The Hydra Thermagraph is one of 686's most popular insulated jackets. It comes up in Reddit threads again and again when riders ask for a warm jacket that does not cost as much as Gore-Tex.
This review covers how warm it is, how it fits and the two design details some owners dislike.
What It Is: A Body-Mapped Insulated Jacket
Thermagraph is 686's name for body-mapped insulation. The jacket puts more insulation where your body loses the most heat, such as the chest and back, and less where you need to move or vent. It also has an offset front zipper that sits to one side instead of in the middle. The GLCR label is 686's premium line.
Unlike a shell (a waterproof outer layer with no insulation), the Hydra is an insulated jacket. One owner says its waterproofing is rated at 20K, which is good for an insulated jacket at this price.
On the Hill: Warm Core, Long Life
Warmth is the main draw. One owner wears it with just a wool base layer and is comfortable on chairlifts at about 20F. They say anything colder would need more layers. Owners agree that at -25C (-13F), you need a base layer and a puffy mid layer under any jacket.
Durability gets strong reports. One owner has had theirs for four seasons and well over 100 days. A rider in the Pacific Northwest has had zero issues after two seasons and loves it. Another owner has had theirs for a few years, has no complaints and says they will buy another one when it wears out.
Where It Falls Short
Cold arms come up in owner threads. One owner found their arms got cold even with a base layer and a mid layer, and was thinking about returning it. Another owner wore it at about -15C (5F) and found their chest toasty but their arms a little cold, so they added a sweater. Other owners say they have never noticed it, so it seems to vary from rider to rider.
The hood is small. One owner says you cannot wear it over a helmet. They also find that the offset zipper flap slaps their face on windy days.
The Sizing Question
The Hydra does not stretch. An owner with four seasons on theirs says it fits the same as on day one. Owners say it is cut on the loose side and most tell you to size up if you are between sizes, so you have room for layers. One rider who chose the smaller size regretted it, and the next season sized up to a large with no regrets.
For reference, owners from about 5'11" to 6'0" and 180 to 190 lb say a large fits well. A 6'2" owner at about 190 lb found the XL a little baggy but fine.
Who Should Buy It
Buy the Hydra Thermagraph if you want a warm, long-lasting insulated jacket for normal winter days and you like a loose fit.
Look elsewhere if your arms run cold, if you want a hood that fits over your helmet, or if you prefer a shell and separate layers.
Alternatives
The 686 Gore-Tex GT Thermagraph Jacket is 686's step-up option with a Gore-Tex membrane. One Hydra owner was thinking about swapping theirs for the GT.
Verdict
The 686 GLCR Hydra Thermagraph is a warm, durable insulated jacket that many owners would buy again. Some riders find the arms cold, and the hood will not fit over a helmet. Size up if you are between sizes, and add a mid layer on very cold days.
