Columbia Mens Ultrachange Jacket
Ultrachange describes this jacket well because it is in reality two jackets: an insulating layer and a waterproof layer. Each of these layers deserve to be called jackets and I have found myself packing and happily using them combined and independently. This jacket combo provides comfort and protection in a wide range of cold and wet conditions and packs away easily when the weather clears. The big trip I took this combo on was a spring visit into the slot canyons of Southern Utah. Naturally, we weren’t burdened by any rain (that may have caused a different set of bigger problems – flash flood) but temperatures dropped to near freezing each night. The waterproofness was tested on shorter backpacking, skiing and climbing trips here in Colorado.
Working from the inside out, the insulation layer is filled with Columbia’s proprietary synthetic insulation and includes the signature reflective heat dots as part of their thermal reflective Omni-Heat technology. This actually works surprisingly well as I can attest to throwing this jacket on when I was already chilled and I instantly felt what little heat my body was generating reflected back to me. The cut sits close to the body, does not poof out like many puffy jackets and does not restrict movement. The rip-stop nylon exterior makes it tolerant of pushing past some light brush or stone. I never had any snag problems with the zipper and at 12.8oz it packed better than most synthetic fill jackets of similar size. Since this jacket is best suited for temperatures down to the low 40’s (upper 30’s with a few extra layers) Fahrenheit, you run the risk of getting wet and that is the beauty of the synthetic insulation. This jacket can handle getting a little wet and will still keep you warm. A good option for the indecisive shoulder seasons.
As I discovered on the slot canyons trip, the waterproof layer is light and very packable. Since we almost always take a rain layer with us, it’s nice for that layer not to be a heavy burdon in the event we don’t need it. This is true for the waterproof shell of the Ultrachange. But, on other trips where I did need it, the Columbia technologies Omni-Dry and Omni-WickEVAP worked great. The jacket did well to keep the rain out and to push moisture I generated out as well. Part of the great breathability comes from the minimalist approach. This is great for when you’re working hard and generating a good amount of heat from your body. Once things go idle you will want to be sure to put the insulation layer back on as a good stiff cold wind will seep through. Particularly noticeable while sitting on the chairlift in Brecken-wind.
The Ultrachange is great for resort skiing and some light backcountry. The lack of a powder skirt is a bit of a bummer for those really getting in the steep and deep but it’s also part of what keeps this jacket so light. Also, if you’re a sweaty beast when climbing to earn your turns, the lack of pit-zips might be a bit of a disappointment as well.
For climbing and mountaineering activities, the hood is truly helment compatible and the shell like the insulation layer allows for a great range of motion and flexibility.
At $450, it would be pricy for just one jacket, but really it’s two and it provides options to work with a wide range of weather and temperature conditions. You’ll use at least part of or all of this jacket system all year. Recommended.
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Columbia Sportswear – $450
