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Wind Jackets
We tested these so you don’t have to.
// By Dina Mishev
BLACK DIAMOND DISTANCE WIND SHELL
What is it
One of the lightest and most packable hooded wind jackets available, it is made from a see-through single-layer nylon material and weighs as much as (about 4 ounces) and compresses to about the size of a deck of cards.
Strengths
Small details that make a big difference: a draft-flap behind the front zipper; an elastic hem on the hood lets you pull the hood on and off without unzipping.
Weaknesses
We didn’t find that it was as wildly hydrophobic as was professed, but, points for its DWR process being PFC-free and not requiring any water, which is way more eco-friendly than traditional DWR techniques.
Best for
Eco-friendly mountain minimalists.
Details
$149; available at Black Diamond Equipment, 160 W. Pearl Ave., Jackson
ORTOVOX MERINO WINDBREAKER
What is it
A hooded jacket made from a revolutionary weave that blends Tasmanian merino wool and nylon in a single moisture-wicking layer that has exceptional wind-stopping power and breathability.
Strengths
Its merino-nylon fabric is backed by a DWR coating, making it a solid lightweight (about 4 ounces) alternative to a rain jacket.
Weaknesses
It’s short in the torso, and the oversized chest pocket is amazing … until you unzip it, and your phone, gloves, and snacks fall out.
Best for
Cyclists—road, gravel, or mountain—and short-waisted hikers and runners who want the latest material technology.
Details
$185; available at Wilson Backcountry Sports, 1230 Ida Dr., Wilson
LA SPORTIVAETHERAL PRO
What is it
A slim-fitting rainproof shell for running and hiking that is one of the lightest (5 ounces) and most packable three-layer jackets available.
Strengths
Full-on rain protection in a tiny package that doesn’t skimp on details; it has water-repellent zippers, reflective detailing, and an adjustable hood with a protective visor.
Weaknesses
The added water protection makes it less breathable.
Best for
When space is minimal and rain is as much a concern as wind.
Details
$269; available at Teton Mountaineering, 170 N. Cache St., Jackson
ICEBREAKER SHELL+ COTTON WINDBREAKER
What is it
A light-but-not-superlight (8 ounces) technical windbreaker made from 100 percent organically grown cotton and coated with a water-repellent finish.
Strengths
Mesh underarm gussets and a center back panel make it the most breathable jacket tested.
Weaknesses
The price.
Best for
Anyone who wants to protect against wind using a natural fabric.
Details $285; available at Skinny Skis, 65 W. Deloney St., Jackson
GOREWEAR CONCURVEWINDBREAKER
What is it
A hoodless jacket with full wind protection and moderate waterproof protection designed specifically for runners (but works for hikers, too).
Strengths
Significantly more water protection (and at a lower price point) than other jackets that weigh about as much as an adult hamster (less than 4 ounces) and stuff down to the size of a softball.
Weaknesses
When the wind is cold, we want a hood.
Best for
Throwing into your pack on warmish days where the chance of light rain is between 30 and 50 percent.
Details
$100; available at gorewear.com
MONTANE FEATHERLIGHTHOODED WINDPROOF JACKET
What is it
Similar to the Black Diamond and Ortovox jackets—lightweight (about 4 ounces) and with a DWR coating—but with stretch and a more flattering fit.
Strengths
The material is quiet, even if you’re running hard and pumping your arms.
Weaknesses
It started smelling sooner than other jackets (but the water-protection treatment held up through washing machine cycles).
Best for
When you want to hear the wind, and not your wind jacket, rustling.
Details $145; available at Teton Mountaineering,
170. N. Cache St., Jackson JH
