Article by Renee Krusemark, Jeff and Allison Valliere
Outdoor Research Winter 2024 Apparel Round Up Review
In the article, Renee, Jeff, and Allison put a range of winter focused Outdoor Research outerwear,midlayers, shells, gloves and mittens to the test in cold, windy, and snowy early winter weather in Colorado and Nebraska.
Deviator Hoodie (Men’s and Women’s)
Women’s Sizes XS-XXL
Men’s Sizes S-XXXL
$229
Features/Specs/Materials
Renee: The Deviator Hoodie features a new insulation technology called VerticalX™ Octa, which does not require an interior liner fabric and is 50% lighter than traditional polyester insulation . As a result, the Hoodie is very breathable and lighter in weight as compared to traditional polyester insulated jackets. The material is visibly translucent. Paired with hybrid-mapped ActiveTemp fabric on the exterior. the Hoodie offers a more effective function for active use. The hood is insulted with a bonded brim and elastic opening. Both hand pockets have a zipper as does the chest pocket. The logos offer reflective visibility. The hood, shoulders, sleeves, and front body have knit insulation.The inner sleeves, sides, and back have strategically-placed stretch panels.
Jeff V: Renee describes the technical features of the Deviator Hoodie well. The front of the jacket, shoulders, hood and top of sleeves are wind/water resistant and insulated softshell, where the back, sides and under arms are meshy and breathable. The inner lining is soft, fuzzy and comfortable, the hand pockets are roomy, as is the chest pocket. The zipper tabs are minimal with grippy ends that can easily be operated with gloves on.
Fit
Renee: The fit is listed as “trim.” The cut is a typical women’s fit, with some taper for shape. I tested a women’s size small, my typical size. For me, a size small can fit short in the length and in the sleeves, especially if the cut/trim is women’s specific. The length of the Hoodie hits right at my waist and the arm sleeves have good length.
The jacket is not bulky and the material is soft. The hood offers a good amount of elastic to stay somewhat close around the face and I had no issues with it falling while running into the wind (20-30 mph gusts). The hood brim does not extend far enough forward to cover the forehead, but it works great over a hat for warmth.
Jeff V: The Deviator Hoodie fits true to size in my typical size medium. As is the case with most tops, I could likely go with a small due to my short torso, but require more length in the arms and depending on the cut, can feel a bit snug, at least when it comes to layering. For cycling, I am more accepting of snugness due to wind drag and aerodynamics, but for running, I prefer jackets to not be form fitting and have a more relaxed fit. Based on Renee’s description, the fit of the men’s jacket is a bit more loose and allows for a great range of motion and the option to layer underneath if preferred. Essentially the size medium is perfect for my just under 5’10” height and 145lbs.
Performance/Conclusions/Recommendations:
Renee: The jacket worked great at a variety of temperatures. At 11℉ , I wore a warm base layer and found the performance great. Out of the wind and in the sun, the breathability of the material worked great. During a run starting at 30℉ and ending at 40℉, I wore a t-shirt underneath and was warm enough without getting sweaty (because of great breathability).
My iPhone 14 Max fits in the zipped chest pocket, and it’s just snug enough to not bounce. For comparison, the GOREWEAR R5 GORE-TEX Infinium Insulated Jacket is similar in terms of temperature use. The sizing is similar. The Infinium Insulated Jacket is lighter in weight and feel, yet warmer. The fit is a bit baggier, allowing for a thicker base layer as needed. The breathability in both is great, although slightly better in OR Hoodie (pro or con depending on the temperatures).
Jeff V: Performance is excellent, providing a great warmth to weight ratio, with the body mapped soft shell material in key areas providing warmth, windproofing and water resistance, while the more breathable materials on the back and sides allow for breathability. Fit is roomy enough for a thicker midlayer(s), without feeling overly loose or bulky. I find the jacket to be comfortable with just a merino baselayer in temps as low as the upper teens when I am running moderate to hard and building up some body heat and is also great for runs of any effort up into the 40’s or even into the 50’s. It is also comfortable for more casual use into the 60’s, so it is quite a versatile piece.
