By Peter Reese

CORE CONCEPTS MONSOON TO MARKET

The idea of transformation is nothing new (anyone old enough to remember the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers?). Outdoor gear has never been exempt from the multi-tooled, variable-featured, Swiss Army knifed, all-in-oned "gear of a thousand combinations."

Core Concepts (www.corelayers.com) reels it back in to dual modes, jacket and long-strapped purse, with the MONSOON TO MARKET shell. At first look, it seems like a scarce selection of options. That's until the subtle intelligence of the design - and the uncompromising performance in the main jacket mode - becomes obvious.

Testers were, in fact, dubious of the presto-changeo promise of the MTM, one of Core's SWITCHBACK SERIES. At a manageable MSRP of $130.00, doubts grew versus more established brands like Patagonia and Outdoor Research. Mint and plum color choices, though attractive, suggested greater suitability for lawn sprinkler overspray than backcountry soakers.

Wrong, wrong and wrong. Built on 2.5 layer Shelter Dry laminate fabric, the MTM features fully-taped seams and waterproof zippers. Breathable even when squalls hit, the jacket's front pockets double as vents (another mini-transformation). At 10 oz., three-way hood adjustability keeps head and hair protected and permits battening down of the hatches in driving rain conditions.

The market element is lots of fun with reasonable function attached. As the jacket disappears, a shoulder sling appears to tether a rectangular purse. A button-down front closure gives some measure of security to the lightweight carrier. Suitable for a few incidentals versus toting back wine, cheese and bread to the hostel or campsite, the purse is best equipped to stow an unneeded midlayer, maps and energy bars.

One tester appreciated the MTM's easy-going style that didn't attract too much attention, security-wise, in the purse mode. If the desire to run or ride occurs, the purse-satchel can be cinched down to minimize flopping or bouncing.

Core's DOUBLE SHOT SOFT SHELL (MSRP $210), while not tested, converts from mid-thigh to hip length for winter warmth. Here, we'd anticipate a simple transition between modes and style beyond traditional unisex shapes. Expect a good value in a piece that covers two seasons seamlessly.

Whether travel looks like National Park sightseeing or a much-anticipated Vietnamese pho-fest, MONSOON TO MARKET is one for the road.