I’m looking to buy a shell jacket from Columbia and came across one that seems promising. I plan to use it as an outer layer over my insulating layer during the winter. Do you think this is a good choice, or are there better options from Columbia or other brands? I’m on a budget and have had good experiences with Columbia products, which is why I’m considering them.
It’s a decent(ish) choice, but there are likely better options at a comparable price. I’m not sure gender/sizing, so I just googled and I’m seeing your jacket for $84 in some places and $150 in others.
For under $150, I’d go with an Outdoor Research Jacket (example - Amazon.com: Outdoor Research Men's Helium Rain Jacket – Breathable Weatherproof Jacket : Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry). They’ll be better made and in my personal experience, they fit better.
I’d recommend running by an REI and trying on options if there is one near you. They also just mailed out 20% off coupons to members this week for their fall sale. If that’s not an option, it’s also always easy to buy/return on Amazon.
Finally, make sure you size appropriately if wearing over a puff jacket. Some brands intentionally make their shells a little larger (such as Arc’teryx) while many others do not.
Qi said:
@Ash
Love OR. Just picked up the helium down on sale for under $100 on steep and cheap.
Hell yeah! They’re one of the more underrated gear companies in my opinion. I’ll forever be an Arc’teryx fanboy, but I majorly prefer my OR shell.
Qi said:
@Ash
I love Arc’teryx, especially when I get it on a good sale! But OR is definitely a great option. Their Shadow insulated hoodie is my go to for 40ish degree weather hiking and walking the dogs.
Good choice there. Another option in a similar price bucket is the Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer, super warm for the price.
A hardshell is useful if it’s snowing or the tree snow is melting. You’re moving and generating heat, so pitzips would be great.
A true winter jacket would have some of these features, but you can get by with rain gear:
- snow skirt: can help prevent snow from going under the hem and into your torso if falling. Some zip off for 4 season use. Or some have jacket to pant interface to minimize snow entry. At least have a way to tighten the hem area w/ elastic
- Higher outer pockets in case you’re wearing a hip belt
- Deep inner stash pockets for skins, gloves, etc.
- An arm or wrist pocket for RFID passes
- Bigger hood for helmet compatibility
- Longer arms with a wide opening that can cinch for people who like tucked in gloves or gauntlet style ones
- A bright color for safety or visibility
- Need room for layering
- I miss having a vampire collar: the chin zips high to the nose against blowing snow (blizzard, chairlift winds, heli)
Define winter and hiking. In general though I would be sceptical of anything that isn’t 3L, especially with a backpack.
You need light fleece and water proof down (not puffer). Columbia owns Mountain Hardwear. So you can stay loyal to the brand if you get Mountain Hardwear. Shell if it’s raining.