Columbia has definitely put a stake in the ground in the industry and is putting the usual suspects on notice. Many don’t know that they own Mountain Hardwear, Montrail and have recently acquired OutDry as a waterproof/breathable membrane that’s well-suited to gloves and shoes. With that said, their current marketing campaigns for Omni-Heat are definitely getting noticed for their, ahem, technology. I’ve been using the Columbia Shimmer Me Timbers Jacket for a few months this Winter and the verdict is out.
Columbia Shimmer Me Timbers Jacket features:
- Fabric: Shell: 100% nylon. Lining: 100% polyester. Insulation: 50% polyester/50% recycled polyester, 100g
- Omni-Heat thermal reflective and insulated
- Omni-Shield advanced repellency
- Interior security pocket
- Attached, adjustable hood
- Center back length: 30”
- Colors: Breen (tested), Black, Compass Blue
- MSRP: $120
Columbia Shimmer Me Timbers Jacket Review
The biggest draw with the Shimmer Me Timbers is the use Omni-Heat technology. As my first opportunity to put it to the test, let me just say that the stuff works. Compared to other puffy jackets I own, this one simply outshines them all as far as warmth goes.
The Shimmer feels comfortable, but is not built for technical pursuits as it is quite a baggy fit, lacks a drawstring at the hem and sports wide cuffs at the sleeves. I opted for the Large, but I think I could have gone with the Medium for a more athletic cut, but that wouldn’t have solved all the missing pieces that make this more of a casual jacket instead of a technical one.
I like that it’s built with some recycled materials (insulation is 50% virgin and 50% recycled). But, the insulation isn’t quite as packable as the best synthetics on the market (Primaloft Eco). However, this jacket is also offered at a great price point compared to those jackets.
I found the Omni-Shield exterior to be decent at shedding light snow and water, but the second the snow or rain became more solid, the beading stopped and the fabric started to get saturated. I didn’t get enough saturation to really wet down the insulation or penetrate the jacket, but moisture doesn’t bead up like I’d expect it to.
Due to the fit of this jacket, I couldn’t really push its limits in the backcountry. It simply doesn’t pack down enough and lacks the aforementioned technical features to make this a true backcountry companion for my tastes.
Good Shimmer Me Timbers
- Omni-Heat technology is WARM
- Comfortable hood keeps in warmth
- Synthetic insulation keeps warmth even when wet
- Excellent pricepoint
Bad Shimmer Me Timbers
- Sleeve cuffs are a little too large in diameter
- Overall jacket cut is a bit oversized
- Could use a bit better DWR treatment to shed water (Omni-Shield was so-so)
Bottom Line: Columbia Shimmer Me Timbers Jacket
This jacket is all about warmth. Without a doubt, Omni-Heat technology is warm. It’s like wearing a space blanket-lined puffy as it reflects so much body heat to keep the elements at bay. However, it’s not as technical as I’d like, so under the right application (non-aerobic, non-technical use), it’s definitely a winner.
Buy Now: Find Columbia Jackets at REI
