Rating: 4 / 5
Pros:
Waterproof, dries quickly, extremely compact and easy to pack, good wind breaker, does not get “sticky”, also available in olive green
Cons:
Does not breathe, so it is HOT in hot, humid weather; no hood
The Bottom Line:
This is a good jacket to have handy in the desert and in cooler climates when it might rain, but when it isn’t cold enough for a jacket just yet. It also does well as an outer water- and wind-proof shell over warmer clothes in cold weather. It’s small size and compressibility make it easy to toss in your bag or even in a cargo pants pocket. I would not recommend this jacket for the tropics or humid climates, even with it’s light weight, as the lack of breatheability makes it very hot in such conditions.
I’ve had one of these tucked away in my go-bag for months now, but haven’t really had a chance to try it out until this past weekend’s thunderstorms. As usual, we decided to head out in the rain and enjoy tourist-free hiking/climbing in Joshua Tree, my lack of a lightweight waterproof jacket no deterrence. As a waterproof outer-shell the Packable Jacket performs excellently, I was completely dry the entire time up top. Well, except for perspiration which is where the jacket falls short. Unfortunately, it is quite unbreathable and gets quite hot inside, quite fast (especially in hot/humid weather). It was comfortable during the cold of the storm, but as soon as it started to clear (and warm up) I opted to open it up and take my chances. I will say this though: despite being hot inside it did not stick to me like I’ve been told so many other similar jackets do.
Drying it off is a cinch, even in humid weather, and it was ready to pack up again not 5 minutes after the rain stopped. It packs up quick and easy, and when packed the Packable Jacket will fit nicely in most small bags, a standard BDU cargo pocket or the rear-center pocket of the 5.11 Tactical Vest (no doubt intentionally).
$20 from LAPG…
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