Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s Review

First Impressions of Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s

The Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s aims to be the ultimate mid-layer fleece for a range of outdoor activities, from summer backpacking to winter hiking. Marketed as a lightweight yet insulating design, it features a scuba-style cinch hood and a classic kangaroo pocket, presenting a blend of practicality and comfort. What truly stands out is the promise of warmth-to-weight ratio, a critical factor for any outdoor enthusiast looking to minimize pack weight without sacrificing performance.

I was seeking a versatile layering piece that could handle shoulder-season backpacking trips and serve as a standalone piece for cooler evenings around the campfire. My goal was to find something that offered excellent moisture management during high-exertion activities and could pack down small when not in use.

Upon unboxing the Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s, I was immediately impressed by its minimalist design. The grid fleece felt soft to the touch, and the overall construction seemed robust despite its lightweight feel. Picking it up, it definitely felt lighter than other fleeces I’ve handled, a promising start.

I considered the Patagonia R1 Fleece Pullover and the Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody before settling on the Summit Grid Hoody. The R1 felt too specialized for colder conditions alone, and the Atom LT, while versatile, felt overkill for milder temperatures and backpacking where breathability is key. The Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s seemed to strike a better balance between warmth, breathability, and packability.

My initial reaction was excitement, particularly regarding the potential for this hoody to become a staple in my backpacking kit. However, I reserved full judgment until I could test its performance in real-world conditions, especially its ability to wick moisture and regulate temperature.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s on a three-day backpacking trip in the Lost Creek Wilderness of Colorado. This involved hiking at altitudes between 9,000 and 11,000 feet, with fluctuating temperatures and intermittent rain showers.

The hoody performed admirably during periods of high exertion, such as steep ascents, providing excellent breathability and preventing overheating. The scuba-style hood proved invaluable during light rain, offering added protection without feeling restrictive. It moved with me; the raglan sleeves did their job.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple backpacking trips, trail runs, and casual wear, the Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s has proven to be a reliable and versatile piece of gear. It’s become my go-to layering piece.

The hoody shows minimal signs of wear and tear, with no noticeable pilling or stretching of the fabric. I’ve washed it multiple times according to the Manufacturer’s instructions (cold water, gentle cycle, hang to dry), and it has maintained its shape and performance.

Compared to other fleece jackets I’ve owned, the Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s outperforms them in terms of breathability and weight. It’s not the warmest fleece I own, but its ability to regulate temperature in a wide range of conditions makes it a superior choice for active pursuits.

Breaking Down the Features of Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s

Specifications

• The Fabric/Material is a Grid Fleece, providing warmth and breathability. The grid pattern helps trap warm air while allowing moisture to escape.
• The weight is listed at 11 oz, making it a lightweight option for backpacking and other activities where weight is a concern. This low weight is a huge advantage!
• The Center Back Length is 27 inches, offering good coverage without being overly long. This helps prevent the hoody from riding up under a backpack.
• It features a center front half zip for venting. This zipper provides temperature regulation.
• The hoody has raglan sleeves for ample mobility. This design allows for a full range of motion without restriction.
• It includes a Kangaroo hand pocket. This provides a convenient place to warm your hands or store small items.
• The hood is a three-piece fitted hood with an adjustable cinch. This hood is crucial for adapting to changing weather conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s excels in its primary role as a mid-layer fleece. It provides a good balance of warmth and breathability, making it suitable for a wide range of activities and temperatures.

Its strength lies in its ability to regulate temperature effectively, preventing overheating during high-exertion activities. The hood adds versatility, providing extra protection during inclement weather, and the Kangaroo hand pocket offers a convenient place to store small items. One weakness is the zipper length could be longer for added venting.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s boasts a minimalist and functional design. Its lightweight construction and athletic fit make it comfortable to wear during a wide range of activities.

The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and solid stitching. The Fabric/Material feels soft against the skin, and the hood is well-designed and easy to adjust. There is little learning curve; it fits well.

Durability & Maintenance

The Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s is constructed from durable materials and is designed to withstand regular use. After months of testing, it shows minimal signs of wear and tear.

Maintaining the hoody is easy; it can be machine washed and dried on a low setting. However, hanging it to dry is recommended to prolong its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s is a relatively simple garment with limited customization options. However, its versatility allows it to be easily paired with other layers and accessories.

There are no specific accessories designed for the hoody, but it works well with a variety of base layers and outer shells. Consider wearing a wool base layer for optimal moisture management.

Pros and Cons of Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s

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Who Should Buy Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s?

The Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s is perfect for backpackers, hikers, trail runners, and anyone seeking a lightweight and breathable mid-layer fleece. It is an excellent choice for those who prioritize warmth-to-weight ratio and versatility.

Those seeking maximum warmth in extremely cold conditions may want to consider a heavier fleece. Those looking for secure storage options may be disappointed by the open kangaroo pocket.

Consider pairing it with a lightweight base layer and a waterproof shell for optimal performance in a wide range of conditions.

Conclusion on Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s

The Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s is a well-designed and versatile fleece that delivers on its promise of providing excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and breathability. For the price, this hoody is an absolute steal and a worthwhile investment.

The price is justified by its performance, durability, and versatility. It’s a fantastic value, considering its construction.

I would absolutely recommend the Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody – Men’s to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile mid-layer fleece for outdoor activities. Grab yours today and experience the perfect blend of warmth, breathability, and comfort!