As always, I’m tasked with finding the best-in-show. Lots of great gear, but I’ve whittled it down to these.

The North Face FlashDry

With all the new latest waterproof/breathable fabrics on the market, there’s one thing that remains constant — water droplets. With all laminated fabrics from Gore-Tex, eVent, Polartec and the like, the most efficient way to transfer perspiration through them is in vapor form. Well, changing perspiration droplets into vapor takes time and that time is what makes you wet from the inside-out.

To combat this, The North Face has developed their new FlashDry™ technology and will be releasing it on nearly 100 items for Fall 2012. FlashDry will be a core part of several key new products as well as being added to many of their top-performing items.

A quick bit from The North Face on FlashDry:

The porous particles of FlashDry® work with your body to regulate temperature by accelerating moisture removal and dramatically improving dry time. Individually, articles with FlashDry™ outperform anything available on the market, but when worn together in a layering system with a baselayer, mid-layer and jacket, the dry time is even faster than when wearing alone.

The technical demo of the fabric was what wow’d me. Two fabric swatches (one with FlashDry and one without), a constant drip and a puddle under one and nothing under the other. The FlashDry fabric dried so quickly that the water never even had time to fully-saturate the fabric while the regular fabric soaked it up and allowed the water to puddle below. Amazing.

Look for FlashDry in a wide variety of products from base layers to hard-shells this Fall.

Patagonia Light Flyer Jacket

I’m always a fan of lightweight, breathable shells. For my activities of choice, I’m always leaning towards the breathable side of waterproof/breathable. With that in mind, Patagonia will introduce their 9.1 oz Light Flyer Jacket.

Intended as a weatherproof/breathable running shell, Gore Active will allow this jacket to battle anything Mother Nature dishes out while breathing like a champ. Breathability is aided by unique upper-arm vents to allow gobs of airflow. And when the unexpected becomes chilly and cold, the asymmetric cuffs feature built-in mittens to allow you to stay out longer.

Look for the Patagonia Light Flyer Jacket this Fall at a reasonable $279.

Garmont Cosmos Touring Boots

Lots of great new backcountry ski boots were on display, but the one that captured my attention and wrapped my foot in absolute comfort was the new Garmont Cosmos. Billed as the lightest 4-buckle boot on the market at 1450 grams, the Cosmos doesn’t just go for lightweight, it adds a dose of versatility and comfort to the mix.

While the competition does have some great boots, I have to give the nod to the Cosmos for its amazing comfort, supreme walkability with a full 65-degree cuff rotation and overall simplicity of the design. Constructed of 100% Gryllamid, it balances weight reduction with stiffness to make a winning design.

It doesn’t attempt to “out gadget” the competition, instead it provides a no-nonsense design that will withstand years of use and abuse in the backcountry. I loved the stiffness and walkability the most as it goes from a mountaineering boot to a vert-devouring machine in a jiffy. At $699, it’s not the cheapest in its class, but it is on par with the competition.

Black Diamond Covert Avalung Pack

Black Diamond has emerged from the Avalung recall with a vengeance. New materials and design changes highlight the lifesaving device and have it being built into an entirely-new backcountry ski pack lineup. The hero of the group is the Covert pack that sports a complete re-design.

Starting with the backside, the Covert now features floating shoulder straps to flow better with your natural skiing movements. Add on top of that new pivoting waistbelt and you’ve got what BD is calling their “Active Suspension Platform”. The covert now has a sleek new design and includes niceties such as a versatile helmet holder and soft-lined goggle pocket.

Columbia UltraChange Jacket

Gone are the Bugaboo’s of yesteryear, Columbia has some seriously-impressive stuff coming down the pipe. Tops on that list is the UltraChange Jacket. Ditching the bulky and heavy zip-in design, this two-piece shell keeps the system together with a few strategically-placed loops.

Built with strategic combinations of Omni-Wick Evap and Omni-Heat fabrics, the UltraChange impressed me with its fit and comfort in a way no other jacket has. The suppleness of the outer shell and the way the entire package felt like “one” while still remaining independent was truly unique.

Sierra Designs DriDown

From a young age in Seattle, I was told that down bags were a no-no in a wet climate, so I never experienced the wonderfulness of a down sleeping bag until moving to Utah. Now, that advice can be thrown out the window… Sierra Designs DriDown treats down feathers with a hydrophobic polymer treatment that keeps it dry 7-times longer than untreated down with 98% loft retention and 33% faster dry time. The demo says it all as these identical containers were allowing water to enter into the down feather side. One is soaked and the other side has retained its loft and is nearly dry.

