HARD CHARGER
Textile wonks say the Velocity’s Schoeller NanoSphere fabric—which runs across the jacket’s shoulders and back—is inspired by the especially water-repellent leaf of the white lotus. How closely it resembles its natural cousin we can’t say, but the Velocity does shed water better than most soft shells. And because the rest of the jacket is cut from more breathable stuff, we stayed comfy with minimal layer changes while ice climbing and snowshoeing in the North Cascades. 1.2 lbs (L); mountainhardwear.com
Bonus: A cinchable collar helps seal out the cold.
Bummer: A hood would add versatility.