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Stoic Wraith Shell - Men's - 2011

Stoic Wraith Shell - Men's - 2011 BCS

Item # SIC0136

The weather-shunning Stoic Wraith Jacket is so small, lightweight, and easy to smuggle, your trail-running partners will think you conjured it out of thin air. Weighing in at a mere 2.5-ounces and small enough to fit in a pocket, the Wraith Jacket puts an end to soggy days on the trail.

  • DWR finish repels light moisture
  • 3-D Ergonomic fit moves with you, not against you
  • Small and light enough to fit in a pocket

Bottom Line:

Smuggle-worthy.

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Rating for this product: 5

Light is right.

By:
June 27, 2011

Well, we've all heard that before, and in this case, it's very true. This is a direct competitor to the TNF Verto jacket; however, at $30 less and half an ounce lighter, this takes the cake. There are no cinch cords or anything, but it's cut as to not need them. The hood fits beautifully even without cords. Just loose enough that's it's not uncomfortable, and just tight enough that even when riding a bike it stays on and covers your head. The water resistance is quite decent. It'll block light rain for about a half hour, and it actually kept me reasonably dry for about five minutes in a total downpour, which is highly impressive for something this lightweight. Better than all that is that it dries almost instantaneously, so even if you get soaked, it'll be dry in no time. A word of caution though, and that is unless you throw it in the dryer after it's gotten soaked through, the water repellency is severely decreased. I would say that it's windproof to about 25 mph or so, but that doesn't mean you won't lose heat through convection, especially in a thin material like this. Layer it over a Patagonia R1 and it's an incredible combo for cold weather exercise. Oh, and it also fits in the cargo pocket in my Overhang shorts.

Here's the review on my site:
http://blessedoutdoors.blogspot.com/2011/11/stoic-wraith-review.html

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Rating for this product: 2

Small sleeves

By:
October 17, 2012

The wraith is very light and compact, however, the sleeves are very trim cut. It would not work over an insulating layer even after going a size larger than needed based on previous reviews.

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Is this jacket made out of Sil Nylon?

Is this jacket made out of Sil Nylon?

By:
July 19, 2012

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No, it have "DWR finish"

By:
July 20, 2012

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Wraith in Saudi Arabia

By:
January 5, 2012

Wearing it on a very windy desert night in KSA.

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Rating for this product: 5

Great wind shell

By:
September 21, 2011

I've only used it on one trip so far but I love this jacket. Super light (XL is 2.6oz), breathable and it sheds light water. On a summer trip I could see using this as my only shell.

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Rating for this product: 5

Small is Better

By:
July 10, 2011

There is nothing worse then getting caught in a thunderstorm without any gear. I picked this little jacket up with the intent of using it in the fall, but I carried it in my bag and used it the other day when the cold mountain rain caught us and I was stoked to have it. It weighs near nothing, it kept me dry and packed back up small after. It may not look pretty, but function is everything sometimes.

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I'm 5'10", 175-180 lbs. Is the M the right size

I'm 5'10", 175-180 lbs. Is the M the right size

By:
February 9, 2012

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I'm the same & the medium works for me-it's not too tight, it fits just right.

By:
June 15, 2012

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Ryan, I'm the exact same measurements, I'm going with a large just because I may be layering underneath and want some extra room, like Tyson said, you're not necessarily going for looks here, but moreover functionality. (especially considering the price

By:
May 28, 2012

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A lot will depend on how tight you like your shell. A medium could work.There is also a sizing chart below the price that may help. Best of luck!

By:
February 9, 2012

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Runner's World Magazine's "Rain Jackets that Shine"

By: Departmentofgoods.com Employee
May 14, 2012

Here's what Runner's World had to say about the Stoic Wraith Jacket:

"The men's only Stoic Wraith Jacket packs a lot of punch into 2.5 ounces. It kept one tester dry during a soggy Seattle Marathon. "It proved invaluable toward the end of that very wet, windy race," he said. The see through jacket folds into a pocket when not in use. The four-ounce women's version is called the Luminous."

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Rating for this product: 4

Stoic Wraith Shell - Men's

By: Departmentofgoods.com Employee
June 10, 2011

I just went to the Backcountry.com retail store to try this on. I normally have hard time fitting into Stoics jackets. I tried this guy and it fit great. I tried the XL on and the sleeves were a little tight around my arms. I then tried the XXL and it was a perfect fit. It was plenty long in the sleeves and torso. I am 6'3" 225lbs......

