a 20K shell with real insulation underneath and doesn't need to think twice about the weather. The shell is EXO SHIELD 20K — a recycled 4-way stretch plain weave with a 20K/20K laminate and DWR finish. That's a serious waterproofing number for a jacket at this weight, and the 4-way stretch means your arms can actually move when you're digging out of a crud pile or pulling off a coat halfway through a traverse. Seams are fully taped. You're dry from both directions.

Under the shell, 80 grams of EXO THERMO insulation handles the cold without puffing the jacket out like a sleeping bag. It's warm enough for a cold January morning on the chair, light enough that you won't overheat on the way down. And when you do heat up, the underarm vents zip open fast. That's not glamorous, but it works.

Everything on the Spyder Rival is built around not being annoyed. The hood is removable and helmet-compatible with an adjustable opening. There's a fixed powder skirt with a snap-back so you can ditch it when you're not in the trees. Interior stretch cuffs with thumbholes seal up the wrist gap. YKK AquaGuard zippers on the chest pockets, hand pockets, and center front keep water from sneaking in at the zipper line. A chamois lens wipe lives in its own little spot so you're not fishing around for a sleeve.

What We Like

The EXO SHIELD laminate is a true 20K/20K shell — not a coating that wears thin after two seasons. It breathes well for an insulated jacket at this price point, and the 4-way stretch fabric is noticeably better than stiffer alternatives when you're actually skiing. We also like that Spyder built this thing without PFAS chemicals in any of the components. The mesh goggle pocket is tucked inside where goggles don't get smashed. The center back length on a medium is 30 inches, which is long enough to cover your waist when you're bent forward in a tuck. And it comes in Bold Blue, Indigo, and Strobe Green — all clean colorways that won't look dated halfway through the season.

Fit & Sizing

The Rival runs in a standard fit — not a fashion-slim cut, not a boxy resort cut. There's enough room to run a mid layer underneath comfortably. The 4-way stretch fabric means you won't feel the shell fighting you when you're reaching forward. If you're between sizes and plan to wear a heavier mid layer in really cold weather, take the larger size. If you ski warmer or typically just run a base layer, stay true to size.

Why Willi's

We've been fitting skiers in Pittsburgh for over 50 years and we carry the Rival in-store so you can try it on before you buy. Stop in at any of our three locations and we'll help you sort out the right size and the right layering system under it. If you have questions before you come in, give us a call.