Shell Chart

WEVE LISTED MANUFACTURERS ALPHABETICALLY, wITH MODELS SORTED BY TYPE, THEN BY PRICE.

GEAR GUIDE 2012

Listed products

These charts include 2012 models appropriate to BACKPACKER readers, with notes on some of those weve tested. Searchable listings for the complete product lines of every manufacturer in this issue, plus hundreds of more reviews, can be found at backpacker.com/gearfinder.

Sizing

Mens only (M) Womens only (W) Both mens & womens sizes available (M&W) Unisex (U)

Hardshell (H) Softshell (S) Waterproof (WT) Windproof (WN)

Type

Material

Nylon (N) Proprietary membrane (PM) Proprietary waterproof/breathable coating (PWC) Polyester (P) Pertex Shield (PS) A breathable, water-repellent fabric that uses a polyurethane laminate. eVent (EV) A waterproof membrane that encourages breathability through tiny pores. Hyvent (HY) A waterproof/breathable technology that utilizes a polyurethane coating.

Gore-Tex Pro Shell, Paclite, Active Shell, Performance Shell, Soft Shell (GTP, GTL, GTA, GTS, GTSS) Gore-Tex Pro Shell is for extreme outings that need the max in durability, breathability, and weather protection. Paclite is for ultralight activies when packing space is tight. Active is for highly aerobic endeavors. Performance Shell is the most versatile and available in two- and three-layer constructions. Soft Shell offers freedom of movement in cold conditions. Polartec NeoShell, Powershield, Powershield 02, Powershield Pro, Windbloc (PN, PP, PP2, PPP, PW) Polartec NeoShell is waterbroof/breathable, and reduces overheating through two-way airflow. The Powershield line uses one-layer windblocking fabrics with the 02 model featuring added breathability and the Pro model water resistance. Windbloc is windproof fleece with a DWR finish.

Hood

No hood (N) Hood (H) Adjustable hood (A) Brim on hood (B) Roll-away hood (R)

Features

Pockets (P) Velcro cuffs (VC) Stretch panels (SP) Articulated elbows (A) Full-zip (FZ) Seam-sealed (SS) Four-way stretch (4W) Drawcord hem (DH) Thumb holes (TH) Mesh-lined pocket vents (MV) Waterproof zippers (WZ) Partial Zip (PZ) Conduit (CD) Elastic Cuffs (EC)

 MODEL SiZiNg TYPE MATERIAL HOOD FEATURES

WEIGHT PRICE (lbs, oz)

Arcteryx (866) 468-2473 arcteryx.com Alpha SL Hybrid M&W H GTP, GTL A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,12.9 $339 Alpha FL M&W H GTA A, B P, VC, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,10.3 $399 Beta FL M H GTA A, B P, VC, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,11.4 $450 Hard-charging testers seeking high breathability plus low weight loved this Active Shell jacket, which packs down to demi-baguette size and breathes so well I didnt get sticky, even on humid spring days. One Colorado tester raved, Of all the Gore-Tex jackets Ive worn, this one performs the best under aerobic conditions in foul weather. Gamma SL Hybrid M&W S N N P, VC, SP, A, FZ 0,13 $269 Beta SL Hybrid Hoody M&W S N A, B P, VC, SP, A, FZ, DH 0,13 $269 Brooks-Range Mountaineering Equipment (510) 797-7980 brooks-range.com Brisa Unisex S PM N P, VC, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ, DH 1,4 $130 Isto Unisex S PM A, B P, VC, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ, DH 1,8 $180 Brezza Unisex WN N, PM N P, MV, EC, SS, FZ, DH 0,10 $100 Black Mountain Unisex WN N, PM N P, MV, EC, SS, FZ, DH 0,12.5 $160 Columbia Sportswear (800) 763-1004 columbia.com The Compounder Shell M H, WN, WT P, PM A P, VC, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,2 $300 Hot Thought W H, WT P, PM A P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ 0,16 $140 Jet Stratus Shell M H, WT N, PM A, R P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ 0,15 $160 Jet Stratus Shell W H, WT N, PM A P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,13 $160 Tech Attack Shell W H, WT N, PM A P, VC, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,13 $190 Tech Attack Shell M H, WT N, PM A P, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,16 $200 Flyin Dry Shell M H, WT P, PM N P, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,11 $250 Flyin Dry Shell W H, WT P, PM N P, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,10 $250 Peak 2 Peak II Shell M H, WT PM A P, VC, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,7 $350 A new, proprietary OmniDry waterproof/breathable membrane serves up impressive breathability in a three-season backpacking shell, especially for this price. Testers in Utah, Antarctica, and the Alps also praised its durability in rugged mountain conditions, such as chimney climbing. Dings: extra-roomy fit and a wire-stiffened hood brim that interferes with helmets and upward views. PFG Supercell M H, WT P A, B P, VC, WZ, SS, FZ 1,4 $350

