TREKKING
Product 2018
Woman, Man
This jacket is available in men and women’s models. We tested both. Technically they are the same, the same base has been used: Outdry® membrane, recycled polyester, recycled fabrics and accessories: cord pull tags, eyelets, zip curser, labels, straps, zips and even the thread!
The jacket has no colorants (maybe just for the Outdry® logo?), and no PFCs.
The Columbia Outdry® EX Eco is a jacket that is designed for hiking. It does not ensure thermal insulation, you must wear a technical garment with it – mid-layer, polar fleece, etc.
This is not a top-of-the-range product. At its launch it was selling at 249,95 euros, now you can find it at 124,97 euros on the Columbia site, a bargain if you consider the positive points.
We know the jacket well as we have taken it everywhere with us around the world on many an adventure. We use it mainly for: its waterproofness. In some conditions we don’t use it due to the fact that it is fragile and risks ripping. This jacket in downpours is the best – almost compatible with a the classic fisherman’s yellow mack. To complete the total dryness we wear the same trousers.
For terrain where you are likely to encounter bushes, rocks or anything that could be caught on we prefer to use something else. In the Columbia range there are models that include Ripstop® that are tougher.
When we talk about breathability it’s always the same debate, each person is different and therefore the experience is different. Our personal experience is that the Columbia Outdry® EX Eco is more waterproof than breathable! But can we name any brand on the market that produces a genuine breathable waterproof jacket?
The Columbia Outdry® EX Eco is slightly stretchy and well-cut to be able to wear appropriate under layers without impingement. The zips are not waterproofed which is a shame, two protective flaps, the Velcro® cuffs could be a little stronger, and the waist cord seems a bit fragile.
That said the hood adjustment is efficient, the massive lateral pockets are very practical for storing everything including the kitchen sink!
The jacket rustles when you move, but the zips are easy to grab, even with gloves on. The neck is high enough to protect and doesn’t irritate the skin.
A white jacket – looks cool, but in practicality, looks less cool with mud quickly visible. The jacket is lightweight at 370g size L. It is quite compact when squished up in your pack.
The Columbia Outdry EX Eco is ecologically friendly, and is recommended for facing very wet conditions. Waterproof without doubt, but be careful of its fragility to rip if snagged on something. Useful for hiking, and in the mountains. Not expensive.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
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