DriDown will initially be available in sleeping bags this June at your local REI. Then, a series of DriDown jackets will be released in the Fall.

I will say that this year has been particularly difficult to pin down as I’ve become even more selective about the products I’m reviewing. But, these products certainly stand out from the crowd.

Polartec NeoShell, Gore-Tex Active Shell and Mountain Hardwear Dry.Q

It’s hard to pick a single winner among this bunch, but for consumers, the latest crop of waterproof/breathable fabrics are much improved from the multi-layer laminates of yesteryear. Yes, Gore-Tex did invent waterproof/breathable many years ago, but while it was waterproof, it didn’t breathe all that well. eVent opened the door (or should I say vents) when it hit the market about 10 years ago and now we are finally seeing waterproof be breathable (for real).

I’m in the process of testing The North Face Jammu (Polartec Neoshell), the Arc’teryx Beta FL (Gore-Tex Active Shell) and the Mountain Hardwear Snowtastic Jacket (Dry.Q Elite) and I’m not ready to pick favorites among that bunch, but I will say that all three fabrics have finally hit the mark and for that we can all rejoice.

Fox Kashima Coat Shocks and Forks

I set out to determine if Kashima Coat was the real deal and I came away floored at just how much it improved the suspension feel. My tests included head-to-head test rides between standard RP23 and Kashima version and it took me all of 50 feet to realize that it is well worth the price of admission. My review of the RP23 Kashima is forthcoming, but the 32 Float 29er fork has me wrapped around its shiny golden legs. Read my review…

Specialized S-Works Road Shoes

I can’t say enough good things about these shoes. The Boa Lacing System is the star of the show as you can easily dial in the fit on-the-fly. Just today I was able to adjust the fit of my shoes while wearing my Sugoi Resister shoe covers… try doing that with traditional buckles or straps! Yes, they are spendy, but the comfort and function is off-the-charts good. Read my review…

Giro Aeon Helmet

Scary light and oh-so-comfortable, the Aeon helmet is so well ventilated, it feels like you’ve got the A/C cranked up on high. The fit adjustments are easy to navigate (great for Winter riding to adjust to a skullcap) and the lightweight straps make you wonder why nobody has done that yet. Kudos to Giro on a great road helmet. Read my review…

ControlTech Carbon Comp Ergo Bars

Continuing with the road bike theme, the ControlTech Carbon Comp Ergo Bars have been a delight since I installed them this Summer. I was skeptical since my Specialized Roubiax Expert required re-routing the internal cable lines, but the investment in shop time has more than paid itself off in the extreme comfort and improvements in ride quality these bars provide. Yup, I really dig them. Read my review…

Truvativ NOIR T30 10S Carbon Flat Bars

Truvativ’s new NOIR T30 10S carbon flat bars are perfect for 29er trailbikes. At 710mm wide, I was worried about maneuverability, but quickly became accustomed to the extra width. The ride quality is superb and the upsweep and backsweep of these bars really puts you in the driver’s seat with extra control and steering precision. Read my review…

Platypus Origin 3 Hydration Pack

I’ve worn this hydration pack all season and haven’t even thought about pulling any of my other packs out of storage. Not once have I felt this pack was inferior to even my favorite hydration packs. Platypus really nailed it with the Origin series. The sleek, waterproof design and comfortable back panel have kept this pack in my car all year. Read my review…

SRAM X0 Drivetrain

I’m a big fan of SRAM’s crisp, accurate shifting and the new X0 2×10 drivetrain has now graced three different bikes this season and performed flawlessly on each rig. I love the fast shifting, lightweight design and overall smoothness, but unless you’re on top of your game, the 2×10 drivetrain might leave you wanting on long, steep climbs. Still, nothing I’ve tried beats out X0′s durability and Energizer-esque work ethic. Read my review…

Rocky Mountain Element 950 29er

This one surprised me. I’ve ridden a Rocky Mountain 29er before, but nothing as fun and playful as the new Element 29er. Without question, the new Element 950 should be on your shortlist when considering a new FS 29er. For $3200, you’re getting a flat-out fun trailbike that can be raced or ridden as a daily driver. I’m anxious to get more saddle-time on this one. Read my review…

