Outdoor Research Rain Jacket Review

This jacket doesn t have pit zips but its thin shell fabric and goretex active membrane more than makeup for it and the optimizer is one of the.

Outdoor research rain jacket review. One interesting alternative is black diamond s fineline this jacket uses a 2 5 layer construction with built in stretch and has a similar trim fit. This design creates the most significant pit vents of any rain jacket we tested. In 2020 their updated helium rain jacket and rain pants offer a better fit improved waterproofing and durability and are even lighter weight than. While we wouldn t necessarily call it an all around jacket it s more versatile than you might think.

It possesses a few key features to distinguish it among the backpacking class of rainwear which help catapult it to the top of the heap for gear aficionados. The outdoor research apollo jacket is an inexpensive but fully featured waterproof breathable rain jacket that can be used year round for hiking and backpacking. The outdoor research foray is a unique rain jacket in a sea of bright feature laden super light rain jackets. The outdoor research helium s combination of 159 price tag 6 ounce weight and full waterproofing put it in a unique spot in the market most of its rain jacket competitors are either more expensive or quite a bit heavier.

This is helpful for. It uses torsoflo the name for outdoor research s full length zippered vents which run the whole length of the wearer s torso under the arm to nearly the wearer s elbow. Priced at 99 dollars but often available for less it compares favorably with other value priced rain jackets like the marmot precip and patagonia torrentshell jackets the apollo has a fully adjustable hood 10 long pit zips. Running hiking or ski touring in cold rain or heavy wet snow is the optimizer s forte.

Shop men s rain jackets by outdoor research. They also separate into a poncho if you need complete ventilation. The helium line from outdoor research has set the standard in lightweight and packable rain shells for backcountry adventures and travel for years. The new insanely light and compact outdoor research helium rain jacket practically disappears in your pack like no other model can.

Waterproof breathable and lightweight jackets designed to keep you dry from the inside out. It s a great option for most backpackers hikers climbers and trail runners who are likely to carry their rain jacket in their pack the majority of the time. It manages to offer respectable stormworthiness and the extended water resistance you d expect from a rain jacket but with the weight and packability of a wind shirt. The outdoor research optimizer is for lack of a better word the optimal jacket for folks who need bombproof weather protection while constantly on the move.