Gear Hub: Three Waterproof Jackets For A Range Of Adventures
When it comes to choosing a waterproof layer, your choice is important but the selections are daunting. I’m a firm believer you don’t need to have a one-sized-fits-all piece of gear for all the activities you do. For someone like me who dabbles in trail running, hiking, climbing and ski touring, finding a jacket that does it all would be impossible.
Rather than trying to wear one jacket for all your adventures, investing in three rock solid options is the way to go. Keep reading for three of our favorite waterproof options!
Mammut Kento Light
Having spent the majority of my adult life recreating in the White Mountains of New Hampshire and Rocky Mountains of Colorado, I am no stranger to unannounced afternoon storms rolling through at the drop of a hat. The Mammut Kento Light has kept me dry and protected on many alpine adventures. On a recent hike up to Booth Lake outside of Vail, the afternoon started with hot temps and a casual drizzle, and as we gained elevation the temps dropped and the drizzle became heavier. Having my Kento Light stored conveniently in my pack meant I would stay dry on the last bit of the climb and warm on the decent.
This hooded jacket boasts an elastic hem and cuffs, a water-repellent zipper and fits my silhouette nicely. Plus, it comes with a matching packing pouch to keep it perfectly stored when not in use. If you’re looking for a lightweight, packable option for summer adventures in the alpine, the Mammut Kento Light is your perfect match.
Gorewear Concurve
Bright, technical and comfortable against the skin — what more could you ask for? The Concurve Jacket from Gorewear is a great option for wet miles on your feet. Designed for running, this jacket is strategically engineered to move with your body. With less seams than ever before the body’s natural running movements are not constricted by extra fabric.
Gorewear’s innovated magnetic buckle technology takes the stage when we talk about the hood. This element keeps the hood firmly in place without limiting moment while maximizing visibility. Road or trail, rain or wind — the Concurve is ready to go for miles.
Arc’teryx Alpha SV
A technical jacket meant for reaching new heights. Mountaineers, rock climbers, ice climbers and even ski-touring fanatics — this one is for you. This highly-durable yet breathable fabric is truly iconic and has stood up to some of the toughest alpine conditions. The micro grid backer enhances the Alpha SV’s durability that much more.
When it comes to appearance, the Alpha SV is available in some of the brightest of colors not only for style, but to keep you visible should the worst-case scenario become a reality. The embedded RECCO reflector adds more peace of mind should searchability need to be taken into account. The encouragement of safety doesn’t end there, this jacket features Arc’teryx’s StormHood design to make sure you don’t have to choose between head protection and protection from the elements. To finish it off, Arc’teryx nailed the pocket placement on this one — ample chest and shoulder storage opportunities means no more opportunities for must-have items to interfere with the performance of your harness — a climber’s dream.
Whether you are hiking to the alpine, running in spotty weather or reaching lofty mountaineering goals, weather protection is important to take into account. Stay dry and happy all summer (and year!) long with these three options.