We got to test a lot of products over the winter. We'll be sharing a few of our favorites with you here over the next few weeks. We'll have more long-term product reviews in the upcoming season of American Snowmobiler magazine, so be sure to renew or subscribe today to keep up on the latest and greatest! We're kicking things off with the Peak 2 Jacket and Pant from HMK.
HMK is viewed by many consumers as a maker of mountain riding gear. That view is not wrong. After all, the company is headquartered in Hood River, Ore. and one look at their Facebook page will tell you they love the pow! But their Peak 2 Jacket and Pants offered plenty to like for this Midwestern trail rider!
All HMK gear is designed by snowmobilers for snowmobilers. Being based out of the Pacific Northwest means they ride in a variety of extreme conditions so the gear has to stand up to all that Mother Nature can throw at it. It has to resist the elements, and it does. But that's not enough for a trail rider. It's also got to keep you warm. It does that too. The latest version of the Peak 2 gear from HMK includes a removable Destination mid-layer in both jacket and pants. I've worn this combination on trail rides all over the Midwest in single digit temps and stayed dry and comfortable without a care.
The warmth of the gear is downright impressive when you consider its fit and profile. So many trail riders accept the big, bulky, restrictive feeling of insulated jackets with removable liners. HMK breaks that stereotypical trail rider's gear mold with the Peak 2 line. It's low profile with a good fit, so you're free to move around without a lot of extra effort. There's still room to layer underneath the garments. I ride with a protective vest and appropriate base layers for the day's forecast, and have full range of motion.
The versatility is great. You're ready to ride those warm bluebird days by simply removing the mid-layers from the jacket and pants. Plus those mid-layers make great lounger wear when you're ready to put your feet up by the fire. I won't go as far as saying the Peak 2 gear will meet all your needs on those sub-arctic days, but I'm very happy with it on 90 percent of my trail riding days. I'm confident in saying you will be too.
Cost is $319.95 US (Jacket), $279.95 US (Pant). For more info go to www.hmkusa.com.