Outdoor Research Skytour AscentShell Review

Using a proprietary membrane instead of Gore-Tex, the Skytour AscentShell Jacket trades some weather resistance for increased breathability. Our testers the protection of a completely waterproof hardshell, but it's hard to ignore the superior breathability here.

Performance Comparison

Warmth

The Skytour AscentShell is a very breathable hardshell, meaning it provides very little warmth to the user. The thin shell allows air to move through the fabric, which means that warm air can escape very easily. This jacket needs to be paired with insulating mid-layers (like a top-rated insulated jacket) if any warmth is expected. The warmth of this jacket is comparable to that of a heavy rain jacket. This lack of warmth is a desirable trait for those who ski hard and raise their heart rate.

Weather Resistance

A proprietary waterproof/breathable membrane called “AscentShell” is built into this three-layer hardshell, and in our experience, this material is almost as waterproof as Gore-Tex. This jacket is fully seam-sealed, and the main front zipper and hand pocket zippers are waterproof. The chest pocket and armpit zippers aren't waterproof, but they feature storm flaps, which helps. The hood offers decent coverage, but it doesn't fully wrap around the helmet, and it's hard to get a tight seal around the face and chin.

Comfort and Fit

Most hardshell jackets are crinkly and stiff, but the Skytour AscentShell does not have this problem. The shell material is soft and slightly stretchy, and the brushed interior fabric lining is gentle on the skin. There is a fleece-lined chin guard, but it's not big enough to provide comfort. The fit is generally straight-cut and could be better tailored to the body's contours. But overall, the fit is comfortable and ergonomic.

Ventilation

The Skytour AscentShell uses the most breathable membrane we've ever tested in a waterproof jacket. Somehow, this hardshell allows plenty of air movement through the fabric without letting water in. It is as breathable as many softshell jackets that we've tested. The armpit vents are long and easy to manipulate with gloved hands. This jacket is a good choice for skiers who spend a lot of time hiking to find fresh powder or skiing bumps. We also like it for backcountry skiing in good weather. Still, in general, we don't find ourselves touring while wearing our hardshell jacket unless it is dumping out, in which case we prefer a Gore-Tex shell.

Style

The Skytour AscentShell has an understated and generic style and has nothing to write home about. The cut is a little boxy in the torso, allowing plenty of movement, but it isn't great for looks. We prefer a more tapered and slim look. We also don't love the two-toned color panels or the color options, which seem too “primary” compared to the earthy tones of other jackets on the market. But style is subjective, so you be the judge.

Features

The Skytour AscentShell comes with plenty of pockets for ease of use on the ski hill. Two hand pockets and two external chest pockets provide storage galore. A left sleeve pass pocket is useful for getting through RFID turnstiles without stalling. One mesh stash pocket and one zippered chest pocket get the job done on the inside. We like this jacket's allowance of versatile features while also keeping the bulk and weight down.

Should You Buy the Skytour AscentShell?

The Outdoor Research Skytour AscentShell Jacket is a waterproof and highly breathable hardshell packed with features and comfort, all for an attractive price. While not cheap, it is much more affordable than most Gore-Tex shell options and all other three-layer shell jackets. It isn't as protective as the more expensive options, but it is much more breathable, making it a great choice for users in dryer climates who know how to layer underneath and do not want an insulated jacket.

What Other Ski Jackets Should You Consider?

No one buying a hardshell jacket should expect standalone warmth. If you are looking for a single-layer jacket, without all of the fuss of figuring out a layering system, the award-winning Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft is perfect for most skiers, and the Arc'teryx Macai is best for those getting out in the coldest climates. For skiers battling the worst and wettest weather, the Arc'teryx Sabre AR Jacket or Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro Shell offer superior protection.