Patagonia Houdini vs Houdini Air vs Mountain Hardwear Kor Preshell vs Black Diamond Alpine Start

Patagonia Houdini vs Houdini Air vs Mountain Hardwear Kor Preshell vs Black Diamond Alpine Start

You asked for it, so here it is! The comparison of several 4oz windbreaker style jackets from Patagonia, Mountain Hardwear, and Black Diamond. Each one of these is a great light jacket and we have reviews on each separately. But it is nice to see them side by side to see how they look, fit, and function. I hope this helps you decide which one is best for you!

Patagonia Houdini

Looking for a windshirt that won’t break the bank, stuffs super small, and can stand the test of time? The Patagonia Houdini might just be the perfect jacket for your needs. The Houdini comes in at under $100 and under four ounces – winner/winner, chicken dinner. Read on to see what else makes the Patagonia Houdini worth your hard-earned money.

The Houdini is light, wind-resistant, packs up small, and is cost-effective.  10CFM of breathability and great DWR.

Houdini Full-Zip Jacket – Men’s

 

 

You can read the review on the Patagonia Houdini in more detail here or watch the video:

Patagonia Houdini Air

I have used and loved the Patagonia Houdini for years.  It has been in my kit for almost all my adventures. Heck, it packs up super small and weighs just a few ounces.  There is very little reason to not bring it! When I saw the new Houdini Air at Outdoor Retailer, I was very intrigued.  Now, with a full month of using it almost non-stop, I can say – this is the best active wind shell I have used!

Patagonia Men’s Houdini® Air Jacket

 

It is more breathable (20CFM) has stretch and breathes better. Although it is not as wind resistant.

Full review here and video:

 

 

Mountain Hardwear Kor Preshell

Besides being ultralight, the Kor still features two real hand pockets and a great fit.  This is not a stripped-down UL jacket.  The Pertex Quantum Air is 20D and breathes like a lung. You will feel right at home wearing this jacket in urban and backcountry environments. Like I mentioned earlier, I used this jacket while training at the gym as well as on several winter camping and splitboarding tours.

Kor Preshell Hooded Jacket – Men’s regularly $129.95 on sale $71.47

 

It dumps heat, has great hand pockets, and looks good on the trail or city. Here is the full review and videos!

Kor Preshell non-hooded

Black Diamond Alpine Start

The Black Diamond Alpine Start is even more breathable (40CFM!) and stretchy as well as has the best DWR treatment.  It does not have hand pockets and looks a bit more technical.  But, it outperforms in outdoor categories.

Men’s Alpine Start Hoody | Black Diamond® Climbing Gear

Patagonia Houdini vs Houdini Air vs Mountain Hardwear Kor Preshell vs Black Diamond Alpine Start – which one is best for you?  Let us know!  We have had some good questions on the YouTube video and helped several people find the ideal jacket for their needs.  We are happy to do the same for you!