Review: Outdoor Research Whirlwind Hoody

Redesigned for 2016, the Whirlwind Hoody has a slimmer silhouette that one tester called “the best, most perfect fit.” A blend of 87% recycled polyester and 13% spandex created a high-performing balance of durability and stretch, making it a super-versatile piece that can be worn for every climbing discipline. With the packing size of a large navel orange, you can take this everywhere, too. “When it’s a touch chillier in the morning, I throw this on for an extra bit of warmth,” one tester said, “and I find myself only realizing I still have it on when we’re back at the car.” Testers loved the half-zip design, which ventilated extremely well on muggier days sport climbing in Kalymnos, Greece, and during long slogs up to alpine areas of Montana. The Whirlwind is very wind-resistant—only when gusts pushed 30 mph did users see any air getting through, and a helmet-compatible hood kept heat in. With an extended torso and no hand-warmer pockets, it was meant to be worn under a harness, and longer sleeves had our monkey-armed testers loving this pullover.

Conclusion

If you like to put a piece on and forget about it, this extremely airy half-zip cuts wind, sheds light precipitation, and provides a smidge of warmth. If you’re constantly adjusting layers, the pullover design might prove annoying.

$115; 9.3 oz.; outdoorresearch.com

Further Reading
Review: Our Top 5 Ultralight Shells