Brigette Takeuchi Testing the Obermeyer Highlands Shell While Backcountry Skiing | Photo Connor Burkesmith Mountain Weekly News
Tis’ the season of dawn patrols and the endless pursuit for powder stashes – winter has finally arrived in the Wasatch and we could not be more ready. Taking advantage of a fresh layer of cold pow, we decided to embark on an early season tour in Salt Lake’s Little Cottonwood Canyon. This was a perfect opportunity to test out the Obermeyer’s Highlands Shell. Here are my takeaways:
Fit and Feel
While not specifically designed with touring in mind, the Highlands Shell proved a perfect outer layer and kept me warm, and more importantly dry, on a brisk morning tour. The shell’s front chest venting allowed me to regulate my temperature throughout the day.
The shell is constructed with Obermeyer’s patented HydroBlock® Elite 20k/20k waterproof/breathable fabric and Toray® Dermizax™ 4-way stretch fabric. As a result I stayed dry and felt unrestricted in my movements.
I wore a size 10 (women’s regular) and measure in at about 5 ‘4″. I felt that this size was ideal for me – I was able to wear the shell comfortably with and without layers.
Design
I am a huge fan of pockets, and the Highlands Shell excels in this department. The pockets are conveniently placed at chest level (featuring a lens cloth) and fit anything from liners to phones. Evident care was put into pocket placement. The zippers are sleek and easy to open with gloved hands.
The sleeves can be easily tucked into or over gloves and offer a personalized fit with adjustable cuffs. Because I often spend time in the backcountry, I appreciate being able to tighten my cuffs according to my handwear.
Features
The features on this jacket are comprehensive and provide great utility for both in-bounds and backcountry sessions. The jacket sports a 3-way adjustable, helmet-compatible hood. I was able to secure the hood on the downhill and uphill without losing it or obscuring my view.
One feature I look for in any shell is the powder skirt. Nothing cuts a ski day short faster than wet underlayers. The Highlands Shell is equipped with a removable water-resistant powder skirt with a grippy elastic bottom that ensures no snow will make it up the jacket. Perfect for deep days!
Who is this for?
This jacket is perfect for resort junkies and backcountry enthusiasts alike. The Highlands Shell is breathable and protects against the elements. It makes for an ideal outer layer and offers adjustable features that allow the user to customize the fit to his/her preferences.
Obermeyer Highlands Shell Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Keeps warm and dry during tours
- Convenient and well-placed pockets
- Comprehensive adjustable features for customization
Cons:
- Not specifically designed for touring
- Relatively high price point at $549
- No specific cons mentioned in the content
Overall Impression
Ringing in at $549, Obermeyer’s Highlands Shell Jacket is offered in both regular and petite models and comes in a wide array of sizes and colors. The shell is a worthwhile purchase for anyone looking for a durable outer layer that is functionable in a variety of conditions.
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