Great function, precision fit, Stoic looks

By Rob de Luca March 5, 2009

First, I am a Backcountry employee. If you consider my opinion moot as a result, I can't change that. What I can say is that I have had and used jackets from every top outerwear company, I live and work in the mountains, and I am hyper-critical of our in-house designs. I try to remain as objective as possible and I hope you find this review helpful. I have been testing the prototype Men's Stoic 2.0 for almost a full season (size L, my measurements are on my profile page), and I am very impressed. It's a light, trim, welded waterproof softshell designed for year-round use when layered properly. So far, I have worn it in heavy rain, backcountry touring in good and bad weather, and at the resort when it is dumping. Bombshell, while not quite as breathable as eVent (my membrane of choice) or Gore ProShell, compares in my opinion to Gore XCR with a softer hand and mechanical stretch. I've yet to experience any soak-through, and it's definitely breathable and durable enough for any cold-weather activity. The armpit vents open smoothly every time when hiking or skinning in the sun. The soft mesh hand pockets fit gloves, keys, cell, and a thin helmet liner, no problem. The hood is cut on the trimmer side with a soft brim and a high neck. My Bern Watts helmet fits easily underneath; higher-profile helmets (e.g. Smith Holt) are do-able, but snug. The smooth tricot weave inner face is comfortable, but does not provide insulation. I usually wear a Patagonia R1 Hoody as midlayer, and on very cold days, a size Medium Siphon Primaloft Hooded Jacket. The interaction between the Siphon and the Stoic is flawless, and definitely my favorite feature of this jacket. The welded seams look trick and perform as advertised. The only gripe I originally had was the lack of a powder skirt, but the Stoic is not a 'ski-specific' shell, and I feel the weight savings and packability are worth it. I should also mention that this jacket looks killer; I receive compliments and questions every time I wear it. It’s a solid shell that fits and performs on the level of an equivalent Westcomb or Arc’teryx jacket, and I’m pretty sure you won't be disappointed. Highly recommended.

View Details: Backcountry.com Stoic 2.0 Shell - Men's

Helpful Votes: 3 Yes