The AK Cyclic is Burton's 2-layer GORE-TEX shell. Burton calls it the shell you build your AK kit around, and many riders do exactly that.
This review covers how the Cyclic holds up, how it fits and how it compares with Burton's lighter 3-layer AK jackets.
What It Is: A Resort Shell Built to Last
The Cyclic is a shell, a waterproof jacket with no insulation. You add warmth with layers underneath. Burton rates its warmth at 0.7 out of 5 and its waterproofing and breathability at 5 out of 5.
It uses GORE-TEX 2L, a 2-layer build where the waterproof membrane is bonded to the outer fabric and a separate lining hangs inside. That makes it a little heavier than a 3-layer shell, but it needs less care to keep breathing.
The current version adds a RECCO reflector, which rescuers can detect with a search device, plus vents for heat, an adjustable hood, an insulated phone pocket and a goggle pocket. Buyers on Burton's site point out the pass pocket in one sleeve and a built-in snow scraper in the other.
On the Hill: Pockets, Room and Breathability
Owners like the pockets and the room for layers. One owner rates the Cyclic over all their other jackets and called it functional, breathable and good looking, with tons of pockets including one for your phone.
Another rider said it is their favorite jacket and they love everything about it. A rider who has owned both the Cyclic and the Volcom Guide said the Cyclic is the better resort jacket because it has creature comforts like a pass pocket on the arm and a key clip.
The hood is roomy. One owner said it will probably fit over your helmet.
Where It Excels
The Cyclic shines for riders who ride often and want one shell for years. One owner has 10 years on their Cyclic at about 100 days a season and said it is still going strong. Another rider has worn theirs for 15 years.
The warranty comes up in almost every thread. Burton backs AK gear with a lifetime warranty. One owner said their AK jacket fell apart after 18 years and Burton still replaced it. Another said the gear is legit and so is the warranty.
Where It Falls Short
There are no wrist gaiters, the stretchy cuffs inside the sleeve that seal out snow. Most owners don't mind. One said they tighten the sleeve or their mitt instead, and another prefers not having gaiters under their mittens. If you ride a lot of deep powder, you may miss them.
Quality gets mixed reports. One rider said their Cyclic was falling apart after about 20 days and called it one of their worst gear purchases. Another said their AK 2L jacket started to lose its waterproofing by its second season of resort use. A rider who rode AK gear for years said the quality is not what it used to be and switched to Arc'teryx.
The Sizing Question
You'll find this question in most Cyclic threads. Owners agree it runs roomy, with long arms. One rider found the medium too big with arms way too long and bought a small. Another owner said the large left them swimming and the medium was plenty baggy.
Not everyone sizes down. Some riders size up on purpose so a shell never feels tight over layers, and one owner who wears a medium said it gets crowded on very cold days.
Here's the take from owners: Burton's sizing chart is a good start, but try one on if you can. Size down if you want a closer fit, and stay true to size if you layer heavily.
Pro tip: Burton changed the cut for the newest version. One buyer said the waist is less tapered and the fit is looser than before, so don't rely on the size of an older Cyclic.
Who Should Buy It
Buy the AK Cyclic if you ride many days a season, want a dependable shell with lots of pockets and value a warranty that lasts.
Look elsewhere if you want a light, stretchy 3-layer shell, an insulated jacket or wrist gaiters for powder days.
Alternatives
The Burton AK Hover GORE-TEX 3L Jacket is the lighter, stretchier 3-layer AK shell. A rider who upgraded from a 15-year-old Cyclic couldn't believe how much thinner and lighter it is.
The Airblaster Guide Shell costs much less, and one rider who switched from pricier gear went with it for their next jacket.
The Volcom L Insulated GORE-TEX Jacket adds light insulation and Volcom's jacket-to-pants zipper. Read our full Volcom L Insulated GORE-TEX Jacket review.
Verdict
The Burton AK Cyclic is a proven resort shell with smart pockets, room for layers and a lifetime warranty that owners say Burton honors. It runs roomy, has no wrist gaiters, and some recent owners had durability problems. If you ride a lot and want one shell for many seasons, it is still the benchmark many riders compare against.
