Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s Review

The Truth About Using the Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s

The Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s promises lightweight, packable, and durable wet-weather protection. As someone who’s spent over a decade battling unpredictable mountain weather and urban downpours, I was eager to see if this jacket lived up to the hype. Mountain Hardwear claims this jacket is versatile enough for both city commutes and backcountry adventures, but my experience tells me that some gear shines in one area more than the other.

I was searching for a reliable shell that wouldn’t weigh me down on long backpacking trips. My existing rain jacket, while robust, felt like carrying an extra brick in my pack. The listed packability and waterproof nature of the Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s drew me in.

Unboxing the jacket, I was immediately struck by its incredibly light weight. The GORE-TEX PACLITE fabric felt thin but substantial, with a smooth, almost slippery texture. The minimalist design and dark daze colorway appealed to my preference for understated, functional gear.

Compared to my heavier, more traditional Gore-Tex shell from Arc’teryx, the Mountain Hardwear jacket felt almost weightless. Another shell I considered was the Patagonia Torrentshell, a well-regarded budget option, but I opted for the Exposure/2 because I was willing to pay more for the superior packability and potentially enhanced breathability of the GORE-TEX PACLITE fabric. My initial excitement was tempered by a bit of skepticism – could something this light really withstand serious weather?

Real-World Testing: Putting Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s was a weekend backpacking trip in the Olympic National Forest. The forecast predicted intermittent rain, perfect for putting the jacket through its paces. I hiked through dense forests and along exposed ridges, encountering both light drizzles and short, intense downpours.

The jacket performed admirably in the varying conditions. The GORE-TEX PACLITE fabric kept me completely dry, even during the heavier rain. The adjustable hood provided excellent coverage without obstructing my vision.

Initially, the jacket felt a bit stiff, but it quickly softened with movement. There was no learning curve involved; it was intuitive and easy to wear right out of the box. My only surprise was how well the slim fit allowed for layering underneath.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including numerous hikes, camping trips, and even a few unexpected urban deluges, the Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve worn it in everything from light sprinkles to driving rain, and it has consistently kept me dry.

So far, the jacket shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The fabric has held up well to abrasion from backpack straps and branches. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Compared to other lightweight rain jackets I’ve used, the Exposure/2 offers a noticeable improvement in breathability. While no rain jacket is perfectly breathable, I felt significantly less clammy in this jacket than in my previous, less expensive shells. It definitely outperforms my old standby in terms of weight, packability, and breathability.

Breaking Down the Features of Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s

Specifications

The Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s is built with several key specifications. It uses GORE-TEX PACLITE 2-Layer Recycled Plain Weave, which is made of 100% Recycled Polyester. This contributes to the jacket’s lightweight and packable design.

Weighing in at just 11.8 oz, it’s easy to justify bringing along for unexpected weather changes. The Slim Apparel Fit is designed to allow layering while minimizing bulk. The Center Back Length measures 29 in, providing ample coverage. The jacket is equipped with Zippered hand pockets.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the jacket’s performance and suitability for various activities. The lightweight fabric and slim fit make it ideal for activities where weight and mobility are crucial. The use of recycled materials aligns with a growing desire for more sustainable outdoor gear. The GORE-TEX PACLITE construction provides a balance between waterproofness and breathability.

Performance & Functionality

The Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s excels at its primary job: keeping you dry. The GORE-TEX PACLITE fabric is reliably waterproof, even in heavy rain. While the “slim” fit might concern some, I found it allows for layering without feeling restrictive.

The jacket’s main strengths are its light weight, packability, and waterproof performance. The adjustable hood and cuffs provide a customized fit. One area for potential improvement would be the addition of pit zips for increased ventilation during high-exertion activities.

Overall, the jacket meets and even exceeds my expectations for a lightweight rain shell. I now rely on it for activities where weight and pack space are at a premium.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s is excellent for such a lightweight piece. The materials feel durable and the seams are well-constructed. The jacket is comfortable to wear, thanks to its lightweight fabric and articulated design.

The design is user-friendly, with intuitive adjustments for the hood and cuffs. There’s no significant learning curve involved. The jacket’s minimalist aesthetic is also appealing.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, I expect the Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s to last for several seasons of regular use. The GORE-TEX PACLITE fabric, while lightweight, appears to be relatively abrasion-resistant. Proper care, such as washing the jacket periodically with a Gore-Tex-specific detergent, will help to maintain its waterproof performance.

Maintaining this jacket is very straightforward; simple washing keeps it clean. Repair, while hopefully unnecessary, may require professional assistance for patching or seam repairs due to the specialized GORE-TEX fabric.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, focusing instead on core functionality. It includes zippered hand pockets and an adjustable hood and cuffs. The jacket is highly packable and stuffs into its own hand pocket, which also has an internal carabiner clip loop.

Customization options are limited, as it’s designed as a minimalist shell. However, it is compatible with layering systems from other brands. Adding a lightweight fleece or insulated jacket underneath will expand its usability in colder conditions.

Pros and Cons of Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s

Who Should Buy Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s?

The Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s is perfect for backpackers, hikers, and travelers who prioritize lightweight and packable gear. It’s also a great choice for urban dwellers who need a reliable rain jacket for commuting and everyday use. Climbers may appreciate the lightweight design.

This jacket may not be the best choice for those who require maximum durability or who frequently engage in activities that demand pit zips. Construction workers or heavy brush bushwhackers should look for something tougher. Someone needing maximum warmth should also look elsewhere.

A must-have accessory would be a lightweight base layer or fleece jacket for added warmth in cooler conditions.

Conclusion on Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s

The Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket – Women’s is an excellent lightweight and packable rain shell that delivers reliable waterproof protection. While it lacks some of the bells and whistles of more expensive jackets, its core performance is impressive. At $116.49, the price is justifiable for the performance and packability this jacket offers.

I would definitely recommend this jacket to anyone looking for a lightweight and versatile rain shell. It’s a great value for the price, especially for those who prioritize packability and performance. Gear up, get out there, and don’t let the rain stop you!