While I have not tested in truly wet conditions, I find the softshell material adequately wards off moderate to light dry snow showers.
Wind resistance is very good in general, but I will say that when it is really cold and windy, the vented, more meshy back and sides can feel a bit drafty and I will add a shell.
The hood, while there are no cinch cord or other adjustments, holds snug in the wind. The visor, while minimal and offering little real functionality, is still helpful in adding a bit of added structure.
I will note that while I can wear most mid layers for weeks before needing a wash, the Deviator Hoodie becomes malodorous after just a few runs and requires a trip through the washing machine.
Sizes S-XXL
$139
Features/Specs/Materials:
Jeff V: Designed for high output activities in cold weather, the Deviator Wind Pants provide an excellent balance of wind protection and breathability, with a slim tapered cut and stretch fabric for excellent mobility and flexibility. The Deviator Wind Pants have a hybrid mapped construction, featuring a windproof fabric at the front of the pants and ankle with a water resistant coating to also protect from moisture (like wind driven snow and running through snow).
The back of the pants is composed of a breathable knit fabric that is also stretchy and allows for a full range of motion (the knees are also articulated). So, we have classic Nordic ski pants construction.
Additionally, the Deviator Wind Pants feature zippered ankle cuffs, reflective logos, UPF 30 protection, as well as a nice roomy zippered hip pocket and a generous drop in pocket.
Fit:
Jeff V: I am not quite 5’10”, but have a 34” inseam and a ~32-33” waist (depending on how much I just ate), so finding the right pants has always been a bit of a trick. The size large fits me very well, perfect for length and comfortable in the waist, with a nice,thick elasticized band.
The fit is tapered and somewhat slim, but not at all confining and I love that the pants feel very comfortable and have a great range of motion with the stretch mesh and articulated knees. While comfortable in the waist, these pants unfortunately do not have a drawstring, which was really a surprise. I have found that without the drawstring, I have to pull the pants up often on downhills and also prohibits me from putting anything in the pockets (which is too bad, because you can easily stow an iPhone in the drop in pocket and other smaller essentials in the zip pocket). Even items as small as my car key in the zippered pocket is noticed and has an effect. Those who are more proportionate than I may not experience the same fit concerns as I, but would love to see a drawstring in a future version.
Performance:
Jeff V: Performance is excellent and I find that the Deviator Wind Pant has become my go to running pants despite the minor waist fit issues. I find that they work great for me in a wide range of conditions, anywhere from the low 20’s to the 40’s or even low 50’s. They have great wind protection and a moderate level of water resistance (good for running on moderate dry snowy days), a great range of motion and are exceptionally comfortable. Breathability is also very good, as is moisture wicking and dry quickly.
Conclusions/Recommendations:
Jeff V: The Deviator Wind Pants are a fine pick for those looking for a winter running pant for a wide range of conditions, generally in the 20-50 degrees range with some wind, and some snow, allowing for excellent comfort, breathability and range of motion. Quality, construction and materials are top notch, though in a perfect world, I think the Deviator Wind Pants would benefit greatly from the addition of a drawstring, which would expand the range of fit for more people and allow for utilization of the pockets (they either fit, or they don’t). Either way, these have become my favorite running pants that I will reach for more than any other.
Women’s Deviator Wind Leggings
Sizes XS-XL
$139
Features/Specs/Materials
Renee: The Women’s Deviator Wind Leggings feature the same specs as the men’s version . The leggings version of the Deviator pants are listed as high-rise with a wide contoured mesh-lined waistband with 1/2” interior elastic. While the pants are called “leggings,” I consider them to be more like a running tight with a few qualities of a jogger, especially because of the windproof fabric in the front and the gusseted crotch.
Fit
Renee: I wore a women’s size small, my usual pant sizing. The model on the OR website is 5'11" and is wearing a size small. At right under 5’7”, I expected the length to be long, but it hits right at my ankles. The material has good stretch, and I found the fit to be completely different than what I expected as depicted on the model. The pants are high-rise, although the waist line still sits under my belly button. One of the website reviews states the waist was too tight, which I did not experience.
