First Impressions of Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s
The Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s immediately struck me as a versatile piece designed for active pursuits. Mountain Hardwear has a reputation for quality outdoor gear, and this top appeared to follow suit with its lightweight construction and emphasis on sun protection. I was particularly drawn to its potential as a layer for hiking and climbing, where both breathability and protection from the elements are crucial.
I was seeking a lightweight, packable layer that offered both sun protection and a degree of wind resistance for my backcountry adventures. I needed something that could handle long days in the sun at high altitude, and this seemed to fit the bill.
Upon unboxing, the Stryder Full Zip felt incredibly light, almost insubstantial. The recycled nylon fabric had a smooth texture, and the overall construction appeared well-executed, with clean stitching and a streamlined design. It seemed like the ideal choice for adventures under the sun.
Compared to my Patagonia R1 TechFace Hoody, which offers more warmth, and my OR Echo Hoody, which prioritizes breathability, the Stryder Full Zip seemed to strike a balance between protection and ventilation. I chose the Mountain Hardwear top because it appeared to offer superior sun protection and wind resistance compared to the OR Echo Hoody, without the bulk of the R1 TechFace.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to put the Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s to the test in the mountains and see how it performed in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s on a multi-day backpacking trip in the Eastern Sierra Nevada. The weather was variable, with hot sunny days and cool evenings.
The Stryder Full Zip performed admirably, providing excellent sun protection during the exposed sections of the trail. Its lightweight construction allowed for good ventilation, preventing me from overheating despite the high-altitude sun.
It was easy to throw on or remove as the weather changed. The full zip made it very adaptable to varying conditions. After the first use, I knew this would be a solid garment to protect me from the sun.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I’ve worn it hiking, climbing, and even while fishing, and it has consistently performed well.
The fabric has held up well to abrasion from rocks and branches, showing no significant signs of wear and tear. It has quickly become one of my go to layers for outdoor activities.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wash in the machine followed by air drying is all it takes. Compared to other lightweight layers I’ve used, the Stryder Full Zip has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and versatility.
Breaking Down the Features of Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s
Specifications
- The Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s is constructed from 100% Recycled Nylon, making it a sustainable choice. This lightweight woven fabric provides durability and a comfortable feel against the skin.
- It features a UPF 50 rating, offering excellent protection against harmful UV rays. This is crucial for extended exposure to the sun during outdoor activities.
- The top weighs in at a mere 3.48 oz, making it incredibly packable and easy to carry. This low weight makes it an ideal choice for backpacking and other weight-conscious activities.
- The fabric is treated with a PFC-free DWR finish, helping water bead up and roll off. This provides a degree of water resistance, keeping you drier in light rain or drizzle.
- It includes a secure zip pocket at the left chest for storing small essentials. This pocket is perfect for keeping a phone, keys, or other small items secure.
These specifications contribute to the overall performance and user experience by providing a lightweight, protective, and comfortable layer for outdoor activities. The focus on sustainability with the recycled nylon is a definite plus, aligning with environmentally conscious consumers.
Performance & Functionality
The Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s excels at providing sun protection and wind resistance in a lightweight package. The UPF 50 rating offers peace of mind during long days in the sun, while the DWR finish provides a degree of protection from light rain.
The Stryder Full Zip meets expectations for a lightweight, protective layer. The only slight improvement would be enhanced breathability for high-output activities.
Design & Ergonomics
The Stryder Full Zip features a streamlined design with a regular fit that allows for freedom of movement. The lightweight fabric feels comfortable against the skin, and the full zip allows for easy ventilation.
The design is user-friendly, with no complicated features or adjustments. The three-piece hood with visor offers additional sun protection for the face and neck.
Durability & Maintenance
The 100% Recycled Nylon fabric has proven to be surprisingly durable, resisting abrasion and tears. With proper care, the Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s should last for many seasons of use.
Maintenance is straightforward; machine washing and air drying are sufficient. The DWR finish may need to be reapplied periodically to maintain its water-repellent properties.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s is a fairly minimalist piece of gear, and doesn’t come with an extensive range of accessories. However, it can be easily paired with other layers for added warmth or protection.
The simple design makes it compatible with a variety of backpacks and other outdoor gear. The chest pocket could be expanded.
Pros and Cons of Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s
Pros
- Excellent Sun Protection (UPF 50): Offers peace of mind during long days in the sun.
- Lightweight and Packable: Easy to carry on any adventure, without adding bulk.
- Durable Recycled Nylon Fabric: Resists abrasion and wear, while being environmentally conscious.
- Versatile Layering Piece: Can be worn alone or under other layers for added warmth.
- Full Zip Design: Allows for easy ventilation and temperature regulation.
Cons
- Breathability could be improved for high-output activities.
- Limited insulation for colder conditions.
Who Should Buy Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s?
The Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s is perfect for hikers, backpackers, climbers, anglers, and anyone who spends extended periods of time outdoors in sunny conditions. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a lightweight and packable layer that offers reliable sun protection and wind resistance.
Those looking for a highly insulated layer for cold weather should skip this product. Someone seeking a more robust rain jacket would also be better off looking elsewhere.
A good sun hat and sunscreen would complement this garment nicely. Potentially lightweight gloves for additional sun protection.
Conclusion on Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s
The Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s is a well-designed and versatile piece of outdoor gear that excels at providing sun protection and wind resistance in a lightweight package. While it may not be the warmest or most waterproof option, its durability, packability, and UPF 50 rating make it an excellent choice for a wide range of outdoor activities.
At $120.00, the price is justified by the quality of materials and construction, as well as the performance benefits. This is a great purchase for the outdoor enthusiast.
I would definitely recommend the Mountain Hardwear Stryder Full Zip Top – Men’s to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile layer for sunny adventures. Invest in your outdoor comfort and protection – you won’t regret it!