Peak Power II Shell W H, WT N, PM A, B P, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,4 $350 Sweet As Softshell M S P N P, DH 0,12 $70 Power Paces M S P N P, FZ, DH 0,8 $80 Power Paces W S P N P, FZ, DH 0,6 $80 Sweet As Softshell W S P A P, FZ 0,12 $80 Windefend M S, WN P N P, FZ, DH 0,15 $120 Windefend W S, WN P N P, FZ 0,13 $120 Tectonic Softshell W S, WN P N P, FZ, DH, TH 0,15 $130 Tectonic Softshell M S, WN P N P 0,15 $130 Guide Ride Softshell M S, WN P A P, VC, FZ, DH 0,17 $140 Guide Ride Softshell W S, WN P A P, FZ, DH, TH 0,15 $140 Eastern Mountain Sports (888) 463-6367 ems.com Thunderhead M&W H, WN, WT P, PWC A, B, R P, VC, WZ, SS, FZ 0,12 $99 Cloudburst M&W H, WN, WT N, PWC A, B, R P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, SP, FZ, DH 0,11.5 $159 Deluge M&W H, WN, WT P, GTL A, B, R P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,11 $199 Feathered Friends (206) 292-6292 featheredfriends.com Jackorack Unisex WN N B P, EC, FZ 0,3.7 $144 If money is no object, this is the wind jacket you want, says one Colorado tester of this uber-light Pertex Endurance UL shell, which is waterproof enough to weather prolonged drizzles or fast-passing showers even without fully taped seams. A full zip enhances breathability and the minimalist, climber-friendly cut keeps weight down without sacrificing features, like chest pockets and a hood brim. Gripe: noisy fabric. First Ascent (800) 426-8020 eddiebauer.com Hybrid Windshell M&W H, S, WN PM A P, SS, SP, A, FZ, DH 0,10 $99 Sirocco M&W H, WN N, PM A P, A, FZ, DH 0,5.3 $50 GoLite (888) 546-5483 golite.com Kenai H PS A PZ 0,10 $200 This ultralight shell shines in awful weather, making it ideal for ounce-counters on multiday trips. The fully seam-taped Pertex Shield fabric fended off sudden alpine downpours, and 13-inch-long pit zips kept one tester from overheating on a sunny, windy ascent of Mt. Shasta. Plus: hipbelt-friendly chest pockets. Currant Mountain Paclite 2-Layer M&W H, WT GTL A P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,12 $250 Mens Ashdown Pro Shell 3-Layer M H, WT GTP A P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,13 $450 Borrego Windstopper Softshell M&W S, WN P A P, VC, PZ, 4W, FZ, DH 1,4 $250

Helly Hansen (800) 435-5901 hellyhansen.com Odin Traverse M&W H PWC A P, MV, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ 1,3.4 $325 Tall, thin hikers who get stuck with either a swimmy fit or too-short sleeves and hems: This jacket is for you. One stringbean tester appreciated the extended tail, long sleeves, and slim cut on treks in windy, rainy Northern England. Once adjusted, the hood wont budge in gusts, and bushwhacking through twiggy, damp forest didnt faze the material. But its only moderately breathable (pit zips and mesh-lined pockets help). Odin Superstretch M H P A P, MV, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ 1,4 $400 Feels like a softshell, protects like a hardshell, report testers of this fully waterproof shell with four-way stretch. It shielded one Colorado backpacker from extended rain, yet felt quiet and soft and allowed for unrestricted movement. The comfortable, easily adjustable hood also drew raves: Fantasticone of the best hoods Ive ever worn. Ding: baggy cut. Odin Guiding Light M H PWC A P, MV, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ 0,14.1 $440 Odin Fastpack M H, WN, WT N, PWC A P, MV, VC, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ 0,8.5 $300 Odin Light Softshell M&W S N, PWC A P, VC, 4W, A, FZ 1,4 $200 (503) 227-9400 hi-tec.com Hi-Tec Sports Pour Off Shell M&W H N A, B, R P, MV, EC, SS, A, FZ, DH 1,0 $75 Cloud Chaser Shell W H P A, B, R P, MV, VC, EC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ 0,8 $110 Hard Rain Shell M H, WN, WT P A, B P, MV, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 1,0 $110 Alder Springs Softshell M S P N P, VC, EC, 4W, SP, FZ, DH 1,0 $95 Misty Mountain Softshell W S P N P, EC, 4W, SP, FZ, DH 1,0 $100 Roaring River Softshell M S, WT P N P, EC, 4W, SP, FZ, DH 1,4 $100 L.L.Bean (800) 221-4221 llbean.com Trail Model Rain M&W H, WN, WT N, PWC A, B P, MV, VC, SS, FZ, DH 0,11.6 $69 For emergency rain protection at a rock-bottom price, reach for this superlight, 2.5-layer shell. One Oregon tester called it impenetrable after a cloudburst that had her contemplating digging moats around the tent. The tradeoff for this price is limited breathability and venting, so its best for car camping and other sedentary activities. Stowaway GTX M&W H, WN, WT N, GTS A, B, R P, MV, VC, SS, FZ, DH 1,1 $169 Ascent Gore-Tex M&W H, WN, WT N, GTP A, B P, MV, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ, DH 1,4 $349 Tough, stormproof, and with a helmet-compatible hood, this Pro Shell jacket is dialed for chilly, wet, high-alpine hiking and mountaineering. Though its a bit on the heavy side, the extra beefiness kept me warm and dry, reported one tester who weathered cold rain on the Colorado Trail. Hikers got sweaty during tough climbs, but moisture never built up on the inside and pit zips helped with cooling. Bummer: weight. Pathfinder Softshell M&W S, WN N, P N P, 4W, A, FZ, DH 1,7 $99

