Where are the gills? On a fast hike uphill in 40-degree weather, the latest iteration of Hardwear’s Epic fabric showed no signs of vapor trap. And when I picked up the pace, cracking the large pit zips and mesh-backed front pockets kept me cool. High-class touches include a laser-cut, stretchy soft-shell breast pocket (so car keys don’t jangle) and a flap that conveniently stows the hood out of the way. 14 oz; www.mountainhardwear.com
Bonus: Low-bulk watertight zippers replace cumbersome storm flaps on the pockets.
Bummer: Tightening the single-adjustment hood over a bare head pulled the brim down over my eyes.