Gear GuidesTravelTips
Language
Dope Snow Adept vs. Blizzard jacket compared | Ridestore Mag

The debate between whether to choose the Adept or the Blizzard rages constantly. Both are iconic fits from Dope Snow and stellar jackets for any mountain adventure. But the two designs differ in a few key ways. And it’s important to understand these differences when searching for the perfect outerwear! So, let’s dive in below.

Quick comparison table

Adept

Blizzard

Best for

Resort, park, powder, all winter

Resort, park, light powder, all winter 

Fit

Regular

Oversized

Insulation

Yes (60/40gsm)

Insulated (60/40gsm) or shell option

Pockets

Media pocket, handwarmer pockets, lift pass pocket, internal dump pocket 

Front dump pocket (pullover design), media pocket, handwarmer pockets, lift pass pocket

Snow skirt

Yes

No

Waterproofing & Breathability

15k/15k DRY Tech membrane, DWR, fully taped seams

15k/15k DRY Tech membrane, DWR, fully taped seams

Style

Zip-through

Pullover or zip-through

Design and fit

Design and fit

The Adept is Dope’s classic zip-through ski jacket, featuring a regular fit with a clean, functional silhouette that works for all riding styles. It features a full-length front zipper, making it easy to get on and off. The built-in snow skirt also provides a little more structure around the waist. The Adept is versatile, streamlined, and ready for resort laps or all-mountain missions.

The Blizzard, on the other hand, is available as a true pullover or zip-through design with an oversized fit that leans a little more freestyle. The standout cowl-style collar creates a unique look. And the generous internal space allows for layering and freedom of movement. With a roomier feel and a slightly more laid-back aesthetic, the Blizzard is a favorite for park laps and spring riding. It’s also the best option for anyone who prefers a hoodie-style jacket on the slopes.

Warmth and weather protection

The Adept comes with medium-weight insulation as standard, with 60gsm of Fellex® insulation in the body and 40gsm in the sleeves and hood. This makes it a solid choice for colder climates or riders who don’t like to layer much underneath. 

The Adept also has a built-in snow skirt, which helps seal out powder when scoring freshies and adds a little extra warmth around the waist. This means it’s ideal for all-season use and tougher conditions.

The Blizzard comes in both insulated and shell versions, giving you more control over your layering setup. While the insulation weight matches the Adept, the lack of a snow skirt makes it slightly less effective in deep snow. 

That said, both jackets offer the same 15k/15k waterproofing and breathability ratings, fully taped seams, and PFAS-free DWR coating. So, you're still getting solid protection against wind and snow, whether cruising groomers or slashing fresh pow. 

Storage and features

Storage and features

The Adept is built with practicality in mind. It features a classic zip-through design and a full snow skirt for added protection. Underarm vents help with airflow, and wrist gaiters with thumb loops give you a secure, weatherproof seal on stormy days.

For storage, the Adept offers:

  • Two large handwarmer pockets
  • One dedicated lift pass pocket
  • One secure media pocket
  • One internal dump pocket for all your essentials

The Blizzard is a pullover or zip-through design with a sleek, minimalistic vibe. This jacket skips the snow skirt to keep things lighter and more freestyle-friendly, but still packs in a solid set of features. The Blizzard’s oversized cowl collar provides extra protection on windy days, and the adjustable hood and cuffs, complete with wrist gaiters, keep the snow out. You’ll also find underarm vents for temperature control.

For storage, the Blizzard has:

  • Two zipped handwarmer pockets
  • One large front kangaroo pouch with a media pocket (pullover design)
  • One lift pass pocket

Which jacket should you choose?

Want a classic all-mountain jacket with reliable insulation, lots of storage, and an easy-to-use zip-through construction? The Adept is an awesome choice. It’s quick to get on and off, has a traditional fit and feel, and comes with extra features like a snow skirt for deep days or longer resort sessions. The weatherproof Adept is built to handle just about anything from the first to the last day of the season.

After something more casual, with a stripped-back vibe? The Blizzard is your pick. It’s available in both insulated and shell options, as well as pullover and full-zip designs, so you can match it to your riding style and location. Plus, the Blizzard’s cowl collar and front dump pocket (pullover only) give it a unique look. The lightweight, versatile Blizzard is an ideal layer for park laps, resort slopes, or slushy spring days. 

Both jackets more than deliver on performance. So, your decision depends on how you like to ride! Good luck choosing. And we can’t wait to see you express your style on the hill! 

Explore more Adept and Blizzard styles for men and women

Related reading: