Obermeyer Ketchikan Cocona Jacket

www.obermeyer.com
Most of us outdoor types spend ski season in our backpacking/climbing shells, putting serious wear and tear on gear that’s better reserved for uses that require light weight and compactness.  And if you’re a full-bore lift skier who’s not that interested in backcountry, you’re better served by this durable, fully featured, ski-specific shell.

The level of detailing in this unapologetically lift-oriented shell would make Batman’s tailor jealous. There’s an elastic powder cuff that snaps back out of the way when not needed. Knit sleeve wristlets are augmented by Velcro cuffs. Urethane water-resistant, mesh-backed zip vents run down the chest. A luxuriously high fleece-lined collar combines with a removable helmet-compatible hood. There’s an internal chest pocket with a conveniently angled microfiber iPhone/sunglass sleeve, and the urethane zip outer Napoleon pocket even features an integrated, removeable, elastic-leashed microfiber goggle polishing cloth. Recco avalanche system reflectors are embedded in the lining. Of course. Duh. It’s more like a wearable ski valet than a shell jacket.

The Ketchikan uses Cocona in the waterproof-breathable shell and brushed lining. This coconut husk-derived fabric provided excellent breathability and good sweat dispersal on warm, sunny days, and stayed dry during humid, single-digit storms. The free-hanging liner added serious insulation value, and the outer shell was so tough we could blast through dense fir and scratchy spruce groves without worrying about shredding the duds. The Ketchikan still looks new after weeks of beater skiing.

Our only caveat? At 38.7 ounces in a men’s large, it’s too bulky and heavy for backcountry uses. But if lifts, cats, and helos are your game, this is one tough, comfy, stylish ski suit for the harshest conditions and high-mileage uses. It’ll probably outlive you.
-Steve Howe