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1 Comment Last Comment: July 4, 2011 by:

By:
July 4, 2011

Thanks for the size update!

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Rating for this product: 5

LIght weight & warm moisture protection

By:
August 1, 2012

I just got this jacket. Its super light yes, but its also actually quite warm considering its paper thin nylon. Not that I'm about to go snowboarding in it, but damp hikes or fall runs this will be a great layering asset.

Sizing: I am almost 6' 3", and weight 205 lbs, athletic build. I ordered a Large since I like things a hair smaller/tighter fitting than most. It fits me just how I like everywhere except for the forearm near the elbow are tight when I bend my arm, and the torso could be an inch or so longer. I'm not sure if going to an XL will really remedy this problem enough to matter though, so I'm going to order an XL to see which fits better and I'll post here after with further review.

Bottom Line: For the $45 or so this jacket cost at the time of my purchase, its worth every penny. Quality construction & flawless function as a light rain/wind jacket.

Wish List: I wish it had draw strings & reflective tape along the front zipper like the women's version (called the Luminous), & it would be nice if it came in alt colors. Blue, yellow, red, white, & black would all look way better than the orange or green.

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Does anyone have experience with how this jacket holds up while

Does anyone have experience with how this jacket holds up while rock climbing? How does it compair to something like the Patagonia Houdini? Would it get ripped to shreds? Does it not block wind as well? Thanks!

By:
February 4, 2012

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The jacket is my favorite shell the stoic offers but it will NOT last if you get in a road bike crash.

By:
June 29, 2012

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The jacket is my favorite shell the stoic offers but it will NOT last if you get in a road bike crash.

By:
June 29, 2012

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I love it for rock climbing. I've been mightily surprised with how well it's held up. I was climbing on very sharp dolomite, and several times I was certain I'd put a huge rip in it, and there wasn't even wear. It blocks wind as well as any other windshell out there. Kept me very warm in high winds.

By:
February 6, 2012

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Rating for this product: 4

Small and packable

By:
July 30, 2012

This is just what I was looking for: warmth without bulk. When packed in its own pocket it is about the size of my fist. I bought it for backpacking, but it tends to go with me for for most of my outdoor activities when weather or altitude may make it useful. As other reviewers said, the arms and shoulders can be a little tight. I'm 6' with medium build and went with the XL. A little snug in the arms and shoulders, but next size up would probably be too large in the torso, so it works for me. Maybe could use a little better placed reflective lettering to be useful for biking, but that's a minor quibble. Thanks for a great product at a great price.

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Rating for this product: 4

Synthetic Feather

By:
July 27, 2012

This shell is pretty cool. It's light, compresses well, thin, and stylish. I ordered a medium and it has a tight cut on me (5'11"/180lb) but I believe a large would have been too big. Can't wait to break this puppy in!

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How windproof is this jacket? There's nothing in the item

How windproof is this jacket? There's nothing in the item description about windproof-ness, even though it's listed under the windshirts category. Is the level of wind protection comparable to other ultralight windshells (e.g. Montbell Tachyon, Montane Featherlite)?

By:
January 19, 2012

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Exactly the same wind protection as other windshirts. It's been quite windproof in my experience.

By:
January 23, 2012

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Rating for this product: 4

Good deal

By:
July 19, 2012

The Stoic Wraith is a inexpensive substitute for the Patagonia Houdini. It fits snugger than a Houdini. To layer buy one size larger. I am a medium and I ended up buying a large. Sleeves run alittle long in all the sizes, but it is not really an inconvenience.
Recommendations to Stoic: Shorten the sleeves and come out with a black color.

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Rating for this product: 5

Very functional at a great price!

By:
June 28, 2012

This wind jacket will do exactly at intended. That is, blocking the wind. It will add a bit of warmth insulation, but don't depend on it to protect against a severe chill. This jacket along with a Cap 3 long sleeve shirt will protect me down to about 50 degrees.

For sizing, the major factor is the sleeves. They are cut very narrow. I'm 5'11", 190 lbs, and the XL is the perfect fit sleeve-wise, but just a bit large around the torso. However, when wearing my Montbell UL inner down jacket underneath, it's a perfect combination, and should protect me down to 30 degrees. And, the XL only weighs 2.5 ounces!! You can't beat that!