As Jeff wrote, there is no drawstring, although the women’s version has an interior elastic. I had no issues with the waist slipping or feeling too tight. For comparison, the Brooks Run Visible Tight are tighter in the waist (almost too tight). The “gusseted crotch” feature makes the pants feel more like a jogger in the crotch than a running tight. The fit is not baggy or loose, but rather not as tight as a legging or running tight would feel. For those who hate bunching created from leggings/tights, these pants offer a good alternative. The material stretches, although the articulated knee might be too tight for those with proportionately large quads. The zippered leg opening is a must to get the pants on.
Performance/Conclusions/Recommendations:
Renee: I was pleasantly surprised at the performance of the pants. I thought they might work best for cool, but not cold weather. I ran in feels-like temperatures of 11℉ to 40℉. While initially cold at 11℉, the windproof front keeps out the cold from wind chill. At close to 40℉, the back felt warm, but overall during early winter when the temperature ranges dramatically because of wind chill, these are great.
Breathability and moisture wicking properties are great too. I would say the usage of the pants depends on a runner’s preference, but I consider them a great choice for those awkward temperatures when it’s a bit too cold for shorts or when the wind chill makes a considerable difference. Both of the thigh pockets fit my iPhone 14 Max in its OtterBox case. I agree with Jeff, the weight of the phone is not comfortable on hilly terrain or trails, but on mostly flat crushed rock, I ran with my phone in the unzipped pocket for 19 miles with no issues. The pants are too tight for me to wear another layer underneath, although I suppose they could be used as an outer layer over extremely tight leggings. Another layer could be worn over them, but that negates the windproof properties to some regard. They work best as the solo layer.
Deviator Gloves
Sizes XS-XL
$69
Features/Specs/Materials:
Jeff V: The Deviator gloves feature recycled materials, goat leather overlays on the palm and fingertips for grip and durability, with a mix of nylon, spandex, polyester, 20D stretch woven shell, are touchscreen compatible and have a low profile pull on loop on either glove for easy pull on. They are water resistant, wind resistant, breathable, stretchy and lightweight.
Fit:
Jeff V: Fit for me is true to size in my normal size medium, they basically “fit like a glove”. They are comfortable and allow for reasonable dexterity with minimal excess.
Performance/Conclusions/Recommendations:
Jeff V: The Deviator gloves are light-ish, but not nearly as light/minimal as a glove liner, although they are not quite a mid weight glove either.
I use them mostly for running when the temperatures are in the 20’s or even the teens if I am running moderate to hard and will not be out for too long (~90 minutes or less). They are not too warm for temps in the 30s, though in the 30s or more, I will typically go with a glove liner, unless it is snowy, windy or I am hiking or snowshoeing. I find the Deviators to be breathable without being drafty. Wind resistance is great and they are water resistant enough for light, dry snow, but will soak out in rain or heavy snow.
While they are technically touch screen compatible, any screen operation will be very limited, as the gloves are bulky enough that any real screen precision is not possible.
Sizes XS-XL
$119
Features/Specs/Materials
Renee: Meant for winter wear, the gloves feature merino wool, goat leather palms and grip, recycled low-bulk insulation, and high breathability. The gloves are water/wind resistant and touchscreen compatible. A removable glove clip and wrist leash is provided along with a robust pull on loop.
Fit
Renee: The sizing is unisex. I received a size small, which is a bit too large for me. For women runners/sizing, I would size down or compare to sizing in men’s wear. I typically need a size down even for women’s gloves. The opening is generous, and the Velcro strap is secure (even considering the gloves were too big for me).
Performance
Renee: For my review, the coldest temperature was 11℉ and these gloves are meant for colder conditions, at least for me whilerunning. I’ll save these for well below 0℉ running. The gloves are listed as not-bulky, although they have some bulk and I found the breathability good. When the wind chill reaches double digit below zero ℉, I’ll probably appreciate them better. When not running, the gloves worked well at 11℉ for outdoor activities other than running (clearing fallen branches).
