shell

BACKPACKER hasn’t given an Editor’s Choice Award to a waterproof shell since 2016. Here's why.

Editors choice for wooly comfort from the 2018 Fall/Winter Gear Guide.

Most durable shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.

Women's pick for a shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.

Warmest shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.

Lightest shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.

Best shell for tall folks from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.

Best value shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.

Ounce-for-ounce champ shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.

Most breathable shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.

Most comfortable shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.

Eco Bargain shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.

The Zeta LT sets a new bar for shells.

Durability and light package make this jacket shine.

There's always room to pack this featherweight, bombproof shell.

See why we love this do-anything shell.

Executive Editor Dennis Lewon shows off the Arc'teryx Alpha SV Jacket

Tester Ted Alvarez reviews the Arc'teryx's minimalist jacket with Gortex Active Shell.

This softshell packs a double punch with waterproofing and breathability.,See what our testers thought of this jacket from the North Face.

Gear Editor Kristin Hostetter with Patagonia's breathable and packable Troposphere hard shell jacket

Executive Editor Dennis Lewon reviews The North Face's Enzo Shell Pants

Backpacker Map Editor Kris Wagner shows off one of the cooler jackets at this year's show. The Merrell Gatherer has zipper access that allows you to stuff the jacket with your own insulation.