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Got my Stoic---haven't had a chance ot use it....too hot. My

Got my Stoic---haven't had a chance ot use it....too hot.
My question regards breathability. I plan to wear it mostly as a windshell. How is the breathability? As good as a breathable rain jacket or more like a windproof non breathable jacket?

By:
August 1, 2011

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This material has great breathability, and even a small amount of air permeability approx 4-7 cfm. because this lightweight fabric does not have any coatings, it will breath better than most lightweight shells. we rely on the tight weave and DWR for it weather proofness, but still maintains the ability to breathe and self regulate for comfort.

By: Departmentofgoods.com Employee
October 6, 2011

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I have it and have used it both running and sightseeing. Its not really breathable. Better for low aerobic/walking/hiking activities to keep chill off. If the trail gets steep, you may need to remove it. It is super light and packable.

By:
August 3, 2011

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I do not own the jacket but have tried it on several times at the back country warehouse. The material is strong, and light; but did not come off as being breathable. I would say that it is more like a windproof non breathable jacket, if your making the purchase for this reason I think you would be more than satisfied. Hope this helps!!

By:
August 1, 2011

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Rating for this product: 5

Extra layer of skin

By:
June 24, 2012

Took a 4 mile walk on the edge of tropical storm Debby with the new Wraith. The XL fit my 6'6" 250 frame just right, love the full zip, the hood stayed on my head in the wind, need a baseball cap to keep the rain out of my face. Held off light drizzle for a while, but 2 miles in my sweat met the rain and became one, I didn't expect any different. Changed into a w/b for comparison, and much preferred the more breathable Wraith. Was able to get the drenched Wraith back on, which was not easy, kind of like plastic wrap it is so thin, but got it back on and really enjoyed the rest of the walk. Here in Florida this is all you need 10 months out of the year. I hung it up in my humid garage and it was fully dry in 2 hours. The little pocket held my iPhone and ID just fine. Green color is not as vivid as the website would lead you to believe which is a good thing. At the sale price this is a great buy and a 3 oz savings to my previous shell which I thought I would never switch.

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Rating for this product: 3

Like it

By:
June 13, 2012

Pros - super light weight. Easily jams into its own pocket and easily strapped to the back of my hydration vest. Works well in cool temps and windy conditions.
Cons - Doesn't work so well when the temps get much below 40 degrees. Sizing seems to run on the small side (5'10" 175 lbs). I have a medium and it binds in the shoulder when raising my arms.
Bottom line? I like it a lot for its light weight but I'm not sure I would buy another one.

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How water resistant is this jacket?

How water resistant is this jacket?

By:
July 22, 2011

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the water resistance is good for light and fast conditions - the jacket is light, and when it starts raining its time to run to the car fast! the material does not use a coating, so the breathability is great. the DWR finish we use will repel water, but intended only for the short interval during aerobic activities that keep you warm. If in constant wet weather, a vaporshell jacket would be more suitable.

By: Departmentofgoods.com Employee
October 6, 2011

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Hunter,

So your saying this jackets brethability is pretty bad? Is this in general or compared to other wind shells?

By:
July 24, 2011

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This jacket will be alright with a bit of precipitation. However, in an extended down pour - you'll get wet. Its also going to be fairly breathable (compared to something like a goretex jacket) because its a single layer of woven nylon with a DWR coating. The good news is that even if you do get wet, it'll dry pretty fast - 10-20 minutes depending on temperature/sun exposure etc. I use the lightweight nylon shell to break the wind and repel light moisture - but its no rain jacket.

By:
July 23, 2011

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Josh,

This jacket will keep pretty much anything off, but that means it will keep pretty much everything in, too. Ultra-lightweight shells tend to have zero breathability because of the tight weave required to make a single-layer waterproof fabric.

It's better than a heavy-duty garbage back!

Happy trails!

By:
July 23, 2011

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Rating for this product: 4

Super light!

By: Departmentofgoods.com Employee
June 22, 2012

Good wind and rain protection. Hikers and backpackers shouldn't leave home without one of these. Love how easily and quickly this stuffs into the built-in zipper pocket.

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Rating for this product: 4

Pretty Pleased!