Mountain Laurel Softshell W S, WN N, P A, B P, 4W, A, FZ, DH 1,12 $109 This womens-specific softshell delivers extra warmth and wind protection for a budget price. One Utah tester reported it shed short rain showers without a leak, and she loved the cozy, high-pile fleece lining and soft, face-shielding zipper garage. But the warmth makes it bulkier and less breathable than most softshells. Mammut (802) 985-5056 mammut.com Erebus W H GTL A P, WZ, SS, FZ 0,12.9 $299 Rainier M H GTL A P, VC, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,12.7 $299 Gasherbrum M H GTP A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ 1,1.2 $499 Mittellegi W H GTP A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ, DH 1,2.3 $675 Bumblebee W H, WN, WT PM A P, VC, A, FZ 0,9.9 $149 Keiko W H, WN, WT PM A P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ 0,10.6 $229 Shira W H, WN, WT GTA A, R P, VC, SS, FZ 0,10.6 $359 Shirko M H, WN, WT GTA N VC, WZ, SS, A, FZ 0,11 $359 Felsturm Half-Zip ECS11 M H, WN, WT GTA A, B, R P, EC, SS, A, PZ 0,10.5 $390 Unparalleled temperature range, declared one tester who rocked this lightweight shell through rain, sleet, and snow on Utahs Lake Peak. Breathability is top-notch, thanks to a Gore-Tex Active Shell membrane and open-weave nylon face fabric, and the streamlined design (half zipper, one pocket) translates to a ridiculously small pack size. This high performance-to-weight ratio earned the Felsturm an Editors Choice Snow Award in 2011. Adamello W H, WN, WT GTP A P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,13 $449 Felsnadel Half-Zip W H, WN, WT GTA A, B, R P, EC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, PZ 0,9 $450 Albaron M H, WN, WT GTP A P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,15.5 $479 Nordwand M H, WN, WT GTP A, B, R P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ, DH 1,3.4 $675 Ultimate Hoody M&W S, WN P A P, EC, PZ, 4W, A, FZ, TH 1,0.96 $259 Gipfelgrat M S, WT PN A, B VC, PZ, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ 1,11.5 $450 Marmot (888) 357-3262 marmot.com Atomic M H N N P, EC, 4W, FZ, DH 0,9 $135 Paceline W H PM N P, EC, SS, 4W, FZ, DH 0,8.2 $180 PreCip W H, WN, WT N, PWC A, B, R P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,11.4 $99 PreCip M H, WN, WT N, PWC A, B, R P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,13 $99 Storm Shield W H, WN, WT N, PWC A, B P, VC, SS, FZ, DH 1,3 $125 Storm Shield M H, WN, WT N, PWC A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,5.1 $125 Phoenix W H, WN, WT N, PWC A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,13 $145

Mica M H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, SS, FZ, DH 0,7 $150 Crystalline W H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, SS, FZ, DH 0,6.2 $150 Aegis M H, WN, WT N, PM A, B, R P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,13 $160 Strato W H, WN, WT N, PM A, B, R P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,12.8 $160 Paceline M H, WN, WT N, PM N P, EC, SS, 4W, FZ, DH 0,10 $175 Oracle M H, WN, WT N, PM A, B, R P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,0 $180 Oracle W H, WN, WT N, PM A, B, R P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,14.3 $180 Essence M H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, EC, SS, FZ, DH 0,6 $185 Hyper M H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, SS, 4W, FZ, DH 0,11.8 $200 Minimalist M H, WN, WT N, GTL A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,15 $200 Super Mica M H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, 4W, FZ, DH 0,8.7 $200 Hyper W H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, EC, SS, 4W, FZ, DH 0,8.9 $200 Minimalist W H, WN, WT N, GTL A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,14.4 $200 Stretch Man M H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, 4W, FZ, DH 0,13 $260 Vagabond M H, WN, WT N, GTS A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,13 $260 Athena W H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, 4W, FZ, DH 0,13.1 $260 Nano M H, WN, WT N, GTL A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ 0,8.2 $275 Nano W H, WN, WT N, GTL A, B P, VC, SS, FZ, DH 0,7.7 $275 Vector M H, WN, WT N, GTA N P, EC, SS, FZ, DH 0,11.08 $300 Vagabond W H, WN, WT N, GTS A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,3.3 $300 Speed Light M H, WN, WT N, GTP A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,12.3 $400 Suit-of-armor protection for windbreaker weight: Thats what you get with this surprisingly light Gore-Tex Pro Shell jacket, which repelled 25-mph gusts and torrential rain without a snag. One New England hiker who braved ripping winds, rain, and high humidity was impressed with the breathability, and dried quickly when he did get steamy. Dings: too-big hood, tough-to-grab zippers and hood adjustments, and one samples DWR coating wore off under pack straps early in the test. Vector W H, WT N, GTA N P, EC, SS, FZ, DH 0,9.3 $300 Tempo Half Zip M S P N P, EC, PZ, TH 0,15.9 $95 Tempo M S P N P, EC, 4W, FZ, DH 1,2.4 $100 Tempo W S P N P, EC, 4W, FZ, DH 0,11 $100 Vapor Trail Half Zip W S P, PM A, B P, VC, SP, FZ, DH 0,7.9 $110 Approach M S P N P, VC, FZ, DH 1,4.5 $120 Tempo Hoody M S P A, B P, VC, 4W, FZ, DH 1,4.8 $130

