Gear

Arcteryx Accelero Pullover Jacket - New Gear

May 16, 2008

Looking for a lightweight pullover to take the chill off those early-morning trail runs or trail rides? Yeah, you could bust out your 3-layer GoreTex shell and call it good, but that's kind of like showing up at a BMX track with a Honda CR250 motocross bike. Yeah, you could do it, but it's not quite the right tool for the job. There's no doubt that Arc'teryx is one of the premiere clothing and gear companies for skiers, climbers, mountaineers and backpackers. Their gear is bomber and they aren't afraid to challenge the status quo in design and materials. Take the Arc'teryx Sidewinder Jacket, for example, the ergonomic zipper location is not only easier to zip up/down, it keeps that pesky hard plastic or metal zipper away from the the soft, fleshy material on my chin that most people call skin. Well, in cold weather, the chin can take a beating with standard zippers. The Sidewinder eliminates that. Along those same lines is the super-flexible Arc'teryx Accelero Jacket. It's super simple and lightweight, but it also has a few key features making it much better than the Grateful Dead hoodie you like so much. I know... it's hard to ditch the hoodie, but trust me, it will be worth it. Here are a few highlights: Dry Web Fabric: Breathable stretch polyester double-weave with bamboo charcoal next to the skin Laminated side pocket with headphone port Non-locking 3/4 length zipper Reflective logo and piping Stretch-woven cuffs MSRP: $98.95 Quick Review of the Arc'teryx Accelero Jacket I've been able to use this jacket on a few cool-weather trail runs and I really like it. It's comfortable against the skin and breathes extremely well. Because it breathes so well, it's not 100% windproof, but will block out the wind in all but gale-force winds. The fabric has just the right amount of stretch with nylon cuffs instead of elastic to reduce the bulk and add to the overall comfort. I think I could have gone with a size medium, but the large still fits nicely without being too baggy. A couple of reflective trim pieces will keep you noticed in the early-morning hours. A great, lightweight and packable shell that can be stuffed just about anywhere and pulled out in a pinch. The Accelero Jacket is perfect for trail running or mountain biking where breathability is key. I've also used it backcountry skiing--it's great for the uphill slog when there's just a tad bit of a nip in the air. The only negative I've noticed thus far is that every time I pull it off, the zipper tends to grab my nose. I've since learned how to take it off without ripping the end of my schnoz. Good Accelero Extremely soft to the skin Dual-fabric sleeve cuffs are comfy Material blocks wind while remaining super-breathable Non-locking zipper makes for quick ventilation adjustments Bad Accelero I got it too large... Should have gone with Medium (5'11" - 175 lbs) Small key pocket has minimal value Buy Now: Search for the Arc'teryx Accelero Jacket

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