User Review: REI Men's Kimtah Jacket

The REI Kimtah was my final decision after a lot of research this spring. I had a 2005 Sierra Designs Hurricane rain jacket that didn't ventilate well. It was great for shedding rain but didn't have pit zips, so I still found myself wet underneath.

I also have the Outdoor Research Furio Jacket (2006). The Furio has been and still is the best piece of rain gear I have. It is ultra durable and waterproof. It is perfect for bushwacking in early Spring, late Fall, and all Winter. It was however too warm for my summer trips. I wanted something less restrictive and more comfortable.

I tried out the Outdoor Research Foray (Goretex), Sierra Designs Jive (Cocona), and the Marmot Minimalist (Goretex). All, by the way, were excellent jackets. I don't think I could have gone wrong with any of those. The Foray was $200, Jive on sale $190, Minimalist $200, and the Kimtah on sale $160.

The REI Kimtah doesn't have pit zips, which I felt was a must. Instead, it has ventilation through all its pockets. I test drove this jacket on a trail run today. It was 47°F, windy and rainy. With the pockets open to increase ventilation, I kept dry and warm on the inside. I could see on a muggy and rainy 80°F day that the pit zips will be a must. That's where I chose a 4 out of 5. We'll see how my judgement pays off when it get's 80°F on a muggy rainy day this summer.. that is the purpose for which I bought this jacket.

Overall, this was a hard decision. I did end up going for the lowest price and Taro Leaf green Kimtah jacket (it's an awesome color!). It also had felt the most comfortable for my build.