User Review: Mountain Hardwear Exposure II Parka

Mountain Hardwear Exposure II Parka
Above: The current Exposure II Parka, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed December 13, 2007 by John V

Rating:
Fabric: Conduit
Price Paid: 200 euros

If Mountain Hardwear's goal was to make an inexpensive jacket for all conditions, they succeeded. I have taken mine all over Europe, eastern US, perfect for all seasons. It keeps me warm when it's cold and doesn't make me sweat when it's not so cold. Perfect for wet conditions, it always keeps me bone dry. It has every cinch cord, pocket, and vent you could ever want. In terms of function, I can't find a single complaint.

I also like how there's plenty of room to stuff any kind of fleece or soft shell you have under it. Another big bonus is the durability. The fabric has a nice heavy-duty feel and I never feel like I have to worry about scuffing it up.

However, to every pro, there is a con. The room, and burly construction give it a really bulky fit, and it's much heavier than most hard shells of it's type. You ain't making any fashion statements with it either.

What can I say though, it's cheap, it will last for years and keep you warm and dry. If you're only planning on buying one jacket and you want it to last a long time, this is the one to get. Hands down.