Soft Touch
“It just feels right,” said one tester. That pretty much sums up the Welder, and after we added up all the comments, it was clear that it was the most breathable, stretchy, supple, and comfortable insulated soft shell we saw this year. The Welder delivers enough water and wind resistance to keep you from taking refuge in the lodge once it starts howling, and there’s just enough synthetic insulation to beat back the chill on average days. The hood fits up to medium-size helmets, the zippers are silky and effortless, and the slim, stretchy cut is built for athletic skiing. Bells and whistles are kept to a minimum; there’s just one small interior pocket and no powder skirt.
VERSATILITY: 3
VALUE: 4
PERFORMANCE: 4.5