Here’s the jacket you’d build if you were a billionaire headed for mixed climbing dominance.  Take solid waterproof breathable Dry Q Elite fabric, an athletic-but-not-constricting fit and pile in performance features from hem to hood.  A two-way zipper (radical for many) and a single hem toggle mean fitting options down low.  High and generous hand warmer pockets dodge both pack and waist straps, capped off by zipper garages.  An interior stretch sunglasses pocket left and zippered ID pocket right guard the essentials.  Two hood drawstrings get managed inside the jacket to avoid snapping in high winds or snagging on goggles, gloves or climbing gear.  Testers kept running on like caffeinated auctioneers about the wire-brimmed hood with a slightly elongated shape that amps up peripheral vision without getting sloppy.  Finally, quiet, durable fabric and a microfiber chin guard calm down blustery conditions. With Mountain Hardwear, you find peace even in the middle of (potential) peril.  MH dubs it their lightest alpine climbing shell; Active Junky’s ready to go on-belay with their crew anywhere.

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