by Tom Mangan
Canada Goose Women's "Hybridge" jacket.
Canada Goose, maker of ritzy down-filled jackets, is joining the hybrid wave. It's new "Hybridge" jackets for men and women are part down jacket, part soft-shell jacket.
The insulation sections wrap the chest and back in 750-fill-power down, while lightweight softshell fabric covers the arms, shoulders, waistline, and sweat-prone underarm regions. Durable water-repellent coatings help fend off moisture.
Why "Hybridge?" It turns out Canada Goose is introducing a line of soft-shell jackets with no down insulation, which struck me as a major move for a company that built its business on down. The new hybrid jacket is the company's "bridge" to soft-shells. Hey, they had to call it something, right?
They're due in stores in fall 2010 in three versions: Jacket ($475), hoodie ($500), and vest ($375).
Canada Goose has a reputation for creating heavy-duty arctic tundra parkas worn by the likes of three-time Iditarod champion Lance Mackey. I tried the Hybridge on and warmed to its fit and finish, but it certainly felt citified in comparison to Canada Goose's more rugged coats.
The company is also introducing a line of coats for little kids. I can't help liking anything that makes a toddler look like a polar explorer.
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