The main zipper can open from either end, has a storm flap and every zipper pull is robust and easily managed by gloved hands.

The list of features on the Outdoor Research Uberlayer Hooded Jacket will be appreciated by anyone venturing out in cold conditions. This jacket will cinch down to the size of a cantaloupe not superior but still manageable for such a versatile garment.

The Outdoor Research Uberlayer Hooded jacket is well appointed and these extra features limits compressibility compared to more pared down pieces. It does accommodate a climbing helmet but is tight some binding occurs when fully zipped. The hood adjusts via a single cord lock in the rear and the stretchy fabrics allow it to move well with the head. A single cord lock adjusts the elastic in the lower hem and elasticized cuffs seal at the wrists. Mobility is excellent as the stretch materials and slippery lining enhance the jacket’s ability to keep up with aggressive movements. Internal volume accommodates heavy base layers. Torso and arm length worked well for overhead activities, only causing slight ride up and wrist creep. The cut is definitely on the trim side all girths are geared toward the slimmer set. The fit is another strong point of the Outdoor Research Uberlayer Hooded Jacket. This was particularly noticeable where the jacket made contact with shoulder or hip straps. The outer shell, although DWR coated, can only withstand drizzle due to the porous and breathable nature of the fabric. The main zipper has a wind resistant flap behind it to protect that area. Although slightly more windproof than some in this test, the Outdoor Research Uberlayer Hooded Jacket lets anything other than the slightest breeze cut through. This jacket suffers in weatherproofing, like others in this test, due to the focus on breathability. Classic baffled construction ensures insulation stays in place over the long haul. Zipper sizes, cordage diameter and other hardware also reflected a nod towards increased durability and usability. Both outer shell and inner lining fabrics survived haphazard treatment in mountain and rock climbing environments without a nick. The Outdoor Research Ublerlayer hooded jacket is one of the more durable pieces in this category. This construction is effective over a wide range of aerobic intensities, from the low aerobic demands of rock climbing to the high demands of trail running. During high intensity activity in cold conditions, the combination of a nylon 30d stretch woven outer shell, polyester stretch mesh inner lining and Polartec Alpha insulation provides plenty of air movement to abate heat and moisture accumulation. Breathability is where the Outdoor Research Uberlayer Hooded Jacket shines.

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