A nice jacket, but too many magnets.

By Rick in Va Ranked #1724 - Men's Ski Jackets October 14, 2009

There is a lot to like about this jacket, but for me there were a few things that were deal killers. I think Oakley tried way too hard on this jacket.

Cons:

1) Instead of velcro, this jacket uses a lot of rare earth magnets. And they are tough to work with. The front zipper storm flap is held by magnets and they don't like to let go. The pocket flaps are held by magnets and that makes me a bit nervous since I'll carry a camera and other gear in those pockets that may be sensitive to a magnetic field. Also, when you walk up to your car to put the key in the door the magnets in the pockets stick to the car door. Imagine if you are putting your skis or bike on the roof rack...Pretty infuriating.

2) the wrist gaiter is cumbersome.

3) the sleeves are very long. Not so bad in the body for layering and such, but the sleeves come down to the very tips of my fingers and when tightened around the wrist there is a lot of bunched fabric.

4) the zipper gauge isn't compatible with any of my inners that do zip into my other shells without any problem. (Patagonia, Red Level, Nike).

5) The zippers are spring loaded - I had to fumble with them.

Pros:

1) high quality fabrics all around.
2) YKK zippers are of good quality...just an odd size.
3) Warm enough as-is for most winter activities without using a zip in fleece. As long as you are moving, you'd be warm.
4) Fabric isn't noisy
5) For the back country uses, it has built in Recco avalanche reflectors.

View Details: Oakley Extraction Jacket - Men's

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes