"From 'Protecting' to 'Moving Comfortably'. The Truth Behind 686's Other GORE: 'WINDSTOPPER'"

**"A different GORE from GORE-TEX."** — 686, constantly pursuing innovation, is focusing on **『WINDSTOPPER by GORE-TEX LABS』** for its latest 2026-27 collection. This series achieves extreme windproofness and breathability, resulting in a remarkably light and soft wearing experience, and has already garnered overwhelming support from discerning users during its early reservation period. Transcending the conventional framework of "protective wear," this choice prioritizes "comfortable movement" from daily life to the snow mountains, truly embodying the brand's motto of **"Product is King"** and presenting a new standard demanded by the current era. 686 Official Online Store: https://shop.likesdowell.co.jp/view/category/ct_686 ### ■ What is WINDSTOPPER by GORE-TEX LABS? WINDSTOPPER by GORE-TEX LABS is a functional material equipped with windproofness and high breathability. It effectively blocks external wind while releasing internal moisture, thus maintaining a comfortable wearing experience. While featuring water resistance, its light and soft feel is characteristic, ensuring a finish that minimizes stress even during long periods of wear. ### ■ How 686 Uses WINDSTOPPER 686 proposes this WINDSTOPPER not as "mountain-exclusive" wear, but as "wear connecting the city and the mountains." Leveraging its lightness and flexibility in design, it achieves not only ease of movement during riding but also versatility that allows for seamless wear during travel and daily activities. Furthermore, all three models released this time offer an excellent balance of functionality and price, taking on a new position distinct from previous high-end models. ### ■ Merits * **Light and Easy to Move In**
Feel the lightness and softness the moment you put it on. Comfortable wear that minimizes stress, suitable for long riding sessions. * **Breathable and Comfortable**
High breathability maintains comfort even in high-activity scenarios. * **Design Usable in the City**
Versatility that allows for natural wear not only outdoors but also in daily life. * **Good Price Balance**
Offers high-end functionality at a relatively accessible price point. ### ■ Demerits * **Performance Varies in Prolonged Rain or Snow**
While water-resistant, its performance in prolonged heavy rain or heavy snowfall environments may differ compared to GORE-TEX materials. * **Scene-Specific Usage**
For demanding environments like backcountry or severe weather, GORE-TEX materials offer greater peace of mind. ### ■ Recommended For * Those who primarily ski/snowboard at resorts * Those who want to ski comfortably in early spring or warmer seasons * Those who prioritize ease of movement and lightness * Those looking for wear that can also be worn in the city * Those who prioritize cost performance ### ■ Conclusion: A New Choice Called "Just Right" WINDSTOPPER is not a substitute for GORE-TEX, but another option to choose from depending on the application.
By emphasizing "being able to move comfortably" rather than "protecting in any environment," it enables a freer style. This series proposed by 686, with its excellent balance of function, price, and usability, holds the potential to become a new standard in the future. ### ■ WINDSTOPPER by GORE-TEX LABS Series **MENS WINDSTOPPER PYRODOWN PUFFER JACKET** COLOR: CHARCOAL PATINA, LIMESTONE, BLACK, UNION SOLAR Price: 73,700 JPY (tax incl.), UNION SOLAR 77,000 JPY (tax incl.) 【Shuts out the biting winter wind. A high-loft down jacket that envelops you in overwhelming warmth.】 A model with generous down volume and high windproof performance, representing the strongest cold-weather gear in the 686 winter line. Its high-loft structure fully wraps the body, providing exceptional warmth in mid-winter resorts or extreme cold conditions. With a design that naturally fits both mountain and city, this down puffer jacket is versatile for everything from riding to daily use. **MENS WINDSTOPPER GUIDELINE INSULATED JACKET** COLOR: MOSS GREEN, BLACK Price: 44,000 JPY (tax incl.) 【Stop the wind, stay warm and light. An active insulation jacket for riders who keep moving.】 An insulated jacket featuring WINDSTOPPER®︎, combining high windproof performance with lightweight insulation. Unlike down jackets, it offers a streamlined silhouette and agile comfort, allowing stress-free movement during rides. This is 686's active cold-weather model, suitable for a wide range of conditions from mid-winter resorts to early spring sessions. **MENS WINDSTOPPER PULLOVER HOODY** COLOR: BLACK, LIMESTONE, FATIGUE GREEN Price: 41,800 JPY (tax incl.) 【Add windproof performance to the casual ease of a hoodie. A tech pullover that moves seamlessly from town to the slopes.】 This active model from 686 fuses the casual comfort of a pullover hoodie with WINDSTOPPER®︎ windproof performance. It effectively blocks cold winds while offering a light and agile feel. Perfect as a mid-layer for riding or for casual wear during commutes and daily activities, this versatile hoodie suits any scene. **■ About Early Reservation Sales** Reservation Period: March 11, 2026 – April 30, 2026
Sales Site: LIKES ONLINE STORE
https://shop.likesdowell.co.jp/view/page/2627preorder686
Estimated Delivery: Around November 2026 **■ Reservation Method**
Eligible products can be reserved with a 20% deposit of the sales price. Early reservation bonus (designated high-end models)