The Mountain Hardwear Cloud Bank Gore-Tex Insulated Jacket delivers exceptional performance in demanding winter conditions. This comprehensive review details its strengths, focusing on its Gore-Tex waterproof and windproof protection, crucial for staying dry and warm during deep powder days. The strategically placed, body-mapped synthetic insulation provides impressive warmth without bulk, allowing for comfortable movement even in the coldest temperatures. A detailed analysis of its features, including numerous pockets, adjustable cuffs and hood, and a powder skirt, highlights its practicality and suitability for various layering preferences.This in-depth assessment covers fit, comfort, and overall functionality, based on real-world experience in challenging Colorado weather. The reviewer explores the jacket's effectiveness across a range of temperatures and activities, providing insights into its versatility and suitability for both skiers and snowboarders. From its superior weather protection to its convenient storage solutions, this review offers a balanced perspective on the Cloud Bank jacket's performance and value, considering its price point in relation to its quality and features.
Read more: 5 Best Insulated Ski Jackets to Conquer the Slopes
Waterproof and Windproof Protection
The Mountain Hardwear Cloud Bank Gore-Tex Insulated Jacket boasts Gore-Tex technology, guaranteeing dryness and wind protection. This is crucial for staying comfortable during those challenging deep powder days. The Gore-Tex membrane effectively blocks wind and prevents moisture from penetrating, keeping you warm and dry.
Even on a relatively cold and windy day in Colorado, as experienced during the review, the jacket provided excellent protection from the elements. This speaks volumes about its ability to perform in truly harsh conditions.
Body-Mapped Insulation for Optimal Warmth
The jacket's synthetic insulation isn't just strategically placed; it's body-mapped. This means varying thicknesses of insulation are used in different areas of the jacket. This design element helps to minimize bulk while maximizing warmth where it's needed most.
With 80 grams of insulation in the body and 60 grams in the sleeves and hood, the jacket offers impressive warmth without feeling overly bulky. The reviewer, who claims to get cold easily, found the jacket exceptionally warm even on the coldest days, while still being able to move freely.
Versatile Layering System and Ample Pockets
The jacket's effectiveness is enhanced by its compatibility with layering. The reviewer recommends wearing a base layer and a down layer underneath for optimal warmth in extremely cold conditions. Alternatively, those who tend to run warmer can layer less.
Abundant pockets provide convenient storage. The jacket features two hand pockets with storm flaps, two mid-thigh zippered pockets, chest pockets (one external and one internal), and a large internal mesh pocket for items like gloves or a water bottle. The reviewer found this storage to be extremely useful.
Additional Features and Design Elements
The Cloud Bank jacket incorporates a non-removable powder skirt, which can be buttoned down for added snow protection. However, the reviewer, a bib wearer, doesn't find this feature essential. Other notable features include a drawstring hem for adjusting the fit and a sleeve pass pocket for convenient lift ticket access.
The adjustable cuffs with generous sizing allow for comfortable layering over mittens, preventing snow from entering the sleeves. The large hood comfortably fits over a helmet, providing comprehensive protection in stormy conditions. The reviewer highlighted how effectively this feature prevented snow ingress.
Sizing and Overall Impression
The reviewer, who is 5'10" and 160 pounds, wears a size large, finding it a comfortable, slightly oversized fit. They note that a medium might offer a snugger fit, but the large provides ample room for layering.
The jacket's generous length covers the reviewer's backside. Overall, the Mountain Hardwear Cloud Bank Gore-Tex Insulated Jacket receives high praise for its excellent warmth, waterproofness, wind resistance, and practical design features. The reviewer considers it an ideal jacket for a variety of conditions and body types.
Conclusion: Is it Worth it?
The Mountain Hardwear Cloud Bank Gore-Tex Insulated Jacket is a high-quality, versatile ski jacket that excels in cold, wet, and windy conditions. Its combination of Gore-Tex protection, body-mapped insulation, and abundant pockets makes it a compelling choice for skiers and snowboarders.
While the price point is likely higher than some competitors, the superior quality, features, and performance justify the cost for those who prioritize durability and reliable protection from the elements. The jacket's ability to handle a wide range of temperatures and layering preferences makes it a strong contender in the market. Overall, the Cloud Bank jacket receives a strong recommendation.