Backpacker Magazine – Fall Gear Guide 2009

Gear Review: ARC'TERYX Squamish Pullover Jacket

Soak up the sun in this windproof ARC'TERYX pullover.

by: Testers Shannon Davis, Jonathan Dorn, Kristin Hostetter, Dennis Lewon, Molly Loomis, Annette McGivney, Jeff Purton, Kris Wagner, Jeff Wilhelm

Tags:
• Gear
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• Soft shells
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• Jackets
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Best Windshell
Black is a brilliant color for a windproof jacket, and that's the choice we recommend here. Our testers soaked up UV radiation while wearing this hoody in the high country, and they say the color added 10°F of warmth in bright sun–a key gain while skiing or mountaineering in windy but not bitter conditions. In shoulder seasons, the combination of windproofing and solar absorption should be enough to let you wear the Squamish over a single baselayer–ergo, no overheating and less weight.

In winter, add a vest underneath. The jacket features the usual quota of smart ARC'TERYX features: glove-friendly extension cords on the zips, an adjustable hood with a stiffened brim, adjustable cuffs, a deep front zip for venting, and a hip-length hem for full coverage. While the Squamish is less rain-resistant than some windshells, the fabric is cottony soft, making it the rare shell that's comfortable next-to-skin–even when a big climb gets you sweaty. $139; 5.3 oz.; men's XS-XL; arcteryx.com

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