Outdoor Research Carbide Jacket – The Best Backcountry Jacket for Under $300
That is right! Quite a bold claim and I will back it up with my reasons why below!
Outdoor Research Carbide Jacket Review
Looking for a great backcountry ski or splitboarding jacket (and bib)? Then take a few moments to read this and watch the video. I think you will see why the Outdoor Research Carbide Jacket and Bib have reviewed such high praise from others as well.
Pertex Sheild 3L
I have used Pertex Sheild in plenty of backpacking jackets and pants, but not in winter clothing until the Carbide kit. Pertex makes some really great materials that a lot of companies use as the face fabric or membrane. Pertex Sheild is a 3L WPB membrane that performs well in our testing. It seems to be as good as any other 3L membrane we have used this season and has some other great properties that I will get into below.
Stretch
I love having stretch to my clothes. It keeps me from feeling restricted in movement. The Carbide jacket and bib have a great range of stretch. They do not get in the way of touring or skiing.
Quite
Being quite on the move is such a great thing. I like being able to enjoy the sounds of nature without hearing clothing crinkle. Ninja mode activate!
Carbide Jacket - Men's $298.95
Breathable
The Carbide kit is very breathable. As breathable as any other jacket I have used so far. That is a lot of jackets! I appreciate the sizeable pit zips, plus the 4 mesh-backed pockets. This allows for 6 ways to ventilate the jacket! Very helpful on warm tours.
Great Pockets
The pocket layout is great on the Carbide. There is one small pocket on the left forearm that is great for chapstick and small items. The two hand pockets are sizeable and situated out of the way of backpack hip belt straps. The two upper zippered pockets are great for a phone and action camera.
There is one media pocket on the inside but I was surprised that there is no drop pockets. I suppose it makes sense as the hand pockets are also used to vent the jacket. But man, that would have been perfect for skins!
Perfect match with the Carbide Bib
The jacket is a perfect match with the Carbide bib (separate review on that). I have been loving the set up from OR! Sizing feels accurate – XL on top and Large on the bottom. For reference I am 6’1″ 205lb 45″ chest, 33″ waist 32″ inseam.
Best jacket and bib kit for less than $600
For the price of one high-end jacket or bib, you get both from OR. Don’t let the price fool you, these are 100% legit backcountry ski and splitboard jacket and bibs! Two big thumbs up from us here at Engearment!
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