THE CRUISER
Good for Backcountry
The Burnside is neither the lightest nor the most technical jacket here, but that’s not this crossover shell’s point. The two-ply waterproof-breathable polyester shell repels precipitation well enough for a full day on the slopes or a long hike or walk in the rain. The cut is perfect—athletic but not too trim. The fleece patches around the chin and back of the neck are nice touches, but we did wish that the hood had more adjustability. And the magnetic closures at the wrists are a cool idea but are poorly executed (the jacket’s material bunches up awkwardly). Even so, none of the jackets here walks the line between performance and ready-for-town style as well as the Burnside. 1.5 lbs;