Outdoor Research Cathode Insulated Hooded Jacket – Men’s

We’ve read the reviews across the web for the Outdoor Research Cathode Insulated Hooded Jacket – Men’s and summarize the results below:

Universal Ranking

PeakScore: 87 (out of 100)
User Rating: 4.6 stars 
Expert Rating: 3.8 stars

Number of Ratings Reviewed: 76

Pros & Cons

Reasons to buy:

User Reviews

  • Stylish and functional.
  • Water-resistant.
  • Breathable and packs well.
  • Good for layering in colder temperatures.
  • Keeps you warm but prevents overheating due to breathability.
  • Features Pertex 20D for durability.
  • Baffled for increased warmth.
  • PrimaLoft Gold is lightweight and warm.
  • Keeps you warm even when the material gets wet.
  • Hood is well-designed and provides a snug fit around your head.

Expert Reviews

  • Performs very well as a mid-layer, under a shell for wind protection.
  • Warmer than other ‘hybrid’ jackets on the market.
  • Scores high in terms of comfort due to the enhanced mobility and the stretchy side panels.
  • Hood cinches down on top of your head and provides adequate mobility.
  • Features quilted sections where the jacket touches your chin for comfort.
  • The zipper pulls are easy to use, and secure the hand pockets and chest pocket for storage.
  • Two drop-in pockets allow for secure storage inside the jacket.
  • Elastic cuffs are used on the sleeves to keep them in place, and are lined with a soft, quilted material for comfort.
  • The third lightest jacket in this review.
  • Created for a balance between breathability and wind-resistance, for efficiency.
  • Features 60 grams of PrimaLoft Gold, providing adequate warmth.

Reasons NOT to buy:

User Reviews

  • Might be too warm for some intense activities.
  • Doesn’t block heavier wind.
  • Hood does not fit over a helmet.
  • Reports of the jacket running a size small.

Expert Reviews

  • The stretchy side panels allow for breathability, but let warmth escape.
  • The wind can enter through the side panels.
  • No DWR treatment on the outer fabric.

Summary:

The Outdoor Research Cathode Insulated Hooded Jacket for men is a versatile, breathable, mobile, and warm mid-layer jacket that is suitable for multiple activities in a variety of climates. Despite not being the best in one metric, this jacket scores highly on all fronts and is a great all-around choice for almost any outdoor adventure.

Multimedia:

Note: User and expert rankings were reviewed across the web, including here: 1, 2, 3.