Backpacker Magazine – Fall/Winter Gear Guide 2011

Gear Review: Mountain Hardwear Ampato Jacket

A jacket that combines packablity, breathability, and durability, all at a great price.

by: Nancy Prichard Bouchard

Tags:
• Gear
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• Apparel
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• Jacket
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The sheer, 2,000-foot southeast face of the Lotus Flower Tower in Canada’s Cirque of the Unclimbables requires multiple skill sets. Our tester packed the Ampato for the same reason: It delivers a repertoire of packablity, breathability, durability, and price. “The fit in the arms is perfect, the pockets are a good size (great for holding a camera lens or energy bars), and I didn’t work up a sweat,” says our tester, who summited the peak. “And the fabric was absolutely waterproof, even in 30°F temperatures with all-day heavy rain and hail.”

The membrane is Mountain Hardwear’s Dry.Q Elite, a version of air-permeable eVent. The jacket comes with an adjustable, helmet-compatible hood, and plentiful pockets. Inside is a wicking mesh lining that, while adding weight and bulk, makes the jacket feel drier during sweatfests, and warmer on cold, windy days.

$235
1 lb. 4 oz. (m’s L)
m’s S-XXL
mountainhardwear.com


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