MEC Apex Jacket

This jacket has great features: long cut, comes over my butt even though I'm 6'2", lots of drawstrings to seal out wind + rain, 2 big outside pockets with zippers that close upwards, so stuff doesn't fall out if you only do them up part way.

At first I didn't like the pockets on the front 'cause they were a little hard to get into and the zipper is at an ackward angle, but then I went hiking and understood why they are cut like that: Easy access with your pack on! Great!

The hood certainly keeps the rain out, the visor is good, but it doesn't turn with your head as well as claimed unless done up really tight.

The shell is good, but the DWR coating seemed to wear out pretty fast, but washing with nikwax helps bring it back most of the way. Make sure you wash it a lot, and ironing helps too!

This jacket is really wind and waterproof, and breathes fairly well, depending on what you are wearing underneath.

Pit zips work really well, rain doesn't get in and heat + moisture (and stink!) get out easily.

Overall great jacket, shell resists tears very well. Dries fast. Too bad it's being phased out, but can find some being cleared out for great prices (up to $100 off!)

Get 'em while they last, newer MEC 2 Ply doesn't seem as good!

CB