Jackets

Recent Jacket Reviews

Rab Alpha Flash Jacket

Breatheable, lightweight midlayer that pairs perfectly with a wind shirt. If you want to go light, this packs warmth like few other midlayers... but there are caveats. The Rab Alpha Flash is an outstanding midlayer for active use. Constructed almost entirely of Powertec Alpha Direct, it breathes so well that you can leave it on during high-exertion activity without overheating. Plus, it dries fantastically, freakishly quickly. It is not a general-purpose garment, but it absolutely excels when worn… Full review

Obermeyer Foundation Jacket

I purchased this jacket in the middle of last year's ski season. It has suited me well. It is lightweight, yet warm enough with a couple of light layers underneath. It has ample pockets for everything you need pockets for on the slopes and it is absolutely waterproof. I bought this jacket because I was tired of being cold while skiing and I am very happy with its ability to keep me warm in temps ranging from the low teens and into the 20's (deg. F). I do wear two light base layers underneath. I… Full review

Columbia Titanium Waterproof Jacket

This jacket I purchased three years ago and have worn it in every weather condition. In the military we would call this our cold wet weather jacket. This is my 4th layer for fall, winter, and spring hiking.   Fall hike IAT New Brunswick Trail yoyo Well, since 2018, I have been using this jacket and I use the term Cold Wet weather jacket. It is 100% proof against all bad weather. I would not use it in summer as it doesn't breathe. I use this jacket on the Appalachian Trail and Eastern Canada trails… Full review

Craghoppers Corran Gore-Tex Jacket

A relatively affordable Gore-Tex jacket, with a little extra length than is currently fashionable. I bought this Gore-Tex shell about a year ago and have carried it every second day, in the intervening period. I was reluctant to pay £200 for a new jacket and waited for this one to be available in a sale. I chose a slightly over-sized garment to leave room for layering and to add a little extra length to an already relaxed cut. I really dislike wearing over trousers, except when absolutely necessary,… Full review

Wiggy's Liner Jacket

Inexpensive, super light, VERY warm, great for layering. I bought this liner while picking up one of the Wiggy's 20-degree sleeping bags, both in MARPAT, figuring that for the price and given it was made by Wiggy's it couldn't be that bad. It is a GREAT jacket for low 40s (active) to high 50s (not active) weather, and with a nylon shell or jacket on top of it you're good to below freezing. I'm sure it will help me take my Filson double-mac cruiser to below zero.  If you're looking for an inexpensive… Full review

MKM Tasman Dual Layer Jersey

It's a sweater, not a jacket, but didn't have that option. I'm not sure how I came across MKM (Manawatu Knitting Mills), a New Zealand brand, but I'm glad I did! I bought the Tasman which is part of their 36.6 collection—that being ideal body temp in degrees Celsius. The outer layer is a thick, tight knit wool that does a good job blocking wind and shedding water. The inner layer is possum wool, which is very warm and very durable. It's a unique design that really works to keep you warm! See more… Full review

Arc'teryx Atom LT Hoody

Amazing jacket which regulates temperature and moisture, great fit and comfy hood; have used it in winter high-exertion sessions with a T-shirt underneath, and bad weather with a hard-shell over it. Greatly recommended for all winter outings with a harshell in the backpack, or shoulder season. I came into some additional money and was browsing my favorite website to treat myself, and found a great deal on this jacket; price paid 140$ (in late summer for those interested). The jacket is soft and… Full review

Swazi Kagoule Anorak

I have worn my Swazi anorak jacket in the wilds of western Tasmania and Alaska. It's supremely waterproof, tough, and versatile. Prior to my expedition around our earth I was seeking the best equipment possible. This means equipment that l was dependent on for my survival. So after much deliberation and testing I chose the Swazi kagoule because of its aforementioned qualities: Supreme durability, waterproof, warmth, and compact versatility. The multiple pockets and excellent zips. Specifically… Full review

EMS Feather Pack Hooded Jacket

The Eastern Mountain Sports Feather Pack hooded down jacket is a lightweight, warm jacket perfect for backcountry wear or around town. 5oz of Techdown-treated 800 fill power goose down keeps you warm and limits the effect of moisture on the insulation. A DWR-treated ripstop nylon shell helps keep the down dry. A lightweight down jacket is one of the most useful pieces of gear in my opinion. They’re perfect for three-season use on chilly mountain nights or even hanging out with friends in the backyard,… Full review