Tried and Trew in the Pacific North-wet, the Cosmic is functional, fly, and feather-light. Weighing in at 23-ounces and sporting 20,000-mm waterproofing, this hard shell spits in the face of oncoming storms. It's tough enough to survive brushes with branches and being dragged along rocks. It is unusually warm for a hard shell, yet breathes exceptionally as body temperatures rise. It is one of the more technical and backcountry-friendly hard shells out there. And it's pretty freaking stylish.
Zippers are seam-taped and heat-welded, so stitching is minimized while waterproofing and durability are maximized. Pockets utilize bi-directional zippers along the 16-inch pit vents so you don't have to remove your shoulder straps to unzip when it's time to let in a breeze. This makes for a happy climber during treks that call for repeated venting. Fleece lining stretches a full 360-degrees in the collar so the zipper won't chafe the chin. There is plenty of space under the hood, so you can even rock it over a helmet without feeling like you're being choked out.
The Cosmic's powder skirt comes with three snap-straps, so it pairs harmoniously with any pants – as long as they have belt loops. Goggles, audio devices and beer cans were taken into account when designing the pockets, so rest-assured you'll have space and optimal access for anything you may need. This jacket also runs $50 less than others in its class. Less is more.
