Waterproof, Flexibile, Breathable and Lightweight. These are the four most important features to look for when selecting a waterproof shell. In my opinion at least. And the Interstellar Jacket from Outdoor Research delivers in all four of these categories. I’ve been an Alpine skier for all but 2 years of my life. Those first couple of years I was busy learning to eat, crawl, throw up and walk. Over the many years following, I’ve gone through a ski jacket or two. And each year, I’m excited to see what the top tier companies can come up with. Seattle based Outdoor Research has been a go-to company of mine because they often lead the way in new product development. The Interstellar Jacket is no exception.
Interstellar Jacket Video Review
Utilizing Outdoor Research’s own proprietary waterproof membrane referred to as AscentShell, the Interstellar provides unparalleled waterproofness, stretch and moisture management. With a 20D mechanical stretch ripstop face and 100% polyester 12D backer, this lightweight shell tips the scales at a mere 11.6 ounces. By using a waterproof main zipper and pocket zippers, the design team was able to further streamline this garment by eliminating the need for cumbersome storm flaps. Hand pockets are thoughtfully located above the harness. Additionally, a helmet compatible hood keeps the users noggin dry when it decides to snow or rain mid-activity. Plus, the entire jacket packs into its own pocket for easy storage.
Although the Interstellar Jacket was primarily designed for alpine ascents and mountaineering, it is by no means limited to those activities. In fact, I had a perfect opportunity to test the waterproofness, moisture management and stretch over a three day period. The Pepsi Fall Invitational Golf Tournament. This is a three-day golf tournament that I participate in annually. And this year, the October weather was sketchy at best and downright formidable for golfing. 45 degrees, 15-20 MPH winds and rainy for 3 days straight. Features like dynamic reach underarm panels were key. Allowing me to swing freely without feeling like I was in restrictive rain-gear. Finally, the waterproof zippers, adjustable hood and cuffs kept the relentless rain where it should be. Outside.
Fabric Performance:
- Waterproof
- Windproof
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Air Permeable
- Fully Seam-Taped
- Laminated Construction
- Movement-Mirroring Stretch
Design Features:
- Fully Adjustable Helmet Compatible Hood
- Wire-Brimmed Halo-Hood
- YKK® AquaGuard® Zippers
- YKK® AquaGuard® Vislon Center Front Zipper
- Internal Front Stormlap
- Zip Chest Pocket
- Zip Hand Pockets
- Stuffs into Left Hand Pocket
- Carabiner Loop
- Key Clip
Functional Details:
- Dynamic Reach™ Underarm Panels
- Single-Separating Front Zipper
- Hook/Loop Cuff Closures
- Elastic Drawcord Hem
- Elastic Cuffs
MSRP: $299Sale $194.35
The Interstellar Jacket from Outdoor Research is the company’s pinnacle waterproof shell. Able to perform on the same level as competing top-tier Gore-Tex variants I’ve used in the past. And due to its extreme light weight (11.6oz.) and packability, it’s my top choice when inclement weather calls for a shell. Whether I’m skiing, kayaking, golfing or just out for an afternoon hike, the Interstellar Jacket from Outdoor Research provides an otherworldly level of performance.
