Description of Mountain Hardwear Pinnacle Jacket - Men's:
Mountaineers and alpine climbers demand the utmost in waterproof protection, breathability, and mobility. Mountain Hardwear responds to this demand with the Men's Pinnacle Jacket. With a highly waterproof Conduit lining and a touch of stretch, this superlight shell shields alpinists from the mountain's worst. Welded seams create an impenetrable barrier and eliminate the weight of stitching and tape. Articulated sleeves increase your freedom of movement, and chest-high hand pockets stay accessible when you sport a harness. The Pinnacle Jacket's ergo hood accommodates a helmet and stows away when you want less bulk.
Bottom Line: The waterproof Pinnacle Jacket's performance fit and light weight combine to make your alpine climb a success.
I bought this jacket mostly for skiing and I love it. It is very waterproof and light. It fits any kind of layer under it from a softshell to a thick primaloft jacket. Nice buy if you dont want to pay the high price for gore-tex.
The product description describes this as a superlight shell, and it is indeed very thin and light. The hood is not detachable, and although there is a velcro tab to tuck it under, this really just keeps the hood from flopping around (and doesn't allow you to actually stow the entire hood). It is a true shell, in that it really just provides protection from the elements (which it seems to do very well) with layering being required for any warmth. But it is also somewhat of a tapered fit, so if you are really going to be layering you may wish to consider sizing up. The pit zips are nice, and velcro wrists tabs are easy to use. There is no shortage of pockets. Given the lack of a snow skirt, I use this jacket as more of an all-purpose snow/rain shell than as a skiing/boarding jacket (which is in line with the description of it being a mountaineering jacket).
This shell is fantastic. It is lightweight and quiet. It fits well over the hips (snug) and a very good fit for slimmer folks. Velcro on the wrists is easy to adjust even with gloves on, as are the pocket zips (very accesible even with a pack on). Hood is a bit big for my head, but for those wearing helmets in would be great. Defintley waterproof and very breathable. Highly recommended jacket. Spendy, yes. Worth it, yes.
