Review of Mountain Equipment's Makalu Hardshell Jacket
In the Pacific Northwest, where harsh weather conditions often include heavy rain, wind, and cold, having a reliable and durable hardshell jacket is essential for ski touring and hiking. Here are six top-recommended hardshell jackets that excel in alpine conditions and are perfect for tackling the challenging weather of the region.
1. **Arc’teryx Hardshells**
Arc’teryx hardshell jackets are widely tested and praised for their performance in alpine conditions. Known for excellent waterproofing, breathability, and durable materials, these jackets are trusted for both ski touring and rugged hiking in harsh weather.
2. **Outdoor Research Hardshell Jackets**
Outdoor Research hardshell jackets are also rated highly for tough alpine environments. Offering reliable protection against rain, snow, and wind, these jackets provide a good balance of weight and features for backcountry use.
3. **Patagonia M10 Storm Jacket**
The Patagonia M10 Storm Jacket is recognised as one of the lightest and most breathable waterproof shells, making it ideal for high-output activities like ski touring or hiking. Its design is well-suited to the wet and variable climate of the Pacific Northwest.
4. **Montane Cetus Lite (Men’s Best in Test)**
The Montane Cetus Lite is a lightweight, breathable, and waterproof jacket, perfect for active use. Designed for three-season use but robust enough for winter excursions, it includes features beneficial for alpine travel such as helmet-compatible hoods and good ventilation.
5. **Alpkit Sigma (Women’s Best in Test)**
The Alpkit Sigma is a top choice for women, with high marks for protection and breathability. With sustainable construction and good value for performance, it is suitable for alpine and variable weather conditions encountered in the Pacific Northwest.
6. **Black Diamond Fineline Stretch Shell**
The Black Diamond Fineline Stretch Shell is an affordable and stretchy jacket, allowing for freedom of movement. It features a full set of adjustable hoods compatible with helmets, moderate breathability with pit zips for ventilation, and is good for both hiking and ski touring where durability and comfort are key.
### Key Features to Look for:
- **Waterproof and Breathable Membranes:** Gore-Tex or equivalent are essential to keep dry and comfortable. - **Helmet-Compatible Hoods:** Important when ski touring or mountaineering. - **Pit Zips or Ventilation Options:** To regulate temperature during high exertion. - **Lightweight and Packable:** Easy to carry during long hikes or tours. - **Durability:** Robust fabrics to withstand brush, snow, and rugged use.
These jackets have been selected based on expert testing in alpine and wet environments similar to the Pacific Northwest, balancing protection, breathability, weight, and practical features to handle variable mountain weather.
If your activity emphasizes warmth as well as waterproof protection, layering with an insulated jacket like the Mountain Hardwear Ozonic (with breathability and stretch) can complement your hardshell for colder days on the ski tour.
Overall, the combination of Arc’teryx, Outdoor Research, Patagonia M10, Montane Cetus Lite, Alpkit Sigma, and Black Diamond Fineline Stretch represents the best-in-class hardshell choices for ski touring and hiking in the Pacific Northwest.
- The Arc’teryx Hardshell Jackets are ideal for ski touring and rugged hiking in harsh weather, as they are praised for their excellent waterproofing, breathability, and robust materials.
- Outdoor Research hardshell jackets, featuring reliable protection against rain, snow, and wind, offer a good balance of weight and features forbackcountry use, making them perfect for travel and sports like skiing and hiking.
- The Patagonia M10 Storm Jacket, with its lightweight and highly breathable design, is suitable for high-output activities such as ski touring or hiking, making it ideal for travel in the wet and variable climate of the Pacific Northwest.
