SOFT BUT BURLY
You know you have a winner when testers argue over who gets to wear it. Such was the squabbling over the Langtang, which, despite being cut from Gore-Tex Soft Shell fabric, performs more like a storm shell than a softie. It’s completely waterproof, of course, and survived full-speed, Mad River Glen鈥搒tyle runs through tight trees that would have beat up lesser jackets. 1.6 lbs (L); milletusa.com
Bonus: The minimalist, stowable hood was just what we wanted under a helmet when it got wet and chilly.
Bummer: It’s not easy to find a shop where you can try on this import (find it online at brmsstore.com).