Tempo Hoody W S P A P, VC, 4W, FZ, DH 1,0.8 $130 Fusion M S N N P, SP, FZ, TH 0,14.5 $145 Fusion W S N N P, SP, DH, TH 0,12.83 $145 Vapor Trail Hoody W S P, PM A, B P, EC, SP, FZ, DH 0,13 $150 Vapor Trail Hoody M S P, PM A, B P, EC, 4W, SP, FZ, DH 0,14.5 $150 Leadville M S P, GTSS N P, VC, SP, FZ, DH 0,11.6 $160 Leadville W S P, GTSS A, B P, VC, SP, FZ, DH 0,13.5 $160 ROM M S P, GTSS A P, VC, SP, FZ, DH 1,2 $185 Reyna W S P, PP A, B P, VC, 4W, FZ, DH 1,2.7 $260 Kingpin M S P, PP A, B P, VC, 4W, FZ, DH 1,5.5 $275 ROM W S, WN P, GTSS A, B P, VC, SP, FZ, DH 0,14.5 $185 Zion W S, WN, WT P, PN A, B P, VC, SS, 4W, FZ, DH 1,0 $375 Zion M S, WN, WT P, PN A, B P, VC, SS, 4W, FZ, DH 1,2 $375 This fully seam-taped NeoShell jacket approaches the perfect union of a softshells superior breathability and stretchy feel with a hardshells waterproofness. I stayed bone-dry, and only had a bit of sweat buildup during a 4,000-foot climb in warmer weather, says a tester who wore it through three days of constant rain in Washingtons Quinault rainforest. Other smart features: Hand pockets that sit above a hipbelt, a helmet-compatible hood, and articulated sleeves that enhance mobility. Trail Wind M WN P N P, EC, FZ, DH 0,4.2 $70 Trail Wind W WN P N P, EC, FZ, DH 0,3.4 $70 Trail Wind Hoody M WN P A, R P, EC, FZ, DH 0,4.8 $75 Trail Wind Hoody W WN P R P, EC, FZ, DH 0,4.1 $75 DriClime Windshirt M WN P N P, EC, FZ, DH 0,8.8 $95 DriClime Windshirt W WN P N P, EC, FZ, DH 0,8.4 $95 Ether DriClime M WN N A, R P, EC, FZ, DH 0,8 $100 One Colorado tester declared this the most breathable wind layer shed ever worn: Mesh panels behind the arms and in the pits make it ideal for gusty summit hikes and high-output winter activities, such as skate-skiing. The two-layer DriClime knit lining wicks sweat away from the skin by pushing it to an outer layer where it can dissipate. A DWR coating also shed light rain. Ether DriClime W WN N A P, EC, FZ, DH 0,7.5 $110 Merrell (800) 288-3124 merrell.com Chameleon M H, WN, WT GTL A, R P, PZ, SS, FZ 1,0 $249 Get a durable, Gore-Tex Paclite shield for less than $250 with this all-purpose shell. One Colorado tester praised its move-with-you four-way stretch fabric and waterproof pit zips. Tradeoff: a bit heavy, pockets sit under a packs hipbelt, and the hood feels roomy

without being big enough for a helmet. Chameleon Arc W H, WN, WT GTL A PZ, SS, FZ 0,9 $249 Origins Wind Rush W S, WN N N P, 4W, PZ 0,6 $89 Fetlar W S, WN P A P 0,7 $99 Origins Wind Rove M S, WN N A P, 4W, PZ 0,9 $99 Phoenix M S, WN P A P, FZ 0,5 $99 Corra W S, WN P N P, 4W 0,9 $119 Moab Spring Softshell M S, WN P N P, FZ 1,2 $119 Millet (800) 514-4807 millet.fr Kerani Stretch W H, WN, WT PM A P, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ $169 Hardshell features in a lightweight softshell wrapper: Millets 2.5-layer DryEdge Stretch fabric is soft, flexy, and breathable, while heatsealed seams and waterproof zippers shed precipitation in sudden showers on Colorado and Washington trails. But though testers reported no leakage, droplets soaked into the face fabric in hard rain. Kerani Stretch M H, WN, WT PM A P, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ 0,14 $179 LTK Active Shell W H, WN, WT A P, FZ 0,13 $329 LTK Active Shell M H, WN, WT GTA A Pocket, MV, FZ, 0,13 $349 Montane montane.co.uk Lite Speed H2O M&W H, WT N R P, MV, EC, WZ, FZ 0,6 $169 Minimus M H, WT N R P, MV, VC, WZ, A, FZ 0,8 $229 eVent Spektr Smock M H, WT EV R WZ, A, PZ 0,7 $329 Athena W H, WT EV A, B, R P, A, FZ 0,12 $419 eVent Super Fly M H, WT EV R P, MV, EC, WZ, A, FZ 1,1 $449 Trojan M H, WT EV A, B, R P, A, FZ 0,12.7 $449 eVent Mohawk M H, WT EV R P, MV, EC, WZ, SS, SP, A, FZ 1,2 $469 Montbell North America (877) 666-8235 montbell.com Thunder Pass M&W H, WT N, PM A, B, R P, MV, VC, PZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,14.6 $99 An impressive performance-to-price ratio makes this shell a smart bet for backpackers on a budget. Its perfect for shoving in your pack for chilly summits and late-afternoon thunderstorms, says one Colorado tester, who stayed dry in a Routt National Forest downpour. But youll pay for that price with a baggy cut, tough-to-adjust hood and hem toggles, and only average breathability. Rain Trekker M&W H, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,12.5 $159 Versa Lite Unisex H, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,6.7 $179 Torrent Flier Unisex H, WT N, GTL A, B VC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,8.9 $249

