Gear review: The Sierra Designs Toaster Jacket

The Gear:

The Toaster Jacket  is an insulated, waterproof and breathable shell from Sierra Designs. The jacket is seam taped and features a Tricot chin guard, underarm vents, and a helmet compatible / adjustable hood with visor. The Toaster is comprised of Hurricane 2L 100% Nylon Ripstop fabric and a 100% polyester taffeta lining. The jacket contains 100g Thermolite body insulation with 70g Thermolite Insulation in the sleeves.

The Test:

I've spent a lot of time in the Toaster Jacket over the last month. The weather in Portland this winter has been dreadfully wet (thanks La Niña!), with intermittent burst of icy cold Gorge winds. I wore the Toaster on several Forest Park hikes in the last couple weeks, but really all that was needed to put the jacket through its paces was to step outside the front door.

The Toaster Jacket performed incredibly well. It has thus far proven to be impervious to rain and wind, while the chin guard and adjustable hood help produce an excellent cocoon of warmth around the head and neck. I found that the breathabilty of the shell combined with the underarm vents made temperature regulation easy. Also, the lightweight Condor-style construction ensures ease of movement and prevented the jacket from riding up during activity.

A plus for me is the size of the jacket. I ordered an XL, and that is definitely what I got. I have long arms and a bit of a barrel chest, so I was delighted to find the fit wasn't restrictive. If you're on the fence about which size to order, keep in mind that the Toaster runs a bit large

The Bottom Line:

Taking all factors into account including price, I would give the Sierra Designs Toaster Jacket my highest personal recommendation. It is hands down my current insulated shell of choice.

Toaster Jacket features and specs:

    * Critical Seams Taped
    * 100g Thermolite Insulation in Body & 70g Thermolite Insulation in Sleeves
    * 100% Polyester Taffeta Lining
    * 1 Interior Zippered Pocket & 1 Interior Dump Pocket
    * Interior Tricot Chin Guard
    * Center Front Storm Flap
    * Exposed Waterproof Zippers
    * Condor Construction
    * Helmet Compatible, Fully Adjustable Hood With Visor
    * Adjustable Hem & Cuffs
    * Underarm Vents

* Center Back Length: 31 3/8"
* Weight: 29.5 oz

Hurricane 2L 100% Nylon Ripstop, 117 g/m2, 40D, Solvent Free Lamination, DWR