By:
June 15, 2012

I got this guy cause I wanted a light jacket with a hood to run in on those rainy days. It hasn't rained a lick since I got it. I did wear it under running water for a while and water didn't soak through at all, if that means anything. It fits crazy good and is super light, like nothing additional is on.

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Has anyone ordered this and weighed it confirm the specs? I've

Has anyone ordered this and weighed it confirm the specs? I've bought a Norrona windshirt from BC and it was two to three times the specified weight! (not really BCs fault, Norrona continues to claim a weight much lighter than reality). Once bit, twice shy and I just want to make sure that the Wraith really is in the sub 3oz range. It looks to be a great alternative to the NF Verto or CAMP USA Magic Jackets.

By:
July 20, 2011

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Large comes in at 2.4 oz

By:
February 20, 2012

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The weight is spot on, it was actually slightly underweight at just 2.25 oz (medium) on my scale.

Haven't used it yet, but initial impressions were that it is SUPER thin, even for a windshell. It seems much more fragile than pertex, but like I said I have not worn it outside yet.

Will post real review soon.

By:
July 28, 2011

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Dustin, I agree with you. When you buy something it is nice to know that the weights are accurate. Especially when the weight is this little. Heck, if it were 1 oz more it would be a dramatic weight difference in terms of %... I too am curious about the weights...

By:
July 21, 2011

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Dont have it or weighed it but...antill now all my Stoic gear is jast like BC say!

By:
July 21, 2011

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Rating for this product: 1

Sizing is way off

By:
May 31, 2012

I will start with the positives, the material is good and the jacket is very light and comes without the features I would rather do with out. However, the sizing is terrible. I am 6'4" 210lbs with a 34" wait and the xl would fit me if I was standing with my arms by my side. However, I couldn't raise my arms over my head or even put them in front of my because of the super skinny sleeves and strange cut. I returned the xl for an xxl and at least now the sleeves fit appropriately, but the torso is now huge.
I will probably keep this jacket, but make some alterations of my own to see if I can get the fit any better because it is tough to beat the price I got it for. Raw material might be more expensive.

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Rating for this product: 4

Lightweight and Very Packable

By: Departmentofgoods.com Employee
June 14, 2012

The wraith is a supremely light shell that sheds light rain and fits in just about any pocket when you don't need it.

Bought this the day before heading up to photograph the Hill Air Force Base air show for a weekend and it paid for itself in those two days alone. Stuffed in my camera bag, the shell took up hardly any space. Rain, wind, and hail assailed us that weekend and I was able to keep my core warm and dry though it all.

I may have to buy another one for my camera...

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Anyone have a weight on the XL?

Anyone have a weight on the XL?

By:
July 16, 2011

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Ryan,

Thanks for the response. However, when things are this little in weight, even a tiny amount off can be quite substantial... I understand how with some this tiny amount of weight would not make a difference, but on the other hand actual weights may be enough to change a decision for others...

By:
July 21, 2011

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This is a super-light shell, I doubt that the difference in sizes is going to differ in weight more than half an ounce.

By:
July 18, 2011

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Rating for this product: 5

Wow

By:
May 30, 2012

Got this for an amazing price of $35. I'm 5'8", 162lbs, 32" waist, and the medium fits me like a glove. The hood fits very well.

I was so impressed that I then bought another. Never let a good deal get away on something you really like.

Not expecting much rain resistance, just something to cut the wind.

Weight: same as other reviews, medium is 2.25oz.

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Rating for this product: 5

Awesome

By: Departmentofgoods.com Employee
April 22, 2012

I use this thing for everything splitboarding, climbing, trail running, taking the trash out in the rain, fly fishing, etc...
It weighs nothing and packs up super small. There really is no excuse for not owning one or more of these.

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Is this jacket material UPF or UV rated?

Is this jacket material UPF or UV rated?

By: Departmentofgoods.com Employee
June 7, 2011

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it is neither.

By:
July 17, 2011

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I doubt it.. It's see through and not one of the very high tec ones. Plus, when items are rated as such, the item description usually mentions that as a selling point.

By:
June 12, 2011

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Rating for this product: 4

Like one layer of skin

By: Departmentofgoods.com Employee
March 18, 2012

I really like the Wraith. It's incredibly light and thin, making it the perfect layer to take with when you don't have room to pack a layer. It would be absolutely perfect for trail running. Stuff it in your Nathan or Camelbak, and you'd still have room for everything, I mean, everything else you were planning to take.