Specialized Camber Pro 29er

Specialized has quickly cut their teeth on big wheels and this year’s Camber Pro 29er is an awesome example of just how far they have come. I had such a great time on the Camber Pro that I pulled the trigger to keep it around a little longer for comparison. For 2012, the biggest changes are the addition of the carbon frames to the Camber family and a new tapered head tube, but the performance will remain. Read my review…

Niner Jet 9 Al 29er

Niner can seemingly do no wrong, it seems. And, while I’m admittedly smitten by the new Jet 9 RDO, lets not overlook this beauty in the Niner lineup. The Jet 9 Al is a superb XC machine that still has excellent trail manners. Pedal this thing uphill until you puke and then proceed to rip the downhill in a way only a Niner can. Read my review…

Specialized Roubiax Expert SL3

I put a ton of miles on my Roubiax this year and I owe it all to the added comfort and smoothness the Roubiax provides. Without question, the more upright position has allowed me to spin more miles on the pavement than ever before. My lower back thanks me and my lungs are grateful for the added conditioning my morning ascents have given them. I’m looking forward to hundreds more miles on this great bike. Read my review…

Salomon Spirit Shoes

Casual shoes… yup… casual shoes. To the office and around town, I find myself reaching for the Salomon Spirit’s. These ultralight shoes have pounded out the pavement in Las Vegas, wandered around tradeshow floors and around town in amazing comfort. I’ve yet to find a pair of casual shoes that are as equally comfortable and stylish. Read my review…

Smith Vantage Ski Helmet

The Vantage truly is a game changer. It’s lightweight construction and easy-to-use vents are as good as it gets in the ski helmet world. This helmet is very comfortable and feels almost like you’re wearing just a beanie it’s so light. If you are looking for a new lid this season, the Vantage is the one I’d recommend. Read my review…

Patagonia Nano Storm Jacket

Patagonia is leading the charge on so many fronts (sustainability, lightweight design, recycling, etc.) that its no wonder the Nano Storm Jacket is so kick-butt. I love the ultralight feel of the Nano Storm, but also appreciate that it holds up to the worst Mother Nature can dish out. It’s packable, warm and ultra-comfortable. Read my review…

Patagonia Whino Lace Shoes Features:

• Polyester laces
• 100% polyester lining provides comfort and durability
• 70% recycled polyurethane footbed with 100% recycled polyester cover provides support and comfort
• 20% recycled EVA/rubber outsole provides lightweight cushioning combined with durability and traction on smooth, wet surfaces
• Medium/wide width, medium arch/instep
• Weight: 284 g (10 oz)
• Colors: Black, Retro Khaki, Dark Burlap, Henna Brown (tested)
• MSRP: $100

Patagonia Whino Lace Shoes Review

Over the years, I’ve been able to review a variety of footwear from Patagonia. The full shoe line has a ton to offer everyone from the serious trail runner to the serious lounger. This time around, I opted for a pair of everyday shoes. The Whino Lace Shoes have been awesome with only a few minor quibbles.

Lets talk about the construction of the Whino. The uppers are made from hemp (yes, hemp). You’re likely familiar with the characteristics of this material, but if you’re not, it’s a great material for footwear. It’s very durable, breathable and, if done right, is highly-sustainable. You know Patagonia is going to do things right.

Some shoes require minimal break-in, but keep in mind that the Whino Lace will get much more comfortable after several days of wear. The midsole and uppers just need a few miles to conform to your feet and give you the best experience. Now, after several months, the Whino’s provide serious comfort for all-day wear. I like the Henna Brown color with jeans and these shoes even hold their own with shorts.

The low-profile outsoles are siped for extra all-conditions traction. For the lack of tread, I’m surprised how grippy these shoes are. Wet pavement or loose terrain really doesn’t phase these much as I’ve enjoyed surprisingly-capable traction. It’s nice to have the outsoles be non-marking in case you want to enjoy a pick-up basketball game at the gym (I suppose).

As I’ve worn the Whino Lace’s on some long, warm days, I’ve loved how well they breathe. My feet tend to get pretty warm, but I’ve  stayed comfortable all day long.

The only real frustration with these shoes is the sizing. I tend to wear a 10.5 in Patagonia’s other casual shoes, but these are a tad long in a 10.5, which causes me to occasionally catch my toe on things. They do have a narrow fit, but also tend to run longer than I think they should.