Men’s Helium AscentShell Jacket
S-XXL
$449
Features/Specs/Materials:
Jeff V:
The Helium AscentShell is made with Pertex® Shield Air Diamond Fuse 3L fabric with an alpine design for maximum mobility over rock, snow and ice. The Diamond Fuse part is a special diamond shaping of the outer shell filaments for durability. It is exceptionally light for being a winter ski/mountain shell, weighing in at just 10.88 oz/ 308g.
The Helium AscentShell jacket is waterproof, windproof and breathable, featuring a fully adjustable helmet compatible hood with wired brim, adjustable drawcord in the hood and hem, large exterior chest and very large side zip pockets, inner zippered pocket and 2 inner mesh drop pockets, taped seams, velcro wrist cuffs and two way front zipper.
The velcro cuff is streamlined, low profile and secure.
There is one pull tab for the waist hem, that is tucked up and secured out of the way.
I am seeing this more and more, internal pull tabs for the elasticized hood, which is smart, as they are out of the way and not flapping in the wind. They take a little more work to access, but is totally worth it.
The seams are well taped on the inside.
The Helium AscentShell has two nice large mesh inner drop pockets.
There is one inner zippered pocket that is large enough for my iPhone 13 Mini (but a larger phone may be a stretch). There is also a port for wired headphones (if by chance you still use wired headphones).
Fit:
Jeff V: Fit is quite roomy in my normal size medium and if I were just wearing a thin layer or two underneath, a size small would likely be OK, but since I want to be able to easily layer underneath to include a down jacket on the coldest, most wind whipped days, the medium is perfect for accommodating more bulky layers underneath.
I am able to easily wear 3 layers underneath (a long sleeve baselayer, a hooded midlayer like the Deviator Hoodie, and a hooded down jacket) and the fit is adequate. When not layering heavily underneath, the fit is pretty baggy, so If you do not plan to layer much underneath, then you might want to consider sizing down a size, otherwise stick true to size if you want to keep your layering options open. The length is also long, which is great, as I prefer to have more coverage and not have the jacket ride up. The hood is very large as well to fit over a helmet, but you can cinch it down with the internal draw cords (nice that the cords are internal and do not flap in the wind).
Performance:
Jeff V: The Helium AscentShell is amazing! I am very impressed at how light this jacket is given the protection that it provides. It has not rained in the time I have been testing the jacket, but I have tested under the faucet and the shower and I could not get it to soak through. Snow squalls are no match though, nor is wind, as this jacket feels like an impenetrable fortress.
The only time I have experienced this level of protection is with the Arc Teryx Alpha SV jacket, which has been my go to, tough mountain conditions shell for many years. The Alpha SV however is double the price, double the weight and not nearly as breathable. It is also much thicker and stiffer, so much so that I never got used to the stiffness and crinkling noises that it makes.
I really appreciate that the Helium AscentShell packs down so small, is super light in the pack and feels flexible and comfortable, allowing for a wide range of motion without feeling stiff and loud like the Alpha SV. Breathability is also very good, where even without pit zips or any other venting, I find that I do not easily overheat.
Conclusions/Recommendations:
Jeff V: The Helium AscentShell is an ideal pick for anyone looking for a fully functional, bomb proof technical shell for ski mountaineering, ski touring, mountaineering or just about any other activity where you want maximum prevention from the elements with a full list of features and no compromises.
The Helium AscentShell will replace my Arc’Teryx Alpha SV and will be my go to shell for all but the summer months for ski mountaineering, ski touring, mountaineering, hiking, running on the most snowy inclement days or taking along any time I think I may need the best protection. At just 10.88oz / 308g, it is so light that it is a no-brainer and inconsequential to bring along on almost any outing just in case you may need it. Being so light, this will also be the jacket that I pack for travel when I know I may need a rain jacket.
