DK Unboxes 509 Powerline Jacket & Bibs

Blasting down powerline corridors can be some of the most exhilarating rides. These open stretches often present high speed runs, powder to carve around in, and thrilling terrain changes. But because powerline corridors are wide open, you may also be exposed to a tunnel of arctic chill. The same goes for running across frozen lakes and open fields. If there’s wind, you’re gonna feel it… unless you’re outfitted with gear that can stop the blast of cold air in its tracks.

The good people at 509 must enjoy this type of riding because they designed a line of jackets and bibs just for it. The 509 Powerline jacket and Powerline bibs have been purpose-built to accommodate cold weather, aggressive trail riders. With thoughtful insulation placement and solid construction, the Powerline gear is perfect for keeping you warm, while still allowing you to stay mobile on your sled.

Let’s unbox this gear to see what makes it excel for this style of riding.

509 Powerline Jacket

The magic of the Powerline jacket really boils down to how the engineers integrated the insulation. The insulation is strategically placed to keep more exposed areas protected, while a removable vest liner allows you to adjust the level of warmth to the temperature of the day. In total, the jacket boasts 260g of combined insulation. The base level of insulation includes 100g of insulation. On the chest, though, 509 included an additional 60g of low density foam insulation. This not only helps to protect from wind blasting you, but works as a float assist if you enter the water and also impact protection. Finally, a 100g removable vest liner is included for the coldest of rides. Take the liner out for warmer days or more aggressive rides.

The Powerline jacket shell is also purpose-built for aggressive trail riding. It features a hybrid 5Tech material design. 509’s traditional 5Tech material makes up the main chassis of the jacket shell, while their 5Tech Stretch textile is used in articulating areas for great mobility. Everything is reinforced with a 300d Cordura HP textile. The shell is waterproof/breathable with a 10k/10k membrane, which is more than enough for most trail riding situations.

When you look further at the Powerline jacket, you will see other nice touches that make it an excellent trail-focused piece of gear. The collar is baffled collar is taller than normal to create a tight seal to your helmet, keeping the cold air off your neck and chin. A wire routing system and chest pocket is perfect for keeping the power cords for your powered helmets tidy. Large tricot lined handwarmer pockets keep your hands toasty and will lay flat when not in use. Large pit zip vents allow you to customize the amount of ventilation needed on your ride.

509 Powerline Bibs

For the full kit, pair your Powerline jacket with the Powerline bibs. You will find many of the same great features in the bibs that are present in the jacket, including the hybrid 5Tech and 5Tech Stretch construction. The Powerline bibs boast 200g of insulation throughout with an additional 60g of the low density foam insulation in the knees and thigh. Again, the foam insulation also aids in impact protection and floatation assist. The 300g 5Ride protection seat panel adds an extra layer of protection against condensation and the cold while sitting.

Little touches on the Powerline bibs make it an excellent choice for trail riders. One is the unique zippered drop seat and full side zip. This allows for quick on and off, which is crucial for those moments when nature comes calling. Removable knee pads help to protect your knees while riding aggressively, and also aid in floatation. The mid-rise bib height adds some extra protection against the wind and the stretch side panels helps to keep the bulk and binding to a minimum. Zippered hand warmer pockets and a chest pocket provide extra storage.

Better Together

When you put both the Powerline jacket and the Powerline bibs together you get one hell of a trail riding kit for the aggressive rider. The warmth and comfort of the Powerline gear allows you to focus on your next line instead of the frigid temps. As for design, the muted styling is best for those who let their riding skills do all the talking. Be sure to take a closer look the Powerline gear and the rest of 509 lineup at Dennis Kirk.