Jackets

Recent Jacket Reviews

Montane Men's Alpine Raid Hoodie

The Montane Alpine Raid Hoodie is a fleece mid-layer designed to be tough, stretchy, and unrestrictive. Its best uses are as part of layering system where its high breathability can be maximized during exertion, such as climbing, and the slim fit and smooth face can slide under a shell layer to block wind/water. Thumb loops, a large chest pocket, and smooth, quality zipper show attention to the details of an alpine-targeted hoodie. I find the citrus green colour too bright for my personal preference… Full review

Mountain Hardwear Men's Kor Strata Alpine Hoody

My opinion, one of the best synthetic insulated jackets for your buck. For ease of use and packability this can't be beat. Mountain Hardwear has, in my opinion, always made a nice quality product for the money. Yes, the Primaloft Gold is worth the extra money. Previously the TNF Denali Jacket was my go-to. This is more windproof and lighter and most importantly slips on and off with ease. Not to mention it stays warm when wet...so they advertise? I've always layered it under my shell as the fabric… Full review

The North Face Men's Denali Jacket

Not many jackets can be comfortably worn on your couch watching TV after a long day in the woods...this one can though. Couch comfortable. Great pocket placement. Stylish taslan wear points. Dependable zippers. No surprise USA fit. But, like other reviews, Polartec fleece was designed for cold and fires are its kryptonite...melts like the plastic bottle it once was...yikes. Full review

Outdoor Research Prologue Field Jacket

Medium weight soft shell jacket. Excellent general purpose jacket for travel, work, chores, casual wear. The Outdoor Research Prologue Field Jacket is a good general purpose jacket for mild conditions. It is what I consider a medium weight soft shell providing protection wind and light rain and the smooth looks of a soft shell. Good for travel, chores, work, and errands. I purchased this jacket with cool weather urban walks and travel in mind.  Soft shell jackets provide protection from wind and… Full review

Mammut Men's Masao Hooded Hardshell Jacket

Three-layer shell...Mammut has been tops for me. I have come back to the Masao hard shell last year after owning one when they were introduced. Been through some eVent and 3L Gore-tex. This jacket is light, waterproof, warm, rugged, and fits nicely. This model is cursed with tricky zippers, but once you train yourself to it the rest of the jacket makes up for it. I've had A+ experience with Mammut's staff in Vermont. So to pack away when you want, and protect you when you need, this shell is better… Full review

Patagonia Men's SnowDrifter Jacket

Patagonia's SnowDrifter Jacket is a full-featured snowsports jacket that could be stretched for use to hiking or backpacking. I don't remember if this is right BEFORE or right AFTER I crashed into a tree. Don't worry, the jacket is fine!   You probably want a light jacket that will keep you dry and give you the features you need.  When those needs include a powder skirt, some stretchiness, breathability, durability, and a RECCO reflector, reaching for the Patagonia Snowdrifter Jacket is a smart… Full review

Mountain Equipment Citadel Jacket

First time used in extreme weather at least three zips snagged on their inner linings. Zip pulls "pulled off’"in frustration—winter gloves being worn. Snagged zips, broken zip pulls—steer clear of this jacket, the construction is irrelevant as the zip construction completely compromises credibility. Full review

Black Diamond Men's First Light Stretch Hoody

The Black Diamond First Light Hoody is a multifunctional, breathable jacket that can easily be used in a wide range of seasons and temperatures, particularly on highly active days. It's warm (PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active), easy to layer with, and doesn't restrict body movements, making for a highly versatile jacket. Conditions: I’ve worn the Black Diamond First Light Stretch Hoody throughout the winter and early spring in Pennsylvania. I’ve worn the jacket during high-energy activities… Full review

Helly Hansen Rivaridge Puffy Jacket

Warm and waterproof, but also bulky and heavy, the Rivaridge Puffy Jacket is an uncompromising jacket for cold-weather downhill skiing (and maybe long, windy, winter walks on the beach). It has all the right bells and whistles to keep a lift riding skier comfortable and connected in both up- and downhill modes, but it's not really practical for backcountry skiing. In Norwegian, “uvær” (unweather) is a general-purpose word for bad weather, and here that usually means blowing rain or snow, sometimes… Full review