Storm Cruiser M&W H, WT N, GTP A, B, R P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,12.6 $325 Light weight, smart features, and a decent price tag set this rugged shell apart. After a full day in the soggy Yorkshire Dales, not a drop of moisture made it into this jacket, reported our UK tester, thanks to its Gore-Tex Pro Shell membrane and water-resistant zipper. Testers loved how the rollaway hood converts to a non-bulky collar to seal out drafts and elastic cuffs that stretch over gloves and seal with Velcro. Gripe: Fabric is loud. Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC)* (888) 847-0770 mec.ca Hydrofoil 3 M&W H, WN, WT N, PWC A P, VC, PZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,15/0,14 $110 Yoho M&W H, WN, WT P, PWC A P, VC, EC, SS, FZ, DH 1,6/1,2 $140 Monsoon 2 M&W H, WN, WT GTS A P, VC, SS, FZ, DH 1,14/1,13 $195 Truant 2 M&W H, WN, WT N, PWC A P, VC, PZ, WZ, A, FZ, DH 1,4 $230 RD Windshell M&W S P N P, EC, FZ, DH 0,5 $78 Pedigree M&W S N N P, MV, 4W, FZ, DH 1,3/1,0 $170 Prodigy Hoodie M&W S PP2 A P, EC, 4W, FZ, DH 1,1/0,15 $175 Windwatch M&W S, WN PW N P, FZ, DH 1,4/1,1 $88 Mountain Hardwear (800) 953-8375 mountainhardwear.com Spinoza M&W H PM, PWC A, B P, PZ, FZ, DH 1,0 $450 Foolproof weatherproofing and standout breathability made this a go-to shell for testers who bank hard miles on wet, exposed trails. One Colorado guide noted, I was dry as a bone in a six-hour downpour at 11,500 feet. The DryQ Elite membrane also drew raves from a tester who wore it on Washingtons Wonderland Trail: I never got that clammy feeling, and the jacket breathed as hard as I did. Jovian M H N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,1 $500 This DryQ Elite shell excels in hard terrain and soggy weather, report testers who loved the fast-beading performance, well-designed hood, and super-tough face fabric. I regularly skied down through thick brush exits in Mill Creek Canyon, Utah, without any tears or damage, says one tester. Breathability is above-average, with 15-inch pit zips to help venting. Dings: extra pockets add weight, the waterproof zipper is stiff, and the price. Drystein II M&W H N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, SP, FZ, DH 1,3 $600 Runoff M&W H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, MV, EC, SS, FZ, DH 0,14 $90 Epic M&W H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,13 $100 Versteeg M&W H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,15 $160 Ampato M H, WN, WT N, PM A, B, R P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,3 $250 This multitalented shell drew kudos on packability, breathability, and durabilityat a sweet priceon an ascent of Canadas Lotus Flower Tower. The fit in the arms is perfect, the pockets are a good size, and I didnt work up a sweat, reported our tester, who also

appreciated the proprietary, air-permeable DryQ Elite membrane and wicking mesh lining that added warmth on cold, windy trails. Nazca W H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,4 $250 Exposure Parka M H, WN, WT N, PM A, B, R P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,12 $270 Aquari W H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,6 $325 Beacon M H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,3 $375 Quasar Pullover M H, WN, WT N, PM A, B WZ, SS, PZ, DH, TH 0,9 $375 Embolden M&W S, WN N, PM A, B P, VC, FZ, DH 1,4 $250 Trinity M&W S, WN, WT P, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,6 $350 Kepler M S, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH, TH 1,7 $400 Zahra W S, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,5 $400 New Balance newbalance.com Minimus M&W S, WN, WT P N P, WZ, DH 0,4 $100 NBx Windblocker M&W S, WN, WT P N P, MV, WZ, FZ, TH 0,10 $130 Orotovox (801) 886-8047 ortovox.com Merino Softshell Tofana W S N N P, MV, EC, FZ, DH 0,13 $299 Merino Softshell Tribulaun M S N N P, MV, EC, A, FZ, DH 0,15 $299 Merino Softshell MCM Christallo M S N A P, MV, VC, A, FZ, DH 1,0 $349 Merino Sotshell MCM Presanella W S N A P, MV, VC, FZ, DH 1,0 $349 Outdoor Research (888) 467-4327 outdoorresearch.com Furio M H GTP, GTL A P, PZ, WZ, SS, DH 1,3.5 $320 Mentor M H GTP A, R P, VC, PZ, A, FZ, DH 1,2.2 $425 Maximus M H GTP A, R P, MV, VC, A, FZ 1,3.4 $450 Axcess M&W H, WN GTS A, B P, VC, EC, SS, A, FZ, DH 2,3.5 $375 Reflexa W H, WN, WT PM, PWC A, B, R P,VC,EC,PZ,SS,SP,A,FZ,DH 0,11.8 $165 Aspire W H, WN, WT GTL A, B, R P, VC, EC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,14.5 $199 Backbowl M&W H, WN, WT PM, PWC A, B P, VC, EC, PZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 1,15.8 $265 Igneo M&W H, WN, WT PM, PWC A, B P, VC, EC, PZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 2,2.4 $280 Enigma W H, WN, WT GTP, GTL A,B,R P,MV,VC,EC,PZ,WZ,SS,A,FZ,DH 1,0 $320 StormBound M&W H, WN, WT PM, PWC A, B, R P, MV, VC, EC, PZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 2,6 $399 Foray M H, WT GTL A, B, R P, VC, EC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,15 $160 Revel M H, WT PM, PWC A, B, R P, VC, EC, PZ, SS, SP, FZ, DH 0,14 $165 Sojourn M&W H, WT PWC A, B, R P, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,9 $190

