Features To Covet

• Durable Water Repellent finish on outer fabric.
• Two-way front zipper for more ventilation and flexibility options.
• Hood that is adjustable for head / helmet size.
• Hood design that actually moves with your head when you look side to side.
• Hood bill generous enough to shed rain from glasses, goggles and eyes.
• Generously sized underarm zippers for added ventilation options.
• Plethora of well-placed pockets to stow items you need to keep handy.
• Chest pockets that zip open from top to bottom keeps your small items from spilling out.
• Mesh backing behind chest pockets adds to the ventilation options.
• Draw cord at waist allows for more customized fitting and cuts down on drafts.
• Storm flaps--the baffle over the zipper--that close with Velcro or snaps let you leave the zipper open for airflow into the jacket.

Made For Women Does Not Mean Unisex!
How is a woman's jacket sized differently than a man's? Typically, for any given size, the sleeves will be up to three inches shorter, the neck opening up to one inch narrower, the chest size up to three inches narrower, the torso up to two inches shorter and the waist-to-hem flare (women have curves you know) is up to two inches wider.

Variables To Consider

An Adventure Network Truth from the mouth of Michael:
The hard reality remains that you'll need a couple of jackets to span the territory between breathable and waterproof--between a foggy San Francisco morning jog and a monsoon-season slog up Mount Unbelievable.

Jackets for Runners, Xcr Skiers, Mountain Bikers and More
High sweat output shells. These shells break the wind, turn back a little moisture, and transpire sweat very well. Since you want to feel fast, weight and waist-length cut are concerns. Less is more, so if it's too long, too baggy, or heavier than 15 ounces, look again. Hoods either roll up or zip off.

Storm Shells
I bow before the miracle of waterproof-breathable technology when the weather gets really ugly. Gore-Tex still rules, but don't ignore Triple Point Ceramic or some of the other laminates or coatings now out there. Seek out little extras such as fleece-lined handwarmer pockets and around the face area as well as a wrist area altimeter pocket for mountaineering shells.

Jackets for Mixed Conditions
A mixed-conditions shell approaches a high-output shell in breathability, yet will also turn back a short downpour. Such jackets are versatile, but if you stay out in the rain, you'll eventually get wet. Look for cuffs, waists, and hems that can be adjusted to open wide for added venting options.