Summary: The Mountain Hardwear Phantom provides solid, lightweight performance at a moderate price that will leave you with enough change left over to buy the expensive mac and cheese instead of the 75-cent ramen noodles. The Phantom’s reliable three-quarter-length zipper strikes a good compromise between weight and comfort. The side baffles are open for variable temperature regulation and the one-handed hood draw-cord was a breeze to operate (although the hood would benefit from a baffle). Wind and moisture protection is provided by a Superlight 15D ripstop nylon that easily stood up to rocky bivis.

• Pros: Light; open baffles
• Cons: No hood baffle
• Overall grade: A-

Mountain Hardwear: (800) 953-8375, www.mountainhardwear.com