Equinox Jacket Needs More Ventilation

Part one of two

Product: Pearl iZUMi Clima Guard Trans Globe Equinox Jacket

Description: A microfiber, full-zip water-resistant, breathable jacket with removable hood

Pro: This jacket, made of a microfiber (thin fibers tightly woven), sheds water remarkably well even though the fabric has no coating or surface finish. Because it has no chemical coating or finish, the jacket can be machine-washed and dried, a major plus. Bright colors visible in dim, stormy conditions. Breathes well. Windproof. Supple fabric and roomy cut creates a comfortable top layer that is not restrictive, and relatively quiet in wind. Pockets are zip-closed

Con: Velcro cuffs would be better around the wrist than the elastic used in this jacket. Velcro would allow the cuffs to be tightly snugged if needed, or opened comfortably wide when desired to improve airflow. There isn’t enough ventilation for my taste. Underarm zips would be an improvement. Although the jacket does breathe well, perspiration build-up is still high and could be minimized. In my opinion, you can never have enough ventilation!

Comments: A jacket for high aerobic use, such as running, crosscountry skiing or mountain biking needs to breathe (disperse the sweat you are generating) like crazy, yet not be so porous that rain pours in I always look for jackets that are bright as well, like the Trans Globe, since chances are you will be wearing them on dark and stormy days. When selecting a shell jacket be sure it offers enough room to accommodate layers underneath. A roomy cut provides better ventilation possibilities. I prefer a jacket with a thin hood that can be stowed into a zip-closed collar or removed completely.

Suggested retail: $140

Company: Dash America Inc., 2300 Central Ave., Suite G, Boulder, CO 80301, (303) 938-1700.

Next week: Pearl iZUMi’s multisport top and tights and their Windstopper base-layer vest.