Paladin M&W H, WT PWC A, B, R P, MV, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,15 $250 Superdurable fabric that stands up to coarse granite and a streamlined design that resists snagging kept gear-abusing testers reaching for this Pertex Shield shell. I keep grabbing it for climbing, slack lining, and BASE jumping around Yosemite and Squamish, says one tester. Downside: noisy fabric. Ferrosi Windshirt M S N PZ 0,10 $85 Dry-weather warriors who place a premium on packability will dig this ber-light windshirt. It balls up like a clementine, says one tester. Clamminess was never a problem: Long side zips and mesh underarms allowed for excellent venting, but the shell was substantial enough to keep hikers toasty in high winds on exposed ridges. Testers gave high marks for fit and range of motion, but a single Napoleon pocket only holds a doubled-over trail map or an iPod, but not much else. Transfer M&W S N, P A P, VC, EC, 4W, SP, A, DH 1,8 $130 Solitude W S N, P, PM, PWC N P, VC, EC, SS, 4W, SP, A, FZ, DH 1,0 $170 Aspect M&W S PM N P, PZ, A, FZ, DH 1,12 $215 Cirque M&W S, WN N, P N P, VC, 4W, SP, A, FZ, TH 1,4 $145 Mithril M&W S, WN, WT PM, PWC A P, VC, EC, WZ, SS, 4W, SP, A, FZ, DH 1,7 $215 Helium II M&W S, WT N, P, PM, PWC A P, VC, PZ, A, FZ, DH 0,6 $150 Mithrilite M&W S, WT P A P, SS, FZ 1,6 $199 Alibi M&W S, WT PM, PWC A, B P, VC, EC, 4W, SP, A, FZ, DH 1,8 $260 Motto M&W S, WT PM, PWC A, B, R P, VC, EC, PZ, 4W, SP, A, FZ, DH 1,15 $275 Axiom S, WT GTA A P, A, FZ, DH 0,14 $375 This airy, highly packable Gore-Tex Active Shell jacket was a favorite for long-mile days in high elevation: I hardly wore anything else the entire expedition, notes one tester, who took it on a three-week climb in Tibet. Testers in Alaska and Oregon also loved its supple feel, interior water bottle pocket, extended hem, and superior windproofing. Climbers appreciated the helmet-ready hood and harness-friendly cut. Breathability was dialed, though some sweaty testers wished for pit zips. Patagonia (800) 638-6464 patagonia.com Super Cell M&W H N, GTL A P, VC, PZ, WZ, FZ 0,13 $249 Nine Trails M&W S N N EC, SP 0,5 $99 Sweat-prone testers loved this ultralight, hoodless windshirt, which pairs ripstop nylon in the front and sleeves with stretchy, breathable polyester in the back and pits. My back gets sweaty when I have a pack on, so at rest stops I quickly get chilly, says one tester who wore it in Californias Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. But I stayed drier in this shell. Ding: It wets out fast. Simple Guide Hoody M&W S P H P, VC, 4W, FZ, DH 1,4.2 $149 From soaked bike rides through the streets of Ho Chi Minh City to hikes in the chilly mountains outside Santiago, testers used this light, packable, and stylish piece as their go-to adventure travel softshell. Stretchy, breathable polyester wont wet out in light rain,

