If God is in the details, the Zorro is heaven-sent. The hood, which adjusts behind the head and below the chin, cinches out of view with or without a helmet—making it the best we tested. The gaping chest pockets easily accept backcountry skins or salami, and the solid pocket backs prevent contents from mucking up your base layers. Wide storm flaps over the zippers and pit zips provide reassuring security in the worst weather. 14 oz; www.cloudveil.com
Bonus: All this for less weight than a post-hike pint.
Bummer: Pockets open high and wide, almost under the arms, which makes for a pleasantly spare look but awkward stowage.