Men’s/Women’s Alti II Gore Tex Mitts:
Small - XL (men’s) and XS-L (women’s)
$209
Features/Specs/Materials:
Jeff V: The Alti II are OR’s flagship mitten, designed for 8,000 meter peaks and polar expeditions, as they are incredibly well insulated, durable and waterproof. While I do not go on such exotic adventures, I am sure they would be amazing for that! Otherwise, why would anyone need a pair of these if one were NOT going to the Himalaya or the Poles? Simple, it can get very cold outside of those areas and if you are easily susceptible to getting cold hands, then these are an amazingly warm and versatile option.
For starters, the Alti II mitts features a warm Primaloft filled inner mitten with a nylon ripstop shell, that fits securely and stays put (with velcro connection points) inside the thick and durable seam taped outer GORE TEX shell. The outer shell is also lined with Primaloft insulation and has an exceptionally durable Pitards Amortan Leather palm that generously extends from the elastic wrist cuff, around the thumb and over and around the fingers. Additionally, the Alti IIs feature kevlar stitching, a removable leash, a carabiner loop, glove clip, elasticized wrist and cinchable gauntlet.
Fit:
Jeff V: Fit is true to size in my usual men’s medium. With the liner mitten in, I can also fit a very thin glove liner in as well, not so much to add warmth, but for those times when I need to take my hands out to eat, dig in my pack for other layers, etc… If you are borderline on size or want to wear a thicker glove liner, or just prefer a bit more room, I would recommend sizing up a size. Sometimes I will use just the outer mitt, which on its own is pretty roomy, but not overly so and has enough room to easily use other gloves of various thickness.
Allison: Like Jeff, I find fit to be true to size in my usual size medium and would agree though that if you are borderline on sizing or just prefer a little extra wiggle room
Performance:
Jeff V: I have long admired the Alti II mitts and occasionally tried them on in REI, imagining how much warmer my hands would be when climbing high peaks in the Winter, but had reluctantly gotten by with my old mittens and hand warmers as needed. I easily get cold hands and especially my fingers, whether it is when climbing Colorado 14ers in Winter, or sometimes just when backcountry skiing or snowshoeing, or even on my local runs/hikes on very cold days. As my friends can attest, I am almost always the most heavily dressed on any hike, run or ski.
The Alti II mitts have essentially solved my cold hands issues, as they keep my hands toasty even when temperatures are below zero and it is windy. I wondered if perhaps these would be overkill for all but the most extreme temperatures, but I find them to be great even in temps as warm as the 20’s when taking it easy (walking, easy hiking, an eBike trip into town, holiday parades, etc…). I also really appreciate the versatility of the inner/outer mitt combination, where I will often just wear the liner mitt when it is cold, but not super cold (in the 20’s), then have the outer mitten handy for when conditions worsen higher on the mountain, for a ski descent, or if conditions get wet, as the outer mitt is exceptionally rugged and waterproof. Like any mitten, dexterity is compromised and these mittens are no exception, as they are thick and bulky, but completely worth it for the warmth. That said, there is enough flexibility that I can perform basic tasks like grabbing onto ski poles, handling my backpack, operating zippers or get a drink of water.
Allison: I agree with Jeff on all points. My hands are even more sensitive to the cold than his and even in temps in the 20’s or 30’s, I have struggled to keep my fingers warm. I regularly go through Costco size boxes of hand warmers with my previous mittens when temps are in the 20’s or less. With the Alti II Mitts though, my hands always stay very well regulated, not overheating and being comfortably warm in moderate temperatures (20’s) and stay predictably and consistently warm when temps drop even lower into the teens, single digits or even below zero with wind chill.
The quality and construction are top notch and completely bomb proof and I do not think that I could ever soak them out in even the wettest of snow, no matter how long I were out. The red color, while loud, is great for keeping track of them in my deep dark backpack when I need to quickly dig them out. I will often wear just the liner when it is not extremely cold, as on their own they are plenty warm, but always have the outer mitt handy for when I feel that I need them. I love the modular design, as it adds a lot of versatility and flexibility when it comes to use. The wrist leash is really handy and easy to use (and is also removable if you decide to not use it). I also like the cinch cord around the wrist cuff which is easy to use and keeps out snow and drafts.
