THE GEAR:
The Hot Shot II (2) from Columbia Sportswear is a lightweight, breathable, waterproof shell. Part of Columbia's Titanium line, the shell is constructed from fully seam sealed Omni-Tech fabric. The jacket has two zippered external pockets and two large internal mesh pockets. There are drawstrings in the hood and along the bottom of the jacket, and the sleeve cuffs are velcro adjustable.
THE TEST:
I've had the opportunity to test the Hot Shot II on numerous occasions, in both wilderness and urban conditions. Silver Star Mountain in Washington proved to be a great spot to test the jacket's resistance to water and wind. Though listed as ultralight and weighing in at 11 oz, there are lighter shells on the market. That being said, the Hot Shot II is still plenty light, and feels more durable than some of the more ultralight jackets I've tried. A pet peeve I have with some lighter shells is staying dry, but feeling wet. There are no such issues with this garment. The shell is as breathable as any I've tried, without feeling clammy or like rain droplets are running down my arms. The Hot Shot II also manages to do a great job of stopping wind while remaining breathable; no small task.
One drawback is the lack of a visor or brim in the hood. It limits visibility and can make it tough to keep water out of your face when it's raining. An easy solution to this was a hat under the hood.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
With the Hot Shot II, Columbia seems to have found the delicate balance between lightweight, and reliable protection from the elements. Perhaps the best combination I've encountered, truth be told. The only chink in the armor for me is the lack of a visor in the hood. Even with that, the Hot Shot II is currently my favorite shell.
Hot Shot II features and specs:
- Fabric: Shell: 100% nylon ripstop. Lining: 100% nylon embossed taffeta, 57% recycled polyester, 43% polyester mesh
- Omni-Tech waterproof-breathable and fully seam sealed
- Ultra-light
- Attached, adjustable storm hood
- Reflective detail
- Pocket features Invizzip
MSRP: $160
Weight: 11 oz
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Colors: Intense Red, Voltage, Black, Burnt Orange, Windsor
For more of Adam's writing, reviews, and photography, visit AdamSawyer.com
Comments
The Titanium line lost its luster for me a few years ago, but if this shell is as weatherproof as you say, it would be worth looking into.
Very very good shell. Here we have a rainy weather and it keeps me completely dry when i walk 25min under the rain between home and university. It blocks wind and water very well, but in the shoulders seam the shell gets darker (it absorbs a little water therebut NOTHING passes to your body).
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