Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker Review

Let’s Dive into Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker

The Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker promises to be a versatile piece of kit, bridging the gap between a simple rain jacket and a more substantial softshell. Manufactured by Condor Outdoor, this windbreaker boasts a water-resistant, breathable, and 4-way stretch ripstop nylon construction, aiming to provide protection from the elements without sacrificing mobility. Its lightweight design and various pockets make it appealing for a range of outdoor activities, but does it live up to the hype?

I was searching for a lightweight jacket that could handle unpredictable weather on hiking trips and range days. I needed something packable, breathable, and capable of shedding light rain without being too bulky or restrictive. I wanted something that I could trust to keep the wind off me on exposed ridgelines or protect me from a sudden downpour, without feeling like I was wearing a plastic bag.

Unboxing the Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker, my first impression was positive regarding its light weight. The ripstop nylon felt reasonably durable for its weight, and the overall construction seemed decent. The material was softer than I expected, which I appreciated.

I considered the Patagonia Houdini and the Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody, both excellent lightweight windbreakers, but the price point of the Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker was more appealing. I was also drawn to the added storage options, particularly the shoulder pockets, which the other two lacked. I chose the Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker hoping to get similar performance at a fraction of the cost.

My initial excitement was tempered by some reservations about the Condor Outdoor’s reputation for quality, but I was cautiously optimistic. I was curious to see how it would perform in real-world conditions.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker on a day hike in the Cascade Mountains. The weather was unpredictable, with sunshine alternating with light rain and gusty winds. The jacket proved effective at blocking the wind, keeping me comfortable on exposed sections of the trail.

The windbreaker handled the light rain adequately, beading water off for a short time. However, after about 30 minutes of consistent drizzle, the water resistance started to fail, and I began to feel dampness seeping through. The breathability was acceptable, but during strenuous uphill climbs, I noticed some moisture buildup inside.

The fit was comfortable and allowed for a good range of motion, which was essential for navigating rocky terrain. I didn’t require any time to get used to it, it was pretty much ready to go right out of the box.

There were no immediate issues after the first use, but I did notice some loose threads around the pocket seams, which raised concerns about long-term durability. I found that the zippers, though YKK, felt a little sticky.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker has held up reasonably well. I’ve used it for several more hikes, some range days, and even a few fishing trips. The jacket has become a staple in my pack due to its packability.

There are some signs of wear and tear, particularly around the elbows, where the abrasion-resistant patches show some pilling. The water resistance has diminished noticeably with repeated use and washings, and I’ve had to reapply a durable water repellent (DWR) coating. Regular machine washing of the garment will degrade the water resistance and breathability over time.

The windbreaker is relatively easy to clean; I simply toss it in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. It does take a while to air dry completely.

Compared to my Arc’teryx Atom LT, which is a more substantial mid-layer, the Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker obviously doesn’t provide as much insulation. However, it’s significantly lighter and more packable, making it better suited for warmer weather or activities where weight is a concern. The windbreaker performs as expected for its price point but doesn’t outperform more expensive options in terms of durability or weather resistance.

Breaking Down the Features of Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker

Specifications

• The Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker is constructed from 100% nylon softshell 4-way stretch ripstop material. This provides a good balance of durability, flexibility, and water resistance.
• The windbreaker features a stand-up collar with a mesh lining. This provides some neck protection and comfort.
• It has two shoulder pockets and two highrise slash chest pockets. The shoulder pockets are ideal for small items like a phone or GPS, and the chest pockets offer ample storage for larger items.
• The Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker includes two 3.5″W x 4″H shoulder patch panels. This allows for customization with morale patches or unit identifiers.
• It also has two internal pockets. These pockets can be used to store valuables or additional gear.
• The windbreaker features underarm vents. This helps to regulate body temperature during periods of high activity.
• The elbows are reinforced with abrasion-resistant elbows. This adds to the jacket’s durability in high-wear areas.
• It features adjustable wrist cuffs. The adjustable cuffs can be tightened to seal out the wind or loosened for ventilation.
• The windbreaker has a full front YKK zipper with double zipper pull. This provides reliable closure and allows for ventilation from the top or bottom.
• The windbreaker weighs approximately 1 lb. Its light weight ensures portability, especially important for outdoor activity.

Performance & Functionality

The Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker performs reasonably well as a lightweight wind and rain shell. The wind-blocking ability is excellent, and the water resistance is adequate for light rain. The jacket has a comfortable, unrestrictive fit, allowing for a full range of motion during activities like hiking, shooting, or fishing.

The primary weakness is the limited water resistance, which degrades over time. The breathability could also be improved, as I experienced some moisture buildup during strenuous activities. Overall, the windbreaker meets expectations for its price point but doesn’t excel in any particular area.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent, with reasonably durable materials and reinforced stress points. The Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker weighs approximately 1 lb, making it easy to pack and carry. The fit is generally comfortable, but some may find the stand-up collar slightly restrictive.

The design is user-friendly, with intuitive pocket placement and easily adjustable cuffs. There is no significant learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker should last for several seasons with proper care. The ripstop nylon is reasonably durable, and the reinforced elbows provide added protection.

The jacket is machine washable and relatively easy to maintain. However, the water resistance will need to be reapplied periodically with a DWR treatment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The windbreaker doesn’t come with any accessories, but the shoulder patch panels allow for customization with morale patches or unit identifiers.

The Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker is compatible with most standard base layers and mid-layers. There are no specific modifications that are essential, but reapplying a DWR coating will improve water resistance.

Pros and Cons of Condor Outdoor Lightweight Windbreaker