Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s Review

Let’s Dive into Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s

The Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s is a lightweight softshell designed for climbers and outdoor enthusiasts who need a durable, weather-resistant layer that won’t restrict movement. Mountain Equipment has built a reputation for high-quality gear, and this jacket aims to deliver on that promise with its focus on functionality and minimalist design. The Squall Hooded Jacket stands out because of its climbing-specific features like the helmet-compatible hood and single chest pocket, catering to those who prioritize performance in demanding environments.

I was searching for a lightweight, packable jacket that could handle the unpredictable weather I often encounter while scrambling and climbing in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. My existing softshell was bulky and lacked a proper hood, leaving me exposed during sudden showers or gusty conditions. I needed something that offered more protection without sacrificing mobility or breathability.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the jacket’s minimalist aesthetic and incredibly light weight. The EXOLITE 125 fabric felt surprisingly robust for its weight, and the overall construction seemed very well executed. The Alto Blue color is appealing, and the jacket packs down impressively small, making it ideal for stowing in a climbing pack.

I considered the Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody and the Patagonia Houdini Jacket, both popular lightweight options. Ultimately, I chose the Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s because it seemed to offer a better balance of durability and weather resistance, while still being reasonably lightweight and packable. The climbing-specific features also appealed to me, as I knew I would be using it primarily in mountainous environments.

My initial reaction was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. The jacket felt great, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world conditions.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s on a rock climbing trip to Rumney, NH. The day started cool and breezy, quickly becoming warmer with intermittent showers.

The jacket performed admirably in these conditions. The EXOLITE 125 fabric effectively blocked the wind and light rain, keeping me comfortable while climbing. The breathability was surprisingly good, preventing me from overheating even during strenuous sections. I especially appreciated the helmet-compatible hood, which provided excellent protection during a particularly heavy downpour.

The only minor issue I encountered was that the single chest pocket wasn’t quite large enough to accommodate my phone and a small snack simultaneously.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. It has accompanied me on numerous hiking and climbing trips, enduring everything from light drizzles to gusty winds and abrasive rock faces.

Despite the rough treatment, the jacket shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The seams are all intact, and the fabric hasn’t snagged or torn, showcasing its robust construction. I have washed the jacket a few times, and it cleans easily and dries quickly, maintaining its shape and performance.

Compared to my previous softshell jacket, the Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s significantly outperforms it in terms of weight, packability, and breathability. The climbing-specific features, like the hood and single pocket design, also make it a much more practical choice for my outdoor pursuits.

Breaking Down the Features of Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s

Specifications

• Fabric/Material: EXOLITE 125 stretch double weave Soft Shell fabric provides a good balance of wind resistance, breathability, and durability for its weight. The stretch allows for unhindered movement.
• Weight: 11 oz. The lightweight design ensures it won’t weigh you down during long climbs or hikes.
• Apparel Fit: Active Fit, meaning it’s trim but allows for layering. This provides a good balance between freedom of movement and thermal efficiency.
• Hood: Mountain HC Hood is fully adjustable and helmet compatible. It offers great protection and doesn’t restrict vision.
• Pockets: Single Napoleon chest pocket. This minimalist design keeps the jacket lightweight and uncluttered, while still providing a secure place for essentials.
• Sleeve Length: Long Sleeve with adjustable cuffs. This provides extra protection and allows for customized fit.
• Application: Climbing. The jacket is specifically designed for climbing and other high-output activities.
• Jacket Style: Lightweight Softshell. This offers a good balance of wind resistance, breathability, and water resistance.
• Color: Alto Blue. The color looks appealing and is highly visible.
• Men’s Clothing Size: Medium.
• Gender: Male.
• Age Group: Adults.
• Apparel Weight: Lightweight.
• Condition: New.
• Last Chance: Yes.
• Adjustable cuffs and dual tether hem drawcords: Allow for a customized fit and prevent drafts.
• Over-locked and topstitched construction throughout: Ensures durability and longevity.
• Packs into chest pocket with twin karabiner carry loops: Allows for easy storage and attachment to a harness or pack.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the jacket’s performance and suitability for climbing and other outdoor activities. The lightweight fabric and active fit allow for unrestricted movement, while the helmet-compatible hood and single pocket cater to the specific needs of climbers.

Performance & Functionality

The Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s excels at providing wind resistance and breathability in a lightweight package. It performs its intended job exceptionally well.

Its strengths include its low weight, excellent freedom of movement, and effective wind resistance. A potential weakness is the limited storage capacity, with only one chest pocket. The Squall Hooded Jacket meets and even exceeds my expectations for a lightweight softshell climbing jacket.

Design & Ergonomics

The jacket’s minimalist design is functional and aesthetically pleasing. It has a very clean look.

The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise stitching. The Active fit is comfortable and allows for layering, although it might feel a little snug for some users. There is essentially no learning curve. It’s ready to go out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The EXOLITE 125 fabric has proven to be surprisingly durable. I anticipate it lasting for several years with proper care.

It’s easy to wash, dry, and maintain. The jacket doesn’t require any special treatment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The jacket comes with minimal accessories: the jacket itself and the attached karabiner carry loops. There are no specific customization options offered by Mountain Equipment.

However, the jacket can be easily paired with other climbing gear, such as a harness, helmet, and backpack. It’s also compatible with various base layers and mid-layers, allowing for customized thermal regulation.

Pros and Cons of Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s

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Who Should Buy Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s?

This jacket is perfect for climbers, hikers, and mountaineers who need a lightweight, packable, and durable softshell for protection against wind and light rain. It’s ideal for activities where freedom of movement is paramount.

Those who need ample storage space or prioritize waterproofness over breathability should skip this product.

A must-have accessory would be a lightweight stuff sack for even more compact storage, although the integrated pocket system works well.

Conclusion on Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s

The Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s is a fantastic piece of gear that delivers on its promises. It provides a compelling combination of lightweight performance, durability, and climbing-specific features.

At $129.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and construction. The jacket punches above its weight class.

I would absolutely recommend the Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket – Men’s to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile softshell for climbing, hiking, or other outdoor adventures. It’s a valuable addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s kit. Gear up and get out there!