I have worn this jacket paddle boarding in 70 degree wind and rain (with only my suit underneath), and I have worn this jacket in running in 50 degree wind and sleet (with a long-sleeve merino base layer underneath). Both times, it was the perfect piece. It's incredibly breathable. It's a great wind barrier. And insofar as rain, it is not water proof, but it cuts the drench. I wasn't expecting to be completely dry in either case, but both times, it did the trick in keeping me out there comfortably longer than I would have if I'd not had it.

I'm looking forward to long summertime runs in the Wasatch with this as my secret weapon in case weather sneaks up on me.

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Rating for this product: 4

Sweet

By:
November 23, 2011

So I finally snagged this at a discount and absolutely love it. I'm 5'11" 145lbs with a 37ish chest. I went with the small just because I hate wearing potato sacks. The small seems tight but I can wear it over my small Arc'Teryx Gamma softshell or other mid layer and it doesn't restrict 95% of movement. If I cross my arms (think Chris Farley fat man in a little coat style) it does begin to tighten in the back but doesn't stress the seams enough to worry about tearing.

The biggest detriment is that it is short. Not terrible for just a windshirt but I have a short torso for my height and I feel a medium would have suited me better overall (assuming medium doesn't bump up a lot in girth like with many companies). Also no stretch to the fabric means the cuffs are a bit awkward to remove, especially pulling over the widest part of your hand.

The fabric has a small amount of air permeability so it is breathable a bit. I like the hood, snug without being confining and won't blow off. It stows into a pocket (not mentioned anywhere but really should be marketed) and it is true to spec on weight. My Small comes in at 2.1 oz!

Haven't tested DWR in a drizzle yet (mixed blessing of AZ living) but under a faucet it beads well, but I wouldn't trust it for too long in a storm.

For the price and weight, quibbles on sizing aside, it's phenomenal. It's great enough that if I had to buy another windshirt at full market price, I would buy a Stoic Wraith again, probably just in a medium.

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1 Comment Last Comment: January 31, 2012 by:

By:
January 31, 2012

I wanted to proved more feedback. I still love this windshirt. It's great for exactly that, wind. I keep it with me at all times. However it's water resistance is non-existent. I was caught in a winter rain a few weeks ago and was soaked on the 30 SECOND walk from my car to the office building.

Granted AZ has this strange "fat drop" rain and it rarely "drizzles" but less than a minute to wet out indicates to me that there is no DWR treatment on this product. Not a major issue for me and not why I bought it (hence keeping the 4 star rating) but just something to be aware of. If it had a great DWR I may have bumped the rating up to 5 stars.

I'm going to throw it in the dryer to see if maybe the DWR just needs resetting. If that doesn't help I may use a nikwax or revivex on it.

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Rating for this product: 5

super lightweight, silk-like fabric is great

By:
September 16, 2011

Super lightweight, silky smooth fabric is great for packability and keeping the weather at bay.

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Rating for this product: 5

sleek, lightweight fabric is wonderful

By:
September 11, 2011

Wonderful sleek fabric that's ultralight and makes a wonderful windbreaker. Great buy and great product. Please offer this same jacket in other colors.

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2 Comments Last Comment: January 5, 2012 by:

By: Departmentofgoods.com Employee
September 12, 2011

Additional colors coming for S12 season - arriving in Feb 2012.

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By:
January 5, 2012

Phew, I saw permanently out of stock, and figured you guys had this jacket because it wasn't popular enough. I was beginning to regret not buying another. This is the most useful jacket imaginable in the desert, and I'd be sad to see it go.

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Rating for this product: 5

fabulously light

By:
August 27, 2011

Wonderfully light and comfortable. Just right for almost any event. I'd prefer this exact same jacket in a tan or brown and am ready to purchase if it's made available.

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Change me.

Tech Specs:

Material:
nylon 
Fabric Waterproof Rating:
water-resistant 
Hood:
yes, full-time 
Fit:
athletic 
Pockets:
1 front zip 
Weight:
2.5 oz 
Recommended Use:
trail running, hiking, going ultralight 
Manufacturer Warranty:
lifetime