When it comes to outerwear, there are an abundance of options available to skiers. Technical features, such as waterproofing and breathability, are important to consider but riders also need to consider the fit and intended type of skiing. Outerwear is the first line of defense from the elements, staying warm and dry greatly improves the entire skiing experience.The Outdoor Research Hemispheres Collection is a bomber kit that’s ready for skiing numerous types of terrain in any conditions.

Brought to you by Outdoor Research

OVERVIEW

The Outdoor Research Hemispheres jacket and bib combination is made with a combination of trusted three layer GORE-TEX C-Knit fabric and an innovative new GORE-TEX two layer material with Stretch Technology, which is strategically placed in areas that allow freedom of movement and less risk of tearing.  These stretchy panels are on both the jacket and bibs on the hood, underarms, upper back, and groin area. It works, allowing further mobility while maintaining the renowned waterproofing and breathability of GORE-TEX. The additional freedom of movement makes it great for backcountry touring and its bomber construction means it will last for many seasons worth of resort days. Designed and tested in collaboration with Outdoor Research athletes and ambassadors, the Hemispheres kit has already exceeded my expectations through the first month and a half of wear and I’m excited to wear it as my go-to outerwear for the remainder of the season and beyond.

 

KEY TECHNICAL FEATURES

• GORE-TEX WITH STRETCH TECHNOLOGY

  • My favorite feature about the jacket. This new 2L material contains 19% elastaine for extra stretch and a Gore-Tex membrane. It provides insane mobility paired with top of the line waterproofing and breathability, perfect for mornings on the chairlifts and afternoons in the backcountry.

• INTEGRATED BEACON POCKET

  • The bibs feature a pocket with integrated beacon clips. However, in testing, we found it also works great as a clip for car keys on resort days.

• ZIPPERED VENTS

  • Both the jacket and bibs feature long vents that open to keep your body cool when it heats up. These vents further enhance breathability for human-powered pursuits.

• SHOVE-IT POCKETS

  • The jacket features dual-internal pockets to store larger items quickly and easily. These are great for warming up fogged goggles and skins, stashing a sandwich for lunch, and storing gloves when not in use.

HOW DOES IT PERFORM?

BOTTOM LINE, THE OUTDOOR RESEARCH HEMISPHERES COLLECTION IS TOP NOTCH. IT MANAGED TO KEEP ME WARM AND DRY ON A CLASSIC MT BAKER POW DAY WITH 32 DEGREE TEMPERATURES AND INCH-PER-HOUR SNOW. IT ALSO WORKS PERFECTLY AS A BREATHABLE SHELL FOR TOURING ON A WARM SUNNY DAY, OR LAYERED WHEN IT GETS COLD. IT IS A BOMBER KIT THAT CAN HANDLE ALL WEATHER CONDITIONS. IF YOU NEED ONE KIT TO DO IT ALL, THIS IS THE ONE.