Good Whino Lace

• Excellent mix of materials (with a nod to sustainability)
• Very comfortable for all-day wear
• Surprisingly-grippy in all conditions
• Show little wear after 4 months of extensive use
• Excellent styling

Bad Whino Lace

• Sizing is a little large (I’d size down a half size)
• Initial break-in period is a little long

Bottom Line: Patagonia Whino Lace Shoes

If you’re looking for a pair of outdoorsy casual shoes, the Patagonia Whino Lace is an excellent option for all-day comfort. Once broken-in, these offer a slipper-like fit and show little signs of wear after several months of extensive use.

Buy Now: Visit Backcountry.com

Patagonia Guide Jacket Features:

• Main panels: 70-denier wind-resistant polyester with 4-way stretch fabric
• Deluge DWR (durable water repellent) finish
• Brushed fleece interior
• Microfleece-lined collar, chin guard and wind flap
• Two zippered handwarmer pockets
• Vertical chest pocket
• Articulated sleeves
• Drawcord hem
• Weight: 524 g (18.5 oz)
• 6 color options
• MSRP $149

Patagonia Guide Jacket Review

Of course, if you’re only packing one jacket for all your activities, it better have a good collection of features.  Patagonia’s Guide is a midweight soft shell that covers all the basics, with a clean, straightforward design that’s equally suitable for athletics or casual use.

The strongest feature of this jacket is its wind resistance and insulation.  Panel construction consists of 100% wind-resistant polyester, and the DWR coating provides adequate water resistance to make it back to the tent or the car.  Like most Patagonia garments, the Guide earns green points for using recycled polyester (think soda bottles and secondhand fabrics) in the main panels.

Stretch polyester exterior panels; large mesh handwarmer pocket

Insulation for the Guide is fairly impressive for its weight; when lounging around camp, it’s good into the mid-40s, but with aerobic activity the jacket will keep you warm into the 30s with a short-sleeve base layer.  The sleeves aren’t bulky, but are roomy enough to layer a long-sleeved shirt underneath.  The soft shell material is breatheable for moisture transfer during exercise, but the jacket tends to run on the warm/wet side compared to similar-weight jackets I’ve tested.  One other downside I found during aerobic activity is that the polyester exterior can feel somewhat rough when wiping sweat off your skin – but that’s what gloves are for, I guess.

The interior of the Guide is super comfortable, with a soft brushed lining on the main panels, and mesh microfleece around the collar and chin.  Fit of the jacket is slim through the trunk, which prevents the exterior from getting snagged during activity such as climbing or navigating off trail, but the 4-way stretch properties of the polyester allow full range of motion in all directions.  Coverage in the back is adequate for most “upright” activity but will feel short when used for MTB riding.

Cozy interior fleece lining

Minor accents on the Guide include an elastic drawcord hem, zipper garages, articulated sleeves, and low-profile cuffs.  Its handwarmer pockets are enormous, extending above the zipper area up to the chest, allowing you to stash gloves, a hat, or similarly sized soft gear as necessary.  One accent that’s lacking is a media cord pass-through on the vertical chest pocket.

Good Guide

• Very comfortable interior
• Great wind resistance
• Good warmth for weight
• Clean styling for casual or active use

Bad Guide

• Sluggish moisture transfer
• Coarse outer surface

Bottom Line: Patagonia Guide Jacket

The Guide jacket is one of Patagonia’s best sellers, and it’s easy to see why.  It offers a great combination of protection and performance for a full day of activity, and is comfortable enough to wear for the rest of the evening afterward.

Buy Now: Visit Patagonia.com

Patagonia Boaris A/C Shoes Features:

• Durable and abrasion resistant full grain leather upper; pigskin leather panels are stain resistant and perforated for breathability
• Durable nylon eyelets for abrasion resistance and leather eye row protection
• Trek-Dry® mesh lining wicks moisture and controls odor; POLI-CORK 70% recycled open cell foam footbed with carbon to neutralize odor and cork to move moisture naturally
• 2.5mm nylon 6.6 injection molded arch shank provides support under the arch and a natural flex at the ball of the foot; 100% recycled insole provides support and underfoot protection
• Patagonia Air Cushion Plus provides shock absorption
• Low Profile Vibram outsole provides ultimate traction with self cleaning lugs; stitched outsole construction provides durability while minimizing the use of solvents and adhesives
• Medium width, full toe box, medium arch/instep
• Colors: Sable Brown (tested), Gravel
• Weight: 425 g (15 oz) – pair
• MSRP: $115

Patagonia Boaris A/C Shoes Review

Patagonia makes a ton of great outdoor products but oftentimes their footwear gets overlooked. Over the years, I’ve tried a handful of their shoes and have been impressed with their unique designs and materials. The Boaris A/C has been on my radar since seeing them at Outdoor Retailer some time ago.

