Arc’teryx Incendo SL/Cita SL
Lightest windshell
Windshells in this weight class usually have so-so breathability, but the Incendo breaks the mold. The 10-denier polyester (with a 40-denier ripstop grid) on its front repels 30-mph gusts and light rain, while air-permeable, 20-denier nylon across the back and in the pits jettisons heat. We loaded up a daypack and hit the uphills hard on a trail run in Montana’s Bitterroot Mountains in 50°F, and we didn’t get too sweaty. And at less than 3 ounces, with no adjustments and no hood, it’s a true minimalist. The whole thing packs down to the size of a thin wallet. Tradeoff: Though the fabric held up well during the test period, it’s not the best choice for hard-on-gear hikers.