Outdoor Research Microgravity AscentShell Jacket

Description

Weight: 14.6 oz Price: $279 Fabric: AscentShell 3L 30D Nylon Stretch Ripstop Pros: Air-permeable. Durable. 3-Layer. Comfy. Slightly stretchy. Cons: No pit zips. Hand pockets aren’t hip belt-friendly. If you need protective raingear that can comfortably be worn all day long, then we recommend the Outdoor Research Microgravity AscentShell Jacket . It’s the perfect outer layer for windy climates, and hours of intermittent precipitation when there’s no point to constantly de-layering and re-layering. Think of destinations like the Olympic Coast or Patagonia. Primarily, this is because the AscentShell waterproof tech is air permeable, offering top of the line breathability to keep the wearer dry on the inside. What’s more, the fabric is slightly stretchy and articulated, which helps for big reaches and to prevent fabric bunching. Lastly, the 30D ripstop nylon face fabric is highly durable and will hold up to light and moderate abrasion which is more likely to occur when worn than when stowed. At 14.6 oz, it’s a bit too heavy and bulky to justify carry on multi-day trips with generally, and we don’t consider it to be a daily driver backpacking rain jacket. However, this downside is mitigated by the presumption that we’re recommending it for scenarios where you intend to wear it more than stowing it. As far as features, we like the dual chest pockets, but will ding it slightly for low-set hand pockets that aren’t designed for hip belt compatibility. It has a helmet compatible and highly customizable hood configuration and cinchable cuffs and hem. This is also a great multisport hard shell for wearing on technical alpine missions, and looks good around town too. The MicroGravity is a great arrow to add to one’s rain gear quiver, and perfect for all day wear in on/off rain and wind.