Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s Review

First Impressions of Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s

The Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s promises to be a game-changer in the realm of lightweight, packable rain gear. Outdoor Research has built a reputation for quality and innovation, and this jacket aims to deliver superior mobility and weather protection. I’ve been perpetually searching for the “holy grail” of rain jackets: one that’s lightweight, breathable, and doesn’t restrict movement when I’m scrambling up a rock face or navigating dense brush.

Years of using less-than-stellar rain jackets during demanding outdoor expeditions led me here. Too often, I’ve been soaked despite wearing a rain jacket due to trapped moisture or been hindered by stiff, unyielding materials. The Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s intrigued me with its promise of GORE-TEX PACLITE protection and super stretch – a combination I hadn’t seen before.

My first impression upon unboxing was positive. The jacket is incredibly lightweight and packs down surprisingly small. The material felt soft and pliable, a stark contrast to the crinkly, rigid feel of many other waterproof shells I’ve used. The black color is classic and understated, suitable for both outdoor adventures and everyday wear.

I considered the Arc’teryx Beta AR and the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L before settling on the Foray. The Beta AR is a fantastic jacket, but its price is significantly higher. The Torrentshell is more affordable but lacks the stretch and breathability I was seeking. The Foray seemed to strike a good balance between performance, price, and features. I was excited by the potential of finally having a rain jacket that felt like a part of me, not a bulky impediment.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of the Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s occurred during a late spring backpacking trip in the Olympic National Forest. The forecast called for intermittent rain and cool temperatures, the perfect conditions to put this jacket through its paces. I hiked approximately 10 miles through varying terrain, from lowland rainforest to subalpine meadows.

The jacket performed admirably in the wet conditions. The rain beaded up nicely on the surface and the GORE-TEX PACLITE kept me completely dry. The “super stretch” back panel was immediately noticeable, allowing for a full range of motion while navigating over fallen logs and up steep inclines. I didn’t feel constricted or like I was fighting the jacket with every movement.

The Foray was remarkably easy to use straight out of the box. The zippers functioned smoothly and the fit was true to size. I did appreciate the TorsoFlo venting during periods of higher exertion to dump heat. After a full day of hiking, I was impressed with the jacket’s performance, though I did notice some slight clamminess during periods of high humidity, which is expected even with breathable fabrics.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s continues to impress. I’ve worn it while hiking, kayaking, fishing, and even as an everyday rain jacket around town. It has held up well to the rigors of outdoor use.

I haven’t noticed any significant signs of wear and tear. The seams are still intact, and the DWR finish continues to repel water effectively. I have noticed the DWR requires refreshing more often than other jackets I have owned. The jacket is relatively easy to clean. I typically wash it in cold water with a mild detergent specifically designed for technical fabrics.

Compared to previous rain jackets I’ve owned, the Foray offers a noticeable improvement in both comfort and mobility. The stretch back panel is a genuine game-changer, making this jacket far more comfortable to wear during active pursuits. While its breathability isn’t quite on par with some higher-end (and significantly more expensive) jackets, the TorsoFlo venting helps to mitigate moisture buildup.

Breaking Down the Features of Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s

Specifications

The Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance. It utilizes GORE-TEX PACLITE fabric for waterproof and breathable protection. The back panel incorporates a super-stretch material to enhance mobility.

• Material: GORE-TEX PACLITE with a 100% recycled face. This is key for lightweight waterproofness with a reduced environmental impact.
• DWR: PFCEC-Free DWR finish. This is an environmentally-friendly durable water repellent finish.
• Venting: TorsoFlo Venting – Hem-to-bicep zippers. This allows excellent ventilation to regulate temperature.
• Fit: Regular Fit. Offers a comfortable fit without being too baggy.
• Weight: Relatively lightweight and packable. Enhances portability for travel and storage.

These specifications translate to a jacket that’s both environmentally conscious and highly functional. The recycled face fabric and PFCEC-Free DWR demonstrate Outdoor Research’s commitment to sustainability. The TorsoFlo venting provides a significant advantage in managing moisture and preventing overheating.

Performance & Functionality

The Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s performs its primary function of keeping you dry exceptionally well. The GORE-TEX PACLITE fabric provides reliable waterproof protection, even in heavy rain. The breathability is adequate for moderate activity levels.

The jacket’s stretch back panel is a standout feature, significantly enhancing freedom of movement. However, the breathability could be improved. Overall, it does meet my expectations for a lightweight, packable rain jacket with enhanced mobility.

Design & Ergonomics

The Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s features a streamlined and functional design. The build quality is excellent. The jacket feels well-constructed and durable.

The design is user-friendly, with intuitive features like easily accessible pockets and smooth-operating zippers. There’s virtually no learning curve to using this jacket. The fit is comfortable and allows for layering underneath.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience thus far, the Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s appears to be a durable piece of gear. I anticipate it lasting for several seasons with proper care. The jacket is relatively easy to maintain.

Regular washing with a technical fabric cleaner and occasional reapplication of DWR will help to prolong its lifespan and performance. However, the DWR may need more frequent reapplication than on some other jackets.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories. However, it is designed to integrate well with other outdoor gear. It’s compatible with layering systems.

The hood is adjustable and can be easily stowed away when not needed. There are no specific customization options available. However, users can personalize it with patches or embroidery if desired.

Pros and Cons of Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s

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Who Should Buy Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s?

The Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s is perfect for hikers, backpackers, climbers, and anyone who needs a reliable and comfortable rain jacket for outdoor activities. It’s also a great option for everyday wear in wet climates. Those who prioritize unrestricted movement will especially appreciate this jacket.

Individuals engaging in extremely high-intensity activities may find the breathability limiting and might want to explore more specialized (and expensive) options. People who require maximum durability for extremely rugged use cases might also consider heavier-duty options. Must-have accessories include a technical fabric wash and a DWR re-treatment spray.

Conclusion on Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s

The Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket – Men’s is an excellent all-around rain jacket that offers a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and value. The super-stretch back panel sets it apart from many other waterproof shells. The $164.49 price is justified by its high-quality construction, reliable weather protection, and enhanced mobility.

I would definitely recommend this jacket to anyone looking for a versatile and comfortable rain shell for outdoor adventures or everyday use. It strikes a great balance between features, performance, and price. Go ahead and add it to your cart, you won’t be disappointed.