REI Taku Jacket

This other review makes me grin....dude paid $12 for a truly awesome coat and talks about mesh and mice? Anyway, I paid $200 for this coat and I feel it was worth it.

This is not a coat to take an expedition up into the mountains for sure. But when used for the purpose for which it was intended, this jacket is primo. This is quite possibly my "favorite" jacket I've ever owned. The combination of the two fabrics means the 3-layer stuff on the head, shoulders and cuffs sheds the water very well. The non-waterproof material is used in places non directly hit by the rain. This soft-shell material allows for movement and air flow.

This jacket is great for around town use, especially in places like Western Washington or Oregon where it drizzles a lot, but where down-pours are rare. It is also a great choice for aerobic activities such as snowshoeing.

Tired of 3 layer jackets that claim to be both waterproof AND breathable only to find out they are more one than the other? This blending of the two fabrics in a novel way to try and get both. The co-op really came through on this one. Definitely worth $200 (for those of you who can't score one for $12) and reviews also suggest mice would also give a 5 star rating.

This is an excellent jacket. It is very well made and keeps out the rain and wind very well. I have used it through quite a few windy storms in the Smokies. The fabrics are very interesting because some of it is very stretchy allowing full motion and the shoulders and back are more static and rigid giving it greater durability I suppose. I got it at a scratch and dent sale because it had gum stuck on the sleeve, which came off with a little bit of scrubbing when I took it home. I probably wouldn't pay full price for it but, I love it none the less.

Oh and if you do get it, don't put granola bar wrappers in its pockets, because the inner lining is mesh and I've had mice chew the crap out of them trying to get to the crumbs in shelters. :(

See my review on the REI Osmose...everything goes with the Taku too. Added is core vents with mesh lining...will take this skiing, hiking, camping...fits well with fleece or other synthetic insulated sweater added underneath.

Heavier than the Osmose but is also more rugged and looks terrific as does the Osmose. Paid full price for both but they were birthday presents and are both well worth the price. REI brand gear is usually less expensive than a more fancy brand and rarely disappoints. You will not regret your purchase.