Offering casual skate-inspired styling with loads of perforated leather and pigskin trim for a natural feel and excellent breathability. On top of the natural materials, the rest of the shoe is constructed smartly with Air Cushion Plus midsole and a 70% recycled insole. After all is said and done, the entire package works well and though it does have skate-inspired looks, it doesn’t look or feel like a skate shoe.

Some shoes require minimal break-in — just slip them on and head out. These shoes, however, do require a short break-in period. At first, they weren’t nearly as comfortable as they are now. This is primarily due to the insoles as they do take a few wears to conform to your feet. I’ve worn these completely stock and have found them good for my super-flat feet. I do wish for just a little more overpronation support in the shoe’s design. Perhaps just an extra pigskin band that crosses the uppers in the middle of the arch?

Traction is great all-around with the low-profile Vibram outsoles. It’s always nice to get a name-brand outsole and these are offering excellent durability and traction in mixed terrain.

Overall, my favorite feature of these is the built-in A/C. The little ventilation holes really allow this shoe to breathe for all-day comfort. Omit the vents and these shoes would get downright toasty on warm days. As it stands, my feet feel just right.

The lacing system provides a quick, secure fit and the uppers overall really feel nice. I haven’t had any hot spots or any comfort issues to speak of. The only thing I’ll note is these do run small, so size up 1/2 at least. I think I would be best in a 10.5, as the 10′s feel a little snug in anything but ultrathin socks.

Good Boaris A/C

• Breathability superpowers for all-day comfort
• Vibram outsole provides excellent traction
• Once broken-in, these things are super-comfy
• Subtle, skate-inspired design

Bad Boaris A/C

• Bit of a break-in period (2-3 uses)
• Runs small

Bottom Line: Patagonia Boaris A/C Shoes

Looking for a good pair of casual shoes that can walk the line between kicking it with the bro’s and hanging in the office? The Boaris A/C just might do the trick. You’ll appreciate the subtle outdoorsy style and your feet will appreciate the all-day comfort with built-in A/C.

Buy Now: Visit Patagonia.com

Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts Features:

• 75-denier 91% polyester/9% spandex material construction
• Deluge Durable Water Repellant (DWR) finish
• 8” inseam
• Built-in microfiber moisture-wicking liner
• Internal drawcord
• 2 front drop-in pockets, 1 rear zipper pocket
• Recyclable through Common Threads recycling program
• Weight: 184g (6.5 oz)
• MSRP $59.99

Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts Review

It not always a good thing when I have high expectations for a piece of gear; more often than not, it just leaves me disappointed once I actually test it out.  That’s why I’m happy to say that with the Nine Trails shorts, my lofty expectations were completely satisfied.

The Nine Trails have been a longtime staple of Patagonia’s trail running catalog; indeed, they were one of the company’s first products specifically designed for that activity.  They offer a nice combination of comfort, breatheability, and durability that ultrarunners appreciate – and I experienced these benefits first hand during this month’s Miwok 100K race in Northern California.

Finishing the Miwok 100K

One of the most impressive aspects of the shorts is its fabric construction, featuring a highly breatheable stretch-woven polyester fabric (made from recycled plastics) with a 4-way stretch component from a small dose of spandex.  The material feels extremely light and comfortable against my legs, but has 75-denier toughness for resisting snags and tearing.  Its thin microfiber liner is extremely soft, and assists the outer layer with highly effective moisture management.  The outer surface has Patagonia’s patented DWR water-resistant finish to help keep moisture off your skin as well.

With any shorts, the most friction and heat comes in the crotch area; on the Nine Trails, Patagonia combats this by using a fast-drying Air Flow polyester mesh fabric to vent excess heat and eliminate chafing.  During my 100K, I had no chafing issues whatsoever from these shorts, even after 12 hours in hot and windy conditions.

Inseam area with Air Flow mesh

Other features include 2 front pockets that work well for stashing gels or tissue paper, and a rear zip pocket to secure your car key or a small map.  An interior drawcord helps customize the fit, and the logos on front and back are reflective for a small element of safety.

Inseam length on the Nine Trails is 8”, which is right in my wheelhouse.  I tend to be partial to longer inseam lengths (7” to 9”) for trail running, because I’m a bit taller than average (6’2”) and I like the extra coverage for long days in the sun.  There isn’t a shorter option, however, so if you’re working on a higher tan line this summer, you’ll need to look for a different model.

