Outdoor Research Skyward II: Still the Greatest Waterproof Shell
It’s true: BACKPACKER hasn’t given an Editor’s Choice Award to a waterproof shell since 2016. But hear us out.
shell
Ortovox Swisswool Tec Stretch Zebru Jacket
Editors' choice for wooly comfort from the 2018 Fall/Winter Gear Guide.
The North Face Impendor Softshell
Warmest softshell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Maloja Gustina
Women's pick for softshell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Adidas Swift Parley Jacket
Eco Bargain shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Arc’teryx Beta AR
Most durable shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Flylow Cooper Jacket
Most breathable shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Strafe Cham Jacket
Best shell for tall folks from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Montane Fleet
Ounce-for-ounce champ shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Dynafit TLT 3L
Lightest shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
REI Xerodry GTX Jacket
Best value shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Black Diamond Helio Active Shell
Most comfortable shell from the Fall/Winter 2018 Gear Guide.
Editors' Choice Snow 2015: Arc'teryx Zeta LT Shell
The Zeta LT sets a new bar for shells.
Gear Review: Arc'teryx Beta LT Shell Jacket
Durability and light package make this jacket shine.
Editors' Choice 2014: Marmot Essence Shell
There's always room to pack this featherweight, bombproof shell.
Gear Review: Westcomb Switch LT and Fuse LT Hoody
See why we love this do-anything shell.
Arc'teryx Alpha SV Jacket
Executive Editor Dennis Lewon shows off the Arc'teryx Alpha SV Jacket
Gear Review: Arc'teryx Tecto FL Jacket
Tester Ted Alvarez reviews the Arc'teryx's minimalist jacket with Gortex Active Shell.
Gear Review: The North Face Summit Series Anti-Matter Softshell
This softshell packs a double punch with waterproofing and breathability.,See what our testers thought of this jacket from the North Face.
Gear Review: Patagonia Troposphere Jacket
Gear Editor Kristin Hostetter with Patagonia's breathable and packable Troposphere hard shell jacket
Gear Review: The North Face Enzo Shell Pants
Executive Editor Dennis Lewon reviews The North Face's Enzo Shell Pants
Outdoor Retailer Highlights: Merrell Gatherer Jacket
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.