The North Face Kilimanjaro Jacket

It's a shame TNF cancelled this product line, because this is by far the most functional outdoor parka. From skiing to hard-core mountaineering, it strikes the balance to accommodate a full range of outdoor activities. I also own a TNF Middle Triple Jacket (3-ply Gore-Tex), but, as far as shells go, unless you're actually going to Kilimanjaro, the jacket suffices for domestic hiking.

The pockets are better on the Kilimanjaro. The Middle Triple, and the plethora of other "core-venting" new-comers, have weak pockets -- often with fragile mesh as lining to the pockets.

The ripstop Gore-Tex kicks serious butt -- especially compared to the Mountain Light (which feels like a veritable women's silk night gown). (I still can't believe how man folk are duped into buying the Mountain Light for at exorbitant price.) I returned mine for the Middle Triple, but ultimately found ALL that one needs in the Kilimanjaro.