The weather has officially reached that Goldilocks moment where the sun is warm, but the ambient temperature is more in favour of sending. It’s often summery mid-day but cool in the shade, and while the weather is perhaps at its most enjoyable, it can be hard knowing what to wear or pack for your day out. The North Face Summit Series has released its Summit Series Off Width Jacket, designed for those days when the temperature seems to rise and dip at every turn.

The North Face Off Width Jacket is a lightweight, breathable, windproof, water-resistant workhorse. Climbing mobility is the primary strength of the jacket. Made of 89% nylon and 11% elastane, this combination of materials paired with underarm gussets and curved sleeve articulation means climbing movement is not restricted. You can be confident when you set off on the sharp end that you will not feel like your coat is preventing you from reaching deep into a flaring crack or behind your head on a 3D terrain. The cuffs are elastic and comfortable, so there is no need to worry they will restrict your blood flow and leave you feeling prematurely pumped.

The Off Width blocks wind effectively without sacrificing breathability thanks to TNF WindWall technology, making it a solid choice for a windy day on a multi-pitch or a brisk approach in the alpine. While other layers can make you feel like you’re overheating at times or shivering as the wind cuts through your layers, the Off Width will keep you warm, but not overheated.

The Off Width much more than just a windbreaker. It also uses FlashDryTM fabric, allowing the jacket to wick moisture by acting as a second skin on your body that pushes moisture to the surface of the fabric. This means that you can stay dry even when on the most heinous, sweat-inducing approach or pitch. It also has a non-PFC DWR finish, which makes it water-repellent – perfect for those days when the weather turns unpredictably, which is common this time of year.

If you need a little more warmth, say on the belay, or if winds pick up, there is a snug, adjustable hood that is climbing-helmet-compatible. And very conveniently, the hood also serves as the stowing pouch for the jacket. You can simply stuff the jacket into the hood, and if you’re tight on space, you can use a carabiner to clip the jacket to your pack via the webbing loop.

The jacket also features reverse-coil zippers, so you can safely stow small items in your pockets without the fear of losing them. The men’s version of the jacket is offered in blue and black, while the women’s is offered in pink and green. If you end up enjoying the Off Width jacket, be sure to check out the Off Width Pants.

The post A Look at The North Face Summit Series Off Width Jacket appeared first on Gripped Magazine.