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The North Face Apex Zip Shirt – Soft Shell Jacket
Monday, December 15th, 2008
The North Face Apex Zip Shirt combines the weather protection of a jacket with the lightweight versatility of a mid-weight shirt. The four-way stretch-woven fabric is smooth and abrasion-resistant on the outside with a plush interior that feels good against the skin. The result? An ultra-versatile top that can be worn as a warm layer under a jacket, over a base layer or on its own in cool weather. A deep front zip adds ventilation and a small chest pocket is just big enough for a snack or a wallet.
Stylish Performer Cloudveil Ambush Soft Shell Jacket
Wednesday, December 10th, 2008
If you’re going to spend some serious cash for a soft shell jacket, you might as well be able to wear it around town as well as on the trails. The Cloudveil Ambush is one jacket that fits in both requirements. The straight cut and understated style looks good, but the stretchy two-layer fabric is technical enough to keep you dry and comfortable on the trail. A wind resistant membrane cuts the breeze effortlessly, and the DWR coating beads water well.
Multi-Season Performance MEC Pamir Soft Shell Jacket
Wednesday, November 12th, 2008
The Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) Pamir functions exceedingly well as either a mid-layer or an outer layer, making it one of the most versatile jackets we tested. The secret is Polartec Power Shield Light, a stretchy two-layer fabric with a smooth weather-resistant exterior and a plush fleece interior.
Athlete’s Best Friend The Salomon Fast and Lite Soft Shell Jacket
Tuesday, November 11th, 2008
The Fast and Lite excels at high-sweat activities in inclement weather. The tightly woven, smooth front fabric cuts wind and light rain, while the stretchy, breathable panels on the back and elbows eliminate restriction and act as steam vents. What you end up with is an ultra-light softshell that packs away easily, but that can also be worn in a variety of conditions.
The Royal Robbins High Ridgetrail Zip-On Pants
Sunday, August 31st, 2008
The Royal Robbins High Ridgetrail Zip-On Pants are versatile enough for hiking, travelling or just kicking around camp. The lightweight nylon Cordura fabric is abrasion-resistant and fast-drying, yet silky smooth.
Patagonia Spectre Pullover – Hardshell Jacket
Sunday, August 31st, 2008
You can take this jacket everywhere for protection, just tuck the halfpound Patagonia Spectre Pullover in your pack and you won’t even know it’s there-until the skies open, that is.
Arc’teryx Alpha Comp Hoody – Hard /Soft Hybrid Shell Jacket
Wednesday, August 20th, 2008
Technically, the Alpha Comp Hoody jacket isn’t a hardshell, nor is it a softshell. In fact, it combines softshell and hardshell fabrics into one to make a comfortable all-season jacket. The shoulders and top of the arms are waterproof and breathable, while the rest of the body is Schoeller Dynamic, a durable stretch-woven material used in the best softshells.
Helly Hansen Storm Jacket – Hard Shell Jacket
Monday, August 18th, 2008
Marmot PreCip Rim Jacket – Hard Shell Jacket
Monday, August 18th, 2008
The Marmot PreCip Jacket was one of our favourites for its light weight, breathability and decent price, but the hard shell Marmot Precip Rim jacket ups the ante for athletic adventures with a new slim cut and stretchy microporous fabric that’s even more breathable. Also added are taped and overcoated seams for extra waterproofing, and a stowable hood with a reflective strip. Worthy improvements all.
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