Wicked Light, Water Tight, But...

By Bushwack Brother Ranked #230 - Men's Rain Jackets February 25, 2008

This jacket does what a gore-tex jacket is supposed to do - it's waterproof, windproof, and surprisingly breathable considering that there are no pit zips. I also think it fits well, and that "Mojo Blue," OR's flagship color, is a good one. Drawbacks: First - the fabric is very thin. This hit home when I caught it on some scrub oak - a common hazard skiing the Wasatch at 6200 ft. It tore a hole in the sleeve, but the ripstop fabric did it's job, keeping the hole very tiny and easily patched with a tiny bit of ripstop tape. Second - because there is no way to secure the sleeves to overlap a short-wristed glove, the wrists can become exposed. Cold wrists while skiing can become annoying, numbing the hands and contributing to a lower core temperature. I'd recommend using gloves that can be secured over the sleeves on a cold day. I'd say this jacket is ideal for touring/hiking in moderate weather, and as a backup in your backpack all year round. It weighs nothing.

View Details: Outdoor Research Zealot Jacket - Men's

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