and a brimmed hood and adjustable cuffs cinch tight to seal out gusty weather. Drawback: It wont stand up to serious storms. Adze M&W S, WN P, PW N P, VC, 4W, FZ, DH 1,4.4 $139 Rab (303) 926-7228 rab.uk.us Volt M H PS A, R FZ, VC, DH, MV 0,13 $225 Great, lightweight summer protection from rain (and even bugs), reported one tester, who wore this Pertex Shield Plus shell while guiding paddling trips on Alabama rivers. The hood adjustments and wire brim fine-tune fit, and cinchable cuffs sealed out leaks, even when testers reached up to set up a tarp in a storm. But the tiny zippers are prone to snagging, and the back adjustment toggle detached from one hood early in the test. Neo M&W H PN A P,VC 1,2 $365 This air-permeable Polartec NeoShell jacket earned near-perfect scores on breathability, even in tough slogs through foggy, humid conditions in the Columbia River Gorge. Other smart features: The helmet-ready hood sheltered my head and face so well I felt like I was sitting in a tent, reported a Mt. Whitney tester, and the roomy cut makes cold-weather layering a snap. Boreas EC11 M S P H 4W, PZ 0,8 $80 Our gear editor declared this quick-drying jacket the first softshell shed take backpacking, thanks to its extremely high breathability, light weight, and solid weather resistance: During a daylong storm of wet snowflakes in Capitol Reef National Park, it never wetted out. The soft lining and snug fit make it wearable as a baselayer and softshell in one; testers also praised its four-way stretch, long cuffs, and deep-venting chest zipper. These features earned this versatile shell an Editors Choice Award in 2011. Scimitar M&W S PM A, B, R P, MV 1,4 $175 Vapor Rise Lite Alpine M&W S PM A P 0,12 $175 Aurora EC11 W S P H 4W, PZ 0,8 $80 Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) (800) 426-4840 rei.com Dunraven M H, S, WN N N P, VC, EC, 4W, SP, FZ, DH 1,1 $139 Dunraven W H, S, WN N A P, MV, VC, SP, FZ, DH 1,1 $139 One Montana tester loved snuggling up to this softshells brushed tricot inner lining, which felt great on the skin and adds a touch of insulation. It staved off light rain turning to snow on October hikes in Glacier National Park, but when temps turned bitter, testers needed extra layers to stay warm (a baggy cut accommodates a fleece). Kimtah M H, WN, WT EV A, B P, VC, WZ, SS, A, FZ 0,16 $239 Kimtah W H, WN, WT N, EV A, B P, MV, VC, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,14 $239 CentrePeak M S, WN P, PPP N P, VC, 4W, FZ, DH 1,9 $199 Polartec Power Shield Pro fabric helps the CentrePeak nail the sweet spot for softshells, right between weather resistance and superior breathability. A brushed fleece lining adds enough insulation to wear just a baselayer underneath during high activity on colder days. Bonus: It costs much less than some other Power Shield shells. Bummer: Its heavier, too.

CentrePeak W S, WN, WT P, PPP A, B P, VC, SS, 4W, SP, A, FZ, DH 1,7 $199 Salomon (801) 624-7573 salomonsports.com XA WS Softshell M&W S PM B, R P, MV, EC, SP, FZ, DH, TH 0,14 $190 Minim Shell M&W S, WT PWC A P, MV, VC, PZ, WZ, FZ, DH 0,11 $185 Sherpa Adventure Gear (877) SAG-TREK sherpaadventuregear.com Mani Rimdo M&W H P, PM A P, PZ, SS, 4W, FZ, DH 1,5 $248 Thamel 2.5 Layer M&W H, WN, WT N, PWC A, B, R P, EC, SS, FZ, DH 0,11/ 0,9 $97 Lithang M&W H, WN, WT P, PM A P, VC, PZ, SS, 4W, FZ, DH 1,3/ 0,15 $199 Resham 3-Layer M&W H, WN, WT N, PM A, B P, MV, VC, EC, SS, FZ, DH 0,13/ 0,11 $199 Mani Rimdo M&W H, WN, WT P, PM A P, VC, PZ, SS, 4W, FZ, DH 1,10 $248 Tridevi Modus 3-in-1 W H, WN, WT P, PM A P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ, DH 1,15 $309 Trimurti Modus 3-in-1 M H, WN, WT P, PM A P, VC, PZ, SS, 4W, FZ, DH 1,4 $309 Kriti M&W S N N P, 4W, A, FZ, DH, TH 0,14/ 0,12 $89 Nisha W S P A P, VC, 4W, A, FZ, DH 0,13 $109 Tseten W S P N P, VC, 4W, A, FZ, DH 0,15 $119 Deoche M S, WN P N P, VC, 4W, A, FZ, DH 1,2 $119 Khangri M S, WN P A, B P, VC, 4W, SP, A, FZ, DH 1,0 $125 Pumori W S, WN P A, B P, VC, 4W, SP, A, FZ 0,12 $125 Lobutse M S, WN P A P, VC, 4W, A, FZ, DH 1,0 $129 Penny-pinching hikers can trust this budget option to cover the bases with aplomb: Its not too bulky or heavy, and not too warm, says one tester who took the Lobutse on shoulder-season scrambles in southern Utah. Surprisingly upscale features included a trim, stretchy fit and a polyurethane membrane that made this shell more weather resistant than expected. Tradeoffs come in the details: The hood lacks a brim, the zipper snags on the chin guard, the hem is cut short, and its drawcord pulls are positioned uncomfortably on the hips. Sierra Designs (800) 423-2320 sierradesigns.com Hurricane M&W H PM A, B P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ 0,14 $80 Drifter M&W H PM A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ 0,13 $89 Stellar M&W H PM B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ 0,15 $99 Wicked M&W H PM B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SP, FZ 0,12 $149 Jive M&W H, WT PM B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ 0,15 $279 Stoic (877) 786-4220 stoicgear.com Vaporshell M H P A P, PZ, SS, FZ 0,14 $129

