Bergan’s of Norway Eidfjord Lady Jacket

Field Notes: A womanly shape flows from a panelized design that never forgets the demands of outdoor adventure. The extended back length stands out among options tested by Active Junky, as do the easy-gliding, beefy zippers that avoid sticking or sucking fabric into jamming. A two-way front zipper is competently backed by a sturdy storm flap with welded seaming behind through the jacket’s interior. Pit zip-wise, two-way extended zippers operated easily while dual-position hook-and-loop cuffs meant quick changes even with gloves. Ditto for oversized toggles. Even softer skin is protected thanks to the fleece chin guard.

Pros: Three-layer fabric – including 30% plant-based polyester – fights off the elements, the shape says woman without becoming too restrictive or incapable of midlayers

Cons: Noisy, heavier fabric in a premium-priced jacket, brim on the sloppier (less structured) side

Tester Comments: “May sound weird but I liked the articulated elbows. Made it easy to scramble on the trail and set up camp without the sleeves riding up or binding. Plenty of room around my chin and throughout kept Eidfjord from feeling claustrophobic even when battened down in heavy rains.”

Key Attribute: Protection

Best For: Year-round outings minus hotter summer days, adventure travel even to wet or snowy places