Good Nine Trails

• Extremely comfortable
• Outstanding breathability and moisture management
• No chafing even with multi-hour use
• Convenient pocket storage

Bad Nine Trails

• Longer inseam than traditional trail shorts

Bottom Line: Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts

Super comfortable and highly durable, Patagonia’s Nine Trails shorts will be my go-to apparel for the rest of my ultras this season; coming from a  dedicated trail runner, this is probably the highest praise you’ll ever hear.

Buy Now: Visit Patagonia.com

Patagonia Olulu features:

• Hemp and suede leather upper provides breathability and durability; pigskin leather lining provides comfort and durability
• Dri-Lex merino wool footbed lining provides temperature and moisture control
• 20% recycled EVA midsole provides cushioning and comfort
• Big Honeycomb 70% natural hevea-milk Skywalk latex outsole
• Opanka stitched outsole construction provides durability while minimizing the use of solvents and adhesives
• Medium width, full toe box, medium arch/instep
• 325 g (11 oz)
• Colors: Sable Brown (tested), Dark Burlap
• MSRP: $120

Patagonia Olulu Shoes Review

I’m always on the lookout for a good casual shoe with an outdoorsy spin. The Patagonia Olulu shoes are a great example of what Patagonia is doing right for the outdoor industry. The construction of the Olulu’s focuses on minimizing solvents and maximizing the use of recycled or sustainable materials. The uppers feature a combination of hemp and suede leather and the bathtub-style honeycomb outsole simplifies the design while providing a slipper-like feel.

So what do I really like about these? Lets start with the overall comfort. These are definitely a low profile design with minimal to no ramping, so you get a very natural feel. As I mentioned before, it’s quite slipper-like with no hard edges, just a natural roll with every step. That natural roll is matched with a well-cushioned, but supportive midsole and a soft insole. Many times I need to wear SOLE or Superfeet insoles in my shoes, but not with these. My flat feet are well-cradled and the minimalist style of these never feels unnatural or uncomfortable.

I’ve walked miles per day in these shoes and have not once felt uncomfortable. With so many clunky and overbuilt shoes on the market, the Olulu’s are refreshing in their simple comfort. I also dig the wide toebox, which allows my toes to wiggle in comfort.

The suede and hemp uppers breathe very well and keep my feet comfortable — this is no small thing as my feet are typically too warm in most leather shoes. I have noticed a little wear in the toes where the suede is getting scuffed, but other than that I’m seeing little signs of use on both the uppers and outsoles.

As far as traction goes, I’m not about to go hiking in these, but traction is solid for around town and normal activities. Their comfort lends themselves to walks with the kids and general mayhem.

Good Olulu

• Wide toebox allows for plenty of wiggle room
• The tub-like outsole makes for smooth walking
• Low-profile comfort
• Lightweight design never feels bulky
• No break-in period
• Surprisingly supportive and comfortable for my flat feet right out of the box
• Highly breathable

Bad Olulu

• Low profile doesn’t provide much wet or snow protection
• I’d rather see full-grain leather/hemp combo, but that’s more of a personal preference
• My right shoe has some sort of clicking going on in the midsole that comes and goes, but seems to be fading over time

Bottom Line: Patagonia Olulu Shoes

I dig the lightweight comfort of the Patagonia Olulu’s. Some may not appreciate the low-profile and rolling-friendly lowers, but my feet feel cradled and my stride uninhibited in the office and around town. Think of these as office-friendly slippers. Not just any slippers… the most comfortable slippers you own — yeah, that’s about right.

Buy Now: Patagonia Olulu Shoes at Altrec.com

Patagonia Traverse Jacket Features

• Stretch-woven recycled polyester soft shell
• 70 denier 4-way mechanical stretch fabric
• Deluge DWR finish for weather protection
• Mesh-lined stand-up collar
• Two zippered hand pockets
• Small bicep pocket with media cord opening
• Gathered cuffs with elastic openings
• Weight 314g (11.1 oz)
• MSRP $99

Patagonia Traverse Jacket Review

You’re heard of “one size fits all” … now say hello to “one style does all.”  The Traverse is one of those jackets that’s versatile enough to wear for virtually any outdoor activity, and durable enough to handle whatever conditions you encounter.  I’ve used it primarily for trail running, hiking, and mountain biking, but it would be equally suited for bouldering, XC skiing, or any other activity where you want comfortable protection from the elements that doesn’t impede your natural movement.