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Conclusions/Recommendations:
Jeff V: The Alti II Mitt is far and away the best mitten I have owned or seen. They are exceptionally rugged, durable and high quality, very warm and versatile with the two layer system that really expands their range of use. Whether you are going on high altitude or polar expeditions, or just want the warmest, highest quality mittens for whatever you choose to do in cold weather, this is likely the only/last mitten you will ever need to buy.
Allison: Agreed, these are hands down the best mittens ever, the highest quality, warmest and most versatile. While pricey for mittens, it is well worth it not only for their performance, but they will last you a lifetime.
Sizes XS-XXL
$249
Features/Specs/Materials:
Allison: The Shadow Hoodie is a warm, water resistant, breathable midlayer, suitable for all types of winter activities such as hiking, running, snowshoeing, ski touring or just a casual everyday snug hoodie. It is made of 90% Nylon and 10% Spandex, with a 20D stretch woven shell and lining, while the under arms and side panels consist of 93% Polyester and 7% Spandex for greater stretch and breathability.
It features an insulated adjustable hood with elastic cinch, zip brushed tricot lined hand pockets, low profile elastic sleeve cuffs with thumb loops, 2 internal drop/stash pockets on either side, elastic hem drawcord and a brushed interior for warmth and comfort.
A nice warm insulated elastic cinch adjustable hood
Nice fuzzy lined pockets for comfort and warmth
The front panels, back panels, hood and top of sleeves are a more wind and water resistant nylon and spandex stretch woven shell, whereas the side panels are more stretchy and breathable.
The inner side of the side panels are nicely fleece lined and fuzzy, for added cozy comfort and to better dissipate heat under hard efforts. You can also see one of the two drop pockets, which are very deep. While each pocket can fit a lot, I do not find myself putting much there besides a beanie or some food. You could fit a water bottle or larger items, but that would be awkward, so I opt for softer clothing type of items.
Fit:
Allison: The fit of the Shadow Hoodie is a bit tricky for me. I am 5’6”/115 lbs and have worn a size small in every jacket that I have worn in my adult life, but the size small shadow hoodie, because of its tapered, flattering cut (which I really like), made it a bit snug in the chest and under my arms. I was fortunately able to trade out for a medium, which fits much better, allowing for layering underneath and better freedom of movement. I would recommend trying them on if you can before you buy, or purchase from a retailer with a good exchange policy in case it does not fit properly and you need to size up as I did. As I mentioned, the cut is form fitting and flattering, which I really like from a styling standpoint, as it looks feminine and not at all straight or boxy. The Shadow Hoodie provides heaps of function and fashion!
Performance:
Allison: Performance is the best of any hooded midlayer I have ever owned. The Shadow Hoodie is so light, comfortable and versatile, allowing for freedom of movement and amazing flexibility and range of motion. I have been able to test the Shadow Hoodie in temps from the teens Farenheit up to around 50. In the teens I will probably add another layer over the Shadow, either a shell or maybe even a down jacket, depending on how hard I am working. In the 20’s I am comfortable if I am moving hard, or if not moving hard, I will add a 2nd light layer underneath and I am just fine. The sweet spot seems to be the 30’s to 40’s for me for my usual daily hikes and runs in the foothills of Boulder. Breathability is very good when working hard and it never feels damp or clammy, any perspiration dries really fast.
Conclusions/Recommendations:
Allison: The Shadow Hoodie has quickly become my favorite midlayer for just about any outdoor winter activity. I find it to be ideal for my daily hikes and runs in the Boulder foothills, have worn it snowshoeing/hiking in the high alpine zones in Rocky Mountain National Park and for several days of cross country and backcountry skiing in Winter Park, Colorado. I love how light, protective and breathable it is, it is the ultimate mid layering piece. I also love the overall comfort, look and style, so much that I wear it day to day and get a lot of compliments.
Sizes XS-4X
$299
Features/Specs/Materials:
Allison: The Helium Down Hoodie is OR’s ultra lightweight, packable, hooded down jacket for any winter adventure, from hiking, mountaineering, belaying, skiing or just as a technical casual wear piece.
