Gear Review: Outdoor Research Incandescent Jacket
A versatile and lightweight puffy you won't be disappointed by.
[ultralight warmth]
Our Rocky Mountain editor has three decades of gear testing under his belt, so when he gives a near-perfect score to a puffy, we know we have a winner. “It’s super-versatile for subfreezing activities, combining the light weight and compressibility of an 800-fill down sweater with the warmth of an expedition parka.” His opinion is seconded by our cadre of testers from the Dartmouth Outing Club, who wore the Incandescent on many ski and climbing trips. “The features are simple, not fancy or overbuilt,” says one. “So you’re not packing extra bulk from fittings or Velcro closures.” Raves: The snug-fitting hood seals well against the face without fumbly cordlocks. The stout, two-way zipper allows bottom venting and access to a harness, and it’s backed by a storm flap that “foiled 40-mph headwinds and wet snow.” The long torso protected butts during freezing New Hampshire belays. Quibble: The 10-denier Pertex Quantum shell wetted out after several snowy chair-lift rides and sustained a tear (on rock) while one tester was climbing. $325; 1 lb. (m’s L); m’s S-XXL, w’s XS-XL; outdoorresearch.com