Comfortable before and after sunrise

Part of this jacket’s versatility is thanks to its shape.  Patagonia’s slim fit cut is loose enough to layer underneath but close enough to stay out of your way.  The collar sits just tall enough to keep the wind off your neck when it’s zipped up, but low enough to stay below your jawline.  Pockets are where you’d expect them to be, and the cuffs are gathered with simple elastic.  The backside has a slightly dropped tail for good coverage on the bike.

More importantly, however, is the material construction used on the Traverse.  The breathable recycled polyester shell – which, in true Patagonia fashion, is composed of used soda bottles, second quality fabrics and worn out garments – is woven with 4-way stretch fabric to provide extended range of motion in all directions.  The material has a slightly coarse exterior finish, but the interior surface feels very comfortable against the skin.  A very nice bonus feature I’ve discovered is that that the Traverse has outstanding odor protection; I’ve worn it for multiple days in a row, logging upwards of 50 consecutive miles between washings, and I never noticed the “fourth workout in 4 days” funk that many of my other jackets acquire.

My favorite run thus far was a 10-miler on hilly trails on a cold, intermittently rainy early morning two weekends ago.  Pushing the pace up the climbs, the Traverse breathed well enough to keep me from overheating, and kept me nicely insulated whenever the wind picked up.  The DWR coating held the rain at bay with each passing cloudburst, and the jacket never became baggy from taking on water.  Instead of returning to the house cold and shivering, I finished the run feeling like I could easily go another 10.  That’s my kind of jacket.

Comfort in the rain

Since I’ve previously reviewed Patagonia’s Nine Trails jacket here, a brief comparison is in order.  The Traverse is heavier, warmer, and provides better wind and water resistance, while the Nine Trails is more lightweight and easier to stuff into a bag or wrap around your waist when the day gets warm.  Temperature-wise, wearing a short-sleeve baselayer underneath, I typically wear the Nine Trails for temps from high 40s to high 30s, and the Traverse for low 40s to low 30s.  The Nine Trails may be my preferred choice for high-intensity trail running, but the Traverse is my clear favorite for multi-use activity.

Good Traverse

• Solid wind resistance for breezy days or MTB riding
• Super comfortable fit and feel
• Excellent versatility for multi-purpose use
• A good value

Bad Traverse

• Feels slightly heavy if you’re really pushing the pace

Bottom Line: Patagonia Traverse jacket

Patagonia’s Traverse jacket is one of the most comfortable and versatile jackets I’ve tested this winter.  If you have to pick a single jacket for a wide range of off-road endurance activities, the Traverse is an outstanding option.

Buy Now: Search GEAR.com for the Patagonia Traverse Jacket

Patagonia Nano Storm Features:

• Exterior fabric: 2.5-layer nylon ripstop with a waterproof/breathable H2No® barrier and Deluge® DWR
• Lightweight 60-g PrimaLoft® One polyester insulation
• Quilted pattern to maintain insulation consistency
• Helmet-compatible, fully-adjustable hood with laminated visor
• Watertight zippers
• Pockets: two handwarmers, one left chest; one internal zippered pocket, one drop-in
• Velcro sleeve cuffs
• Dual-adjust drawcord hem
• Weight: 652 g (1 lb 7 oz)
• Colors: Fog (tested), Black, Ball Blue
• MSRP: $299

Patagonia Nano Storm Jacket Review

As I’ve grown wiser in my days, I’ve come to appreciate some of the finer things in life. I’ve found that I love wearing lightweight natural or synthetic insulation, but I also dig wearing lightweight, breathable shells. Most of the time, I appreciate having them separate so I can layer at will, but every so often, it is nice to have an insulating, bombproof jacket for ultra-cold days on the slopes or around town.

With the Patagonia Nano Storm, you get Primaloft One insulation, all stuffed into a waterproof/breathable jacket with all the goodies you’d expect from Patagonia. While many insulated jackets can tend to feel bulky, awkward and heavy, the Nano Storm is none of that. Next to natural down insulation, Primaloft One is as good as it gets. It’s ultralight, packable and warm.

The Nano Storm is a simple jacket, but the combination of insulation and weatherproof exterior makes for a solid one-two punch that makes this jacket stand out. I especially appreciated the insulation on a single-digit ski day at Solitude Mountain Resort. The body of the jacket maintained excellent warmth all day, but in those cold temps, the sleeves did get a little chilly. Keep that in mind… you may want to still wear a little thicker mid layer when the temps drop into the singles.

