Volcom Melancon GORE-TEX Jacket Review
By: Brittany Mellander, Assistant Buyer | August 31, 2022
The Lowdown
All the pockets! The Volcom Melancon is loaded with pockets and tech, but still is fashionable. I like to ride with a backpack sometimes, but when I don’t it’s great to have all the pockets to fit all my things. I am super excited to see a unisex jacket that anyone can wear. Typically, I am more of a regular fit shell type person, but this time around I wanted something more comfortable and loose. This jacket is awesome. It has plenty of room to make you feel comfortable and not constricted in any way. I've mostly been riding it without the hood, which is removable. I mostly wear a size small or medium when it comes to my outerwear. I probably could have gone with the extra small, as it is unisex, but I am really happy with the fit of it.
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Technical Details
Let’s talk about the things most people don't think about when looking at outerwear: the tech. This jacket has so many great features to help you have the best time on the mountain. With its 2-layer GORE-TEX shell and soft, moisture-wicking taffeta lining, the Melancon Jacket is poised to keep you dry and warm even on those really wet days in the PNW.
Beyond protection, however, this jacket is loaded with subtle yet much appreciated features: ample pocketing for on-the-go storage, mesh-lined zippered vents to ditch excess heat, a fully removable hood and a removable powder skirt. As far as fit goes too, this jacket has what Volcom is calling Des Fit which they describe as "a very relaxed unisex fit by Volcom team rider Desiree Melancon."
| Face Fabric | Stretch 2-Layer Recycled Polyester + PFCec-Free DWR |
| Membrane | GORE-TEX |
| Insulation | n/a |
| Fit | Des Fit (Unisex) |
| Seam Sealing | Fully Taped |
| Powder Skirt | Removable |
| Hood Type | Removable |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
Ride Impressions
It feels like you aren’t wearing a snowboard/ski jacket at all. The Volcom Melancon Jacket just feels like a regular jacket. The mobility you get from this jacket is unmatched. If you have watched Desiree Melancon ride before, you can see she gets real twisty and doesn’t need anything constricting. I am a huge fan of the oversized front pockets with zippers on the side and top for fitting all my things. It’s really great to be able to remove the hood and waist gaiter, which also zips into the pants with Ziptech. You really don’t need much else but a this and a baselayer on your typical PNW 40 degree day. But even on those warmer days, you don't have to worry about overheating, because of the great pit zips.
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆
Pros
- Unisex Fit - Plenty of room for layering while also completely unrestrictive in terms of movement.
- GORE-TEX - Provides top tier waterproofing/breathability
- Removable Hood - Allows you to customize the look/style of the jacket.
Cons
- Mesh-lined pit vents don't dump heat as quickly (as non mesh-lined) and the zippers tend to get snagged.
Who's It For?
The Volcom Melancon GORE-TEX Jacket is a great snowboard jacket for those who love to ride in the park or on the streets. It works perfectly for in-bounds groomer days. If you just want a comfortable jacket that will keep you warm and dry, this is the jacket for you. It is definitely more of a fashion forward and younger style jacket.
The Bottom Line
Bottom line, you can’t go wrong with the unisex style and fit of the Volcom Melancon GORE-TEX Jacket. I highly recommend this jacket for anyone wanting a comfortable snowboard jacket with all the features. Plus, the GORE-TEX really keeps you dry. Trust me, I’ve ridden with it in the rain.
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About the Reviewer
Name: Brittany Mellander
Age: 31
Height: 5'6”
Weight: 120 lbs
Size Reviewed: Small
Location(s): Seattle, Washington
Fit Preferences: A more form fitting kit with a little room to layer. Typically I ride with shell style jackets and pants.
Riding Style: I tend to ride all over the mountain. I do a lot of resort riding but also a little backcountry.