Outdoor Research Hemispheres II Jacket Review

The Outdoor Research Hemispheres II Jacket might just be the ultimate solution for active backcountry snow sports. This 3L GORE-TEX shell, combined with strategic stretch panels on the back and wrist cuffs creates an ultra-light, ultra-mobile jacket. Definitely a top-notch contender if you are looking for high performance, quality, and durability.

Stretchable Material

When your ski lines require ice climbing, scrambles, or rappels, this is the jacket to reach for. The back panel provides a surprising amount of stretch, making for uninhibited movement, unlike any jacket I’ve worn before—all while maintaining complete waterproofing, and enhancing breathability. The boxier fit also allows for enough layering underneath, without feeling tight and still looking stylish.

There is no powder skirt in the Hemisphere II, so if you’re skiing deep powder, it’s best to combine with bib pants. I’ve skied this jacket in waist deep snow, paired with bibs, and never noticed any snow creeping in. The hood fits and cinches around your helmet comfortably for the stormy days, without restricting head movements or reducing visibility.

This Outdoor Research Jacket is minimal, yet well thought-out, pockets provide the perfect balance of weight and features. There are 3 generously sized exterior pockets, and 2 interior pockets— one being a cell-phone sized zip-up, and one being a large open mesh pocket to stuff gloves or skins. The overall minimalist style of this jacket, paired with the ultralight GORE-TEX fabric, makes it easy to pack down in your backpack, taking up very little space.

Venting

The vents on this jacket aren’t the usual pit-zip style, which does take a bit of getting used to. Instead of zippers directly over the pits, these zip either direction, running from the bottom of the armpit all the way down to the hem of the jacket, paired with a button at the bottom to keep it closed if you want, or open the jacket up fully on the sides. This tends to dump body heat faster, but unfortunately with a pack on it’s hard to access the zipper pulls.

Outdoor Research Hemispheres II Jacket Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Stretchable material for uninhibited movement
• Well-thought-out pockets for practical use
• Effective venting system for body heat

Cons:

• No powder skirt for deep powder skiing
• Venting style may be challenging with a backpack

Overall Impression

Overall, the Outdoor Research Hemispheres II Jacket ($629.99) is a high quality choice for backcountry adventures. It packs away easily, wears comfortably, and moves freely—all while keeping you protected from the elements.

Related Jackets

1. Dakine Gearhart GORE-TEX 3L Jacket
2. Helly Hansen Infinity Jacket
3. Patagonia Untracked Jacket