The North Face Apex Bionic 2 Hooded Softshell Jacket is a warm and windproof layer that is a great choice for walking around town in colder weather and resort skiing. While the jacket offers cozy warmth, fantastic wind proofing, and water resistance, the ventilation is poor, and the fit can be a bit boxy in the torso but tight in the arms. Still, people love the style and ease of use for walks on cold days and going into town, although this is not the best option for those needing a technical soft-shell for high-output activities.
The Fjallraven Keb Jacket for men is a durable, stylish, comfortable, and protective jacket that can be used in a variety of climates due to the material, fit, and technical qualities. The multiple positive reports show the high-quality of the jacket, and despite some issues with the fit of the hood, this jacket is well-liked by many users. The weather protection combined with the functionality, adjustability, and warmth provided make this a top-of-the-line jacket for outdoor adventurers.
The Patagonia Airshed Pullover for men is a lightweight, comfortable, and breathable option that is suitable for high intensity activities in cool weather. Despite not having optimal wind or water resistance, the moderate weather protection coupled with supreme breathability and lightweight materials make this a great option.
The Outdoor Research Uberlayer Insulated Hooded Jacket for men is a warm, breathable, stretchy, and functional jacket that provides optimal versatility due to the layering abilities it provides. Some durability questions may deter some, but for a piece that can be worn in a variety of conditions, under a shell or over a baselayer, this jacket is a great option, providing mobility, fast-drying material, and ample warmth.
The North Face Thermoball Triclimate Insulated Jacket for men is a relatively light but highly weatherproof jacket well-suited for resort skiing. This jacket is good for layering, although on its own is best suited for spring-skiing days, and not long exposure to the cold. With thoughtful details, a stylish fit, and good ventilation, this is a well-designed jacket that works for around-town or resort skiing, but is not necessarily suited for more extreme adventures.
The Houdini Power Houdi Fleece Jacket for men is a comfortable, versatile, breathable, and high-quality piece that can be used in a variety of climates, thanks to the easy layering abilities and properties that allow it to breathe during intense activities. The limited water and wind-resistance makes this not the best choice as an outer layer in any wet climates or windy conditions, and the slim fit may not suit those who are looking to layer underneath. For cold and dry weather, or for layering underneath a shell in bad weather, this is a great option.
The Icebreaker 200 Oasis 1/2-Zip Top for men is a warm, comfortable, and reliable base layer for all sports and conditions. With great warmth and breathability, it shines in high-output activities on cold days, and dries very quickly, resisting odor as well. While overall very comfy, the zipper can scratch at the neck, and there are mixed reviews on the fitted cut. Overall, this is a dependable base layer for even the coldest days, and holds up well enough to be worth the price tag.
The 686 GLCR Hydra Thermagraph Insulated Jacket for men is an insulated, mobile, comfortable, and technical jacket that is designed for long days on the slopes. The design specs, like an asymmetrical zipper, unique venting system, and a mesh pocket for goggles shows attention to detail which makes this a top-of-the-line skiing or snowboarding jacket.
The Icebreaker Quantum Hooded Full-Zip Shirt for men is a breathable, comfortable, well-fitting, and functional shirt that can be used as a mid or base layer. The technical features, such as a headphone cord, snug hood, and dropped hem make this a nice layer for intense outdoor activities, and despite being heavier than some other mid-layers, is a popular choice.
The Arc’teryx Cerium SL Down Jacket for men is a very lightweight, packable, and stylish jacket that is equally at home in the backcountry as around town. Used as a mid-layer, this jacket can provide an impressive amount of warmth for its weight. However, it is an ultra-light jacket so the warmth provided is not unlimited.