Weight: 456g (m) 432g (w)

Best for 

Easy to moderate tramping and day hikes.

Overview

This durable tramping jacket is made from 50D polyester Hydrovent, a 3-layer membrane fabric with 20,000mm waterproofing and 10,000g/mᒾ breathability. It features a fully adjustable hood and hem and anatomic cuffs for weather protection. Dual pit zips provide further venting, and it has a water-resistant two-way main zip, along with two water-resistant zippered side pockets and a phone-sized, zippable inside pocket. 

Performance

The Tornado earns its name with great construction quality and tough fabric that give it a reassuring feel when the wind is gusting hard. It has a regular/casual fit, with reasonable space in the torso for layering, but away from moderate terrain I noticed that a lack of shoulder volume reduced arm mobility for steep tracks and scrambling. It provided good weather protection in moderate rain, with acceptable breathability (assisted by pit zips), but the hood would benefit from more volume, height and brim stiffness to improve face coverage and rain protection in the worst weather. This would also improve head/neck mobility and layering space. Additionally, the rain-proofing of the pit-zips could be enhanced with dual rain flaps (instead of single) or water-resistant zips. Overall, it’s a comfortable and relatively packable walking and tramping jacket with a versatility for both backcountry and casual use.

What we liked

Affordable, durable.

Limitations

Arm and shoulder mobility, hood volume and coverage, prolonged severe weather protection.

Why buy the Tornado? 

This durable and affordable jacket is a good option for occasional tramping on easy to moderate tracks, but it doesn’t offer the same level of mobility or absolute weather protection as higher-performance jackets.