The Helium Down Hoodie features 800 fill responsibly sourced down, a waterproof hood and shoulders to ward off accumulating snow, brushed Tricot lined front hand pockets, a chest pocket, deep internal drop pockets and an elastic cinch hood and hem.
Fit:
Allison: While I typically wear a size small, after trying them on in the store, I waffled, but ultimately decided to go with medium so that I would have a little extra room to layer underneath. The small fits great if only wearing a baselayer and thin to medium mid layer, but I get cold easy and often bundle up underneath with thicker layers, so I ended up going with a medium to allow extra room for layering. Without the thick layers, the medium is a touch baggy, but just barely noticeable. I could honestly flip a coin on either size and it would work, but if they made a size between a small and a medium, that is for sure what I would get.
Performance:
Allison: I love how light, warm and packable the Helium Down Hoodie is and find it to be exceptionally warm and cozy for the weight. I have worn it in temperatures from the single digits (with layers underneath) up to temps in the 40’s and have been comfortable. Even when windy, it does a great job at deflecting the wind and keeping the cold drafts out (utilizing the elastic hem cord). The hood is roomy (to accommodate for a helmet), but I can cinch it down nice and snug to keep it in place on windy days. The waterproof hood and shoulders is a nice touch, as it delays the need for a shell when it snows, or you may not even need a shell at all depending on how light and dry the snow is. The 800 fill down is effective at trapping in the warmth and the fact that it is not super thick and puffy really aids in the range of motion and ease of movement. You essentially get the warmth of a thick down jacket without the cumbersome bulk.
Conclusions/Recommendations:
Allison: The Helium Down Hoodie is exceptionally versatile and is the perfect jacket for packing along in your pack if you think you may need an emergency layer, wearing for skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, mountaineering or just as a warm and light stylish jacket for day to day use in the Winter. I appreciate the functionality, warmth, comfort, minimal bulk, quality and style. I would highly recommend this jacket and anything else made by OR!
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Tester Profiles
Renee is a former U.S.Marine journalist, which is when her enjoyment of running and writing started. She isn’t that awesome of a runner, but she tries really hard. Most of her weekly 50-60 miles take place on rural country roads in Nebraska, meaning mud, gravel, dirt, hills, and the occasional field. She has PR’s of 1:30:59 for the half marathon and 3:26:45 for the marathon.
Allison Valliere is a 5th generation Coloradan who is passionate about the outdoors and has been hiking, backpacking, skiing, snowshoeing and running in the mountains since she was young. She has completed all but 5 of the Colorado 14ers (a dozen or so in winter), has many hundreds of year round ascents of 14ers, 13ers and other peaks in Colorado and the West. Allison has also traveled the world and trekked to over 18,000 feet in the Himalayas, to high altitudes in Ecuador and has worked for the National Park Service mapping plants in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California . Her almost daily routine involves runs/power hikes in the foothills above Boulder, or 4-5 mile flatter runs at 8-10 minute mile pace if schedule necessitates. But what really keeps her on her toes is working as a nurse and taking care of her 12 year old twin daughters who are also growing to share her love for the outdoors.
Jeff Valliere loves to run and explore the mountains of Colorado, the steeper and more technical the better. He has summited all of the 14ers in the state and can be found on mountain trails daily, no matter the weather, season, conditions or whether there is daylight or not. On the side he loves to ski (all forms) bike and hike, often with his family, as he introduces his 12 year old daughters to the outdoors. Jeff was born and raised in New Hampshire, but has called Colorado home for over 25 years. He is 5’9” and 145 lbs.
3 comments:
Following
Jeff, how does the Deviator Hoodie and Pant compare to the Rab Vapour Rise Summit Jacket and Pant? I live in Montana and would use the pieces for cold Nordic days, commuting (bike/foot) and winter runs. Thanks for your time.
Kind of two different categories in my opinion. The Deviator is not nearly as warm, which is great if you are doing more high output activities in temps teens to 40's, but the Rab VR is more heavey duty and appropriate for colder temps, higher winds, lower intensity and also has better snow reistance.
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