Monsoon Proof

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.


None

Lightweight rain shells can skimp on coverage. So a happy surprise was the OUTDOOR RESEARCH FANATIC JACKET ($145, outdoorresearch.com). With its spacious cut and stretchy Pertex Shield DS ripstop fabric — offering full mobility and protection — the Fanatic was breathable, super-light (9oz), and weatherproof. Its durable, waterproof fabric, elasticized cuffs, taped seams, and drawcord hem adjustment kept me dry in an epic downpour, and then the jacket self-stuffed into a side pocket for easy packing once the sun reemerged — nice! Available in men’s and women’s versions.

—Kristin Bjornsen

Film: How Matt Cornell Free Soloed One of America’s Classic Hard Mixed Routes

"The Nutcracker" explores the mental challenges of solo climbing and the tactics Cornell used to help him send the route.