Let’s Talk About Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s
The Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s is designed to be an incredibly lightweight and breathable softshell, built for active pursuits where freedom of movement and minimal weight are paramount. Mountain Equipment is known for its high-quality outdoor apparel, and the Aerofoil jacket is intended to be a versatile piece for hiking, climbing, and other activities where weather protection and packability are key.
I was searching for a lightweight, packable jacket that could provide wind resistance and light rain protection during shoulder-season hikes. I needed something that wouldn’t weigh me down but could still offer a degree of warmth and weather protection when the conditions changed.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by how incredibly light the jacket is. The material feels thin but surprisingly robust, and the fit seems athletic without being overly restrictive. It certainly feels like a premium piece.
I considered the Patagonia Houdini Jacket and the Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody, but ultimately chose the Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s because it seemed to offer a better balance of breathability and weather resistance. The Mountain Equipment also seemed to offer a more tailored fit, which is important for layering.
My first impression was one of excitement. The jacket felt like a promising solution to my layering needs, and I was eager to put it to the test on the trails.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s on a moderate hike in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The weather was variable, with periods of sunshine, light wind, and a brief, light rain shower.
The jacket performed admirably in these conditions, effectively blocking the wind and repelling the light rain. I was impressed by how breathable the jacket remained, even during periods of exertion. I was comfortable throughout the hike and never felt overly hot or sweaty.
There were no major issues during the first use, although I did notice that the Napoleon chest pocket was a bit small for my larger smartphone. I also found that the hood, while adjustable, could have offered slightly more coverage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s has held up remarkably well. I’ve taken it on numerous hikes, trail runs, and even a few bike rides.
The jacket shows no significant signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to abrasion from backpacks and branches. The zippers still function smoothly, and the fabric has retained its water-repellent properties. Cleaning the jacket is easy; a simple wash in cold water and a tumble dry on low heat restores it to its original condition.
Compared to other lightweight jackets I’ve used in the past, the Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s definitely outperforms them in terms of breathability and durability. The fit is also superior, allowing for a greater range of motion and more comfortable layering.
Breaking Down the Features of Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s
Specifications
- Fabric/Material: EXOLITE 45 Stretch Double Weave Soft Shell. This double-weave construction provides a great balance of wind resistance, breathability, and stretch.
- Weight: 4.2 oz. This is incredibly light, making the jacket highly packable for any adventure.
- Pockets: Zipped Napoleon Chest. A single chest pocket provides secure storage for small essentials.
- Sleeve Length: Long Sleeve. Offers full arm coverage for added protection.
- Apparel Fit: Close Body. A tailored fit allows for comfortable layering without excess bulk.
- Gender: Female. Specifically designed for the female form.
- Age Group: Adults. Suitable for adult women.
- Application: Hiking. Perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the jacket’s overall performance and versatility. The lightweight fabric and close body fit make it ideal for active pursuits, while the wind and water resistance provide protection from the elements. The stretch double weave enables comfort and freedom of movement.
Performance & Functionality
The Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s performs its intended job exceptionally well, providing wind resistance, light rain protection, and excellent breathability. Its performance exceeds expectations for such a lightweight garment.
The jacket’s strengths lie in its minimal weight, breathability, and comfortable fit. The only real weakness is the limited storage, with just the one chest pocket.
The jacket more than meets my expectations. It provides the protection and breathability I need for my active pursuits.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise stitching. The jacket is incredibly lightweight, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The jacket is user-friendly with no real learning curve. The fit and simple design make it easy to incorporate into any layering system.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s feels durable for its weight and should last for several seasons of moderate use. Proper care, such as avoiding abrasive surfaces and washing according to the manufacturer’s instructions, will help prolong its lifespan.
The jacket is easy to maintain; machine washing and tumble drying on low heat is all that’s required. This ease of care makes it a practical choice for regular use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The jacket comes with twin karabiner carry loops which are integrated into the pocket when stowed. This allows you to easily clip the jacket to your harness or backpack.
There are no significant customization options available for this jacket beyond choosing from the available colors. The focus is on minimalist design and functionality.
Pros and Cons of Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s
Pros
- Incredibly Lightweight & Packable: Easy to stow and carry for fast and light adventures.
- Excellent Breathability: Prevents overheating during high-output activities.
- Wind Resistant & Water Resistant: Provides protection from the elements.
- Comfortable, Athletic Fit: Allows for a full range of motion.
- Durable Construction: Holds up well to regular use.
Cons
- Small Napoleon Pocket: Limited storage space for larger items.
- Limited Hood Coverage: The hood could offer slightly better protection from wind and rain.
Who Should Buy Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s?
The Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s is perfect for hikers, trail runners, climbers, and anyone who needs a lightweight and packable softshell jacket. It’s ideal for activities where breathability and freedom of movement are paramount.
Someone looking for a more robust, waterproof jacket should skip this product. If you require significant storage or enhanced weather protection, you’ll need a different garment.
A lightweight baselayer and a packable rain jacket would complement the Aerofoil, providing versatility in a wider range of conditions.
Conclusion on Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s
The Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s is an exceptional piece of gear that delivers on its promise of lightweight protection and breathability. It offers excellent performance in a variety of conditions and is built to last.
At $93.49, the price is justified given the jacket’s quality, performance, and versatility. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who values lightweight, packable gear.
I would definitely recommend the Mountain Equipment Aerofoil Full Zip Jacket – Women’s to anyone looking for a high-quality softshell for active pursuits. Get yours today and experience the freedom of movement and protection it offers!