Mountain Hardwear Backcountry Recon Parka - Men's

Got to wear this last weekend on a snowshoe/climb up on Mt. Hood to about 9100 foot level. This jacket did well in an ever-changing environment. Stayed cool due to pit zips and construction and yet warm when as needed from wind and cold. One complaint/concern is the zipper can be difficult to operate. You really need to have things lined up well to operate easily. This seems to be a common complaint with Mountain Hardwear products. Over all happy with product.

I love the brand. My disappointment came from realizing the jacket wasn't constructed with higher priced GOR-TEX fabric. Of course, it's half the price. It is also fully comparable, extremely light-weight, and finally, well designed. I've stayed dry is several downpours, and look forward to the jacket becoming my main winter jacket. The light-weight makes it extremely good for layering. The jacket is long, 2 interior pockets, 3 exterior pockets, good venting, roll-up hood, and soft material around the chin-zip. A nice addition would be a sleeve pocket. If you can get this jacket, do it. You will not be sorry. If you want to spend twice the price for GORTEX, you can do that as well. But, I do not think you'll get a better jacket.

The jacket was great! Took on a summit attempt on Mt. Rainier and it was perfect for cold, windy and wet conditions. Super light, plenty of storage, good breathability.

Most of my time outdoors is spent rock climbing, hiking, and camping. This shell has proven itself worthy on all of these activities. The reinforced shoulders are a must for hiking when you've got a heavy pack on. I've spent all day outside in a cold, windy, raining campsite and this jacket kept me dry and warm. I've done some chimney climbs in this jacket, and not only did I have complete freedom of movement, but the shell doesn't have a scratch on it. Here is a bomb-proof way to layer that works well for me down to about 15F: Patagonia midweight long sleeve, Mountain Hardwear Windstopper tech fleece, and top it off with the Recon Parka.

The recon has dealt with everything the Adirondacks have thrown at it in spring, summer and fall, including -15F and snow. I compare it favorably to other 3-ply Gore-Tex parkas I’ve owned from TNF and MH. It's light enough to carry in your backpack all year long. The two side pockets are a nuisance sometimes, but it’s a weight/cost tradeoff I guess.