Some of the nice touches of the Nano Storm stand out during use. Stuff like the extra threaded ports for the hood drawstrings, soft-lined handwarmer pockets and waterproof zippers all add up to make this jacket a winner. I love the feel of the insulation as it really feels natural and non bulky in use. Other insulated jackets I’ve worn tend to feel heavy or cumbersome — not so with this one.

Patagonia’s H2No and Deluge DWR exterior proved to provide excellent protection from the elements as it simply sheds moisture. As with many insulated jackets, it doesn’t breathe as well as a straight shell does, but it does breathe as well as I’d expect it to and will stay warm even when wet.

I really dig the attached hood for its insulated comfort and overall design. The rear drawstring keeps everything properly situated on your head and the visor brim kept its shape well and provided extra face protection from the elements without hindering visibility.

The two major complaints I’ve got with the Nano Storm are that the sleeves could be articulated a little better and a powder skirt or grippy hem would be nice additions to this jacket. On the sleeves, I found the cuffs and forearm areas to bunch up instead of sit flat with my natural arm and wrist movements. An anatomically-cut cuff would likely reduce this while improving the fit when wearing gloves. And, while skiing, I found I had to re-adjust the hem every so often as it would ride up. Some grippy material or a removable powder skirt would mitigate that issue.

Good Nano Storm

• Ultralight insulation
• Very compressible
• Waterproof H2No fabric sheds weather well
• Comfy handwarmer pockets are like a refuge for your hands
• Waterproof zippers reduce bulk and weight
• Glove-friendly zipper pulls
• Hood fits well and adjusts with a single pull

Bad Nano Storm

• Could use a removable powder skirt or grippy hem to keep it in place
• Sleeves could be more articulated for an improved anatomical fit
• Sleeve insulation can be lacking when temps drop to single digits

Bottom Line: Patagonia Nano Storm Jacket

The Patagonia Nano franchise is in good hands now with the Nano Storm Jacket. The Primaloft One insulation is ultralight, packable and warm down to single digits. I dig this jacket for the slopes and around town and appreciate all the goodies it has to offer. This is a great jacket with lots of features at a reasonable price.

Buy Now: Patagonia Nano Storm Jacket

Patagonia El Ray Shirt Features:

• Made of all-recycled polyester, nylon yarn dye
• Provides 40-UPF sun protection
• Fabric is highly breathable, quick-drying, wrinkle resistant, and soft
• Two snapdown chest pockets
• Snapped placket
• Modest tails
• 2.5-oz 57% all-recycled polyester/43% nylon with 40-UPF sun protection. Recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Program
• 167 g (5.9 oz)
• MSRP:

Patagonia El Ray Short-sleeved Shirt Review

As part of the iconic outdoorsy wardrobe of short-sleeved plaid shirts, the Patagonia El Ray short-sleeve shirt fits in nicely. It wears well with jeans and is a comfortable shirt that can be worn in more demanding situations than just the boardroom.

I’ve enjoyed wearing the El Ray this Summer in a variety of conditions and have appreciated the easy care of the wrinkle-resistant fabric and its ability to travel well. On several trips, I stuffed the shirt in my backpack and was able to pull it out and wear it without looking like I slept in it. I wouldn’t call the fabric wrinkle-free, but it resists wrinkles and doesn’t have to be handled with care to maintain its appearance.

In warm weather, the El Ray’s combination of 57% recycled polyester and 43% nylon wears extremely well. I appreciated how quickly it dried and just how comfortable it was on even the warmest of Summer days.

The only drawback I noticed was that occasionally it would get stinky under the arms after a couple of wears. If you wash it with every wear, you’re golden, but if you like to go a few wearings between washes, you may get a little more than you bargained for.

Good El Ray

• Easy wrinkle-resistant care
• Dries quickly
• Looks sharp tucked or untucked
• Very lightweight and breathable

Bad El Ray

• Can get stinky after a couple of wears

Bottom Line: Patagonia El Ray Short-sleeved Shirt Review

This wrinkle-resistant shirt feels comfortable in the heat of the Summer and wears well year-round. Take it on a hike and it wicks moisture and dries quickly. Patagonia has done well with the king of short-sleeved plaid shirts.

Buy Now: Search for Patagonia El Ray Shirts