After the heartbreak of losing my 9 year old Mountain Hard Wear Ethereal shell I began researching the market knowing I'd not find the same gear from Mountain Hard Wear (MHW) after all these years. Trying not to let the emotions of my loss influence my decision for new possibilities I also had to come to grips with the fact, I'm not involved in the same activities as when I first purchased my dream GORTEX shell from the early days of MHW. I have also learned that MHW is not the same core group, either. Too bad.

After considering options from the top to bottom, $500.00 plus to less than $100.00, trying to be realistic and outfit to my recent needs, I allowed my self to try a technically different product from MHW, the Epic constructed of Conduit Silk? Why not, great pricing, what's to loose?

Briefly, I'm out doors without huge demand beyond everyday work, which does not require that I trek anywhere other than between projects. I miss my heavy-duty GORTEX shell, however the Epic delivers lightweight comfort with room to spare, dryness and a windbreak. The zippers actually perform better than my old shell, however the lower draw cords don't stay as tightly cinched as I like and of course the length could be increased. I'm constantly pulling down on the bottom of the jacket, mostly to compensate for the loss of a snow skirt. Good news, the sleeve length, which MHW is known for is still built in. That's important to me as I weigh in at 195 lbs with long arms and a height of 74, Oh, and I enjoy a few cold brewskies now and again, there's room for moderate brew-belly, too.
So far I've only experienced mild winter temps maybe 60 F to 0 F, the latter requires layering, which works OK and that's using lightweight fleece.
Although there's been no down pours I have used the Epic in blowing sleet and mild soakers as well as windy days. At present, I'm satisfied given that I know this is a light to medium duty shell, with promise and features enough.

I feel that Bang for the Buck, I'm satisfied and in fact I may need to grab one more Epic for the road!

Respectfully,
Joe,
PS ~ I'm not the Plumber