Sitka Gear Ambient Jacket Review
Introduction
The Sitka Gear Ambient Jacket is a high-performance, technical outdoor jacket designed for the modern adventurer. As a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, I was excited to put this jacket through its paces and see how it performed in various conditions. In this review, I’ll share my experience with the Sitka Gear Ambient Jacket, highlighting its key features, pros, and cons.
Design and Features
The Ambient Jacket is a versatile, 2-layer jacket designed for cold-weather activities such as hiking, backpacking, and skiing. The main features of this jacket include:
- Water-resistant and breathable membrane: The jacket features a Gore-Tex Paclite membrane, which provides excellent waterproof and breathable performance.
- Insulation: The jacket is filled with 700-fill power down insulation, providing warmth and loft.
- Adjustable cuffs and hem: The cuffs and hem are adjustable, allowing for customizable fit and protection from wind and cold.
- Two-way zipper: The jacket features a two-way zipper, allowing for easy access and ventilation.
- Pockets: The jacket has several pockets, including a chest pocket, left and right side pockets, and a utility pocket.
Performance in Various Conditions
I put the Ambient Jacket through a series of tests to evaluate its performance in different conditions. Here are the results:
- Temperature: The jacket performed well in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 0°C (-4°F to 32°F).
- Wind: The jacket kept me warm in windy conditions, with minimal wind resistance.
- Moisture: The jacket performed well in wet conditions, with minimal water penetration.
- Weight: The jacket is relatively lightweight, weighing in at 450g (15.9 oz).
Pros
Here are the key pros of the Sitka Gear Ambient Jacket:
- Water-resistance: The Gore-Tex Paclite membrane provides excellent waterproof and breathable performance.
- Insulation: The 700-fill power down insulation provides warmth and loft.
- Adjustable fit: The adjustable cuffs and hem ensure a customizable fit.
- Breathability: The jacket’s breathable membrane allows for moisture transfer and ventilation.
- Durability: The jacket’s construction and materials suggest a high level of durability.
Cons
Here are the key cons of the Sitka Gear Ambient Jacket:
- Price: The Ambient Jacket is a premium product, with a price tag to match.
- Limited mobility: The jacket’s two-way zipper can be restrictive in windy conditions.
- Not suitable for extreme cold: While the jacket performed well in cold temperatures, it may not be suitable for extreme cold conditions.
- Not suitable for wet conditions: The jacket’s waterproof membrane may not be sufficient in wet conditions.
Conclusion
The Sitka Gear Ambient Jacket is a high-performance, technical outdoor jacket designed for the modern adventurer. Its water-resistant and breathable membrane, insulation, adjustable fit, and breathability make it an excellent choice for cold-weather activities. While it may not be suitable for extreme cold conditions or wet conditions, it is an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and durable jacket for everyday use.
Recommendation
Based on my experience with the Ambient Jacket, I would recommend it to:
- Outdoor enthusiasts: Those who engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, backpacking, and skiing will appreciate the jacket’s performance and features.
- Cold-weather enthusiasts: Those who need a reliable and durable jacket for cold-weather activities will appreciate the jacket’s insulation and waterproof membrane.
- Those who value durability: Those who prioritize durability and construction will appreciate the jacket’s high-quality materials and construction.
Rating
I would give the Sitka Gear Ambient Jacket a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. The jacket’s excellent performance, features, and durability make it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts. However, its limited mobility and not suitable for extreme cold conditions may deter some users.