Bargain alert: This light, solidly weatherproof shell proved especially breathable, even on a slog up Mount Rainer: I wore it over several layers in sunny conditions with no moisture buildup, says one tester. To save weight, the jacket features one small chest pocket, narrow zippers, and 7.5-inch pit zips (some testers wished they were longer). Vaporshell W H P A P, VC, PZ, FZ 0,14 $129 Stash Shell M H P A P, VC, PZ, FZ 0,13 $189 Hadron Anorak M S N A P, EC 0,8 $179 Monolith Softshell M S N N P, SS, FZ 1,6 $179 I felt like I was hiking in a Snuggie, says one Washington tester of this sleek, microfleece-lined softshell. That lining, plus heavierduty nylon face fabric, makes this midweight shell best for colder-weather activities, such as skiing and winter trail running. Welded seams protect from moderate moisture. But the pockets sit under a hipbelt and the extended collar is wide, letting chilly breezes sneak in (theres no hood). Welder Hi M S N A P, VC, PZ, SS, FZ 1,15 $229 Welder Lo Softshell M S PP A P, SS, FZ 1,8 $269 Testers called this welded-seam shell the perfect three-season jacket for high-intensity activities. It shed drizzle and graupel like a champ on Colorado trail runs, and the Polartec Power Shield fabric kept hardworking hikers from steaming up. The hyper-athletic cut stays put when reaching for handholds or stretching, but only fits over baselayers. Welder Hi Softshell W S N A P, PZ 1,9 $299 Hadron Anorak W WN N A P, EC 0,8 $179 Wraith Shell M WT N R FZ 0,3 $69 The North Face (888) 863-1968 thenorthface.com Venture ECG11 M&W H HV A P, PZ, VC 0,12 $99 An innovative castor-oil blend makes this bargain shell just as waterproof/breathable as standard technologies, and TNF eliminated about 50,000 pounds of petroleum-based production pollutants from the line it replaced. It shielded our Pacific Northwest tester from both wind and deluges; breathability is solid, enhanced by long pit zips and mesh-lined pockets. Great backpacking performance plus eco-friendly construction earned this jacket an Editors Choice Green Award in 2011. Alpine Project M&W H GTA A P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ 0,15 $350 Dyno Anorak M H, WT PWC A P, WZ, SS, PZ, DH 0,14 $130 Lovers Leap Anorak W H, WT PWC A P, WZ, SS, PZ, DH 0,11 $130 Think About It M&W S N R P, FZ, DH 0,11 $149 Alpine Project Windstopper M&W S GTS A P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, FZ, DH 0,12 $250 Westcomb (604) 420-8964 westcomb.com Vapor FX M&W H P, EV A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 2,3 $550

Chief Bib M&W H, S PP, EV N SP, PZ 1,3 $340 Specter LT Hoody EC08 M&W H, WT EV A, B P, VC, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 0,11 $300 Cruiser LT M&W H, WT EV A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 1,0 $380 Vapor FX Pant M&W H, WT P, EV N P 1,10 $400 Switch Hoody M H, WT PN A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ, DH 0,15 $430 Mirage M&W H, WT EV A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, A, FZ, DH 1,0 $450 Apoc M&W H, WT PN A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ, DH 1,1 $480 Rugged weatherproofing, full features, and superior breathability make this Polartec NeoShell jacket a standout in summer storms and winter blizzards alike. It even kept one tester dry and comfortable during a 3,500-vertical-foot uphill ski tour on Utahs Gobblers Knob. Bonuses: slightly stretchy fabric, excellent hood, and long-enough cut. Revenant Bib M&W H, WT EV N P, FZ 1,5 $480 Chrome M H, WT PN A, B, R P, VC, WZ, SS, 4W, A, FZ, DH 1,10 $550 Revenant M&W H, WT EV A, B P, VC, PZ, WZ, SS, SP, A, FZ, DH 1,8 $550 Skeena Hoody M&W S N, EV A, B P, EC, 4W, A, FZ, DH 1,0 $360
*Prices in Canadian dollars

codes: EC =Editors Choice Award, ECG =Editors Choice Gold Award; ECG=Editors Choice Green Award; ECS =Editors Choice Snow Award. Sizing: M=mens only, W=womens only, M&W=both mens & womens sizes available, U=unisex. Type: H=hardshell, S=softshell, WN=windproof, WT=waterproof. Material: N=nylon, PM= propietary membrane, PWC=propietary waterproof/breathable coating, P=polyester, PS=Pertex Shield, EV=eVent, HY=Hyvent, GTP=Gore-Tex Pro Shell, GTL=Gore-Tex Paclite, GTA=Gore-Tex Active, GTS=Gore-Tex Performance Shell, GTSS=Gore-Tex Soft Shell, PN=Polartec NeoShell, PP=Polartec Powershield, PP2=Polartec Powersield 02, PPP=Polartec Powershield Pro, PW=Polartec Windbloc. Hood: N=no hood, H=hood, A=adjustable hood, B=brim on hood, R=roll-away hood. Features: P=pockets, VC=velcro cuffs, SP=stretch panels, A=articulated elbows, FZ=full-zip, SS=seam-sealed, 4W=four-way stretch, DH=drawcord hem, TH=thumb holes, MV=mesh-lined pocket vents, WZ=waterproof zippers, PZ=partial zip, EC=elastic cuffs. Weight: for size mens m; when two weights are listed mens m is first, then womens m. All specs provided by the manufacturer