Editors' Choice 2019: Outdoor Research Hybrid Refuge Hooded Jacket Review

While technically an alpine piece, the Refuge had such mad style with its muted colors and trim fit that you can wear it anywhere. This is among the most climbing-friendly hybrid shells I’ve worn, striking a perfect balance between light weight (18oz size L), warmth (thanks to OR’s new VerticalX insulation), water resistance (great in a surprise wet blizzard), and stretchiness—you can really climb, whether wearing the Refuge as a top layer at the crag or midlayer on an alpine route. It’s also built with the mobile climber in mind, with three zip pockets, two internal stash pockets, elastic cuffs (with amazing pull loops) and hood, and a drawstring hem. 

$199, outdoorresearch.com

See more of our top climbing gear picks in the Gear Guide 2019: Editors’ Choice Awards, and listen to our latest podcast for an interview with Black Diamond’s climbing category director Kolin Powick.