Mountain Hardwear Kor Strata Hoody

A well-built, breathable insulated jacket that competes with more expensive models.

I was looking around for an insulated jacket that wasn't going to break the bank and not so techy-looking that I couldn't wear it as a day-to-day jacket. The MH Kor Strata Hoody definitely checked the boxes and it's become my go-to both on the trail and around town. Like most every day. Big bang for the buck with this one.

It uses PrimaLoft Gold Active and while it definitely cuts the chill just standing around I find it to be a little more functional when moving. Like a lot of insulated jackets, it's not going to cut the wind like a shell and will only hold up for a bit in the lightest of snow/rain before it wets out. But as it's not meant to do that it is what it is. The jacket is light (about 13 oz), stuffs easily in to its own pocket and is very breathable. A great choice for a midlayer in the cold.

I was a little concerned about the fit, but it turns out it was spot on. Arm length is perfect and the jacket isn't restricting in the least. And what I like is that it's a bit longer than some of the other popular choices (the pictures I saw showed it as have a shorter length), has a very discreet logo, is looser through the body without being boxy and, after about five months of almost daily wear, is showing signs of being really durable.

The hood is large but there's no wire rim or adjustability, the cuffs are a bit looser, but no big deal, and the hem drawcord is really well designed. That said, it does tend to dangle and has caught on a few branches. Never quite understood why there isn't some way to attach cords inside jackets to avoid that. I also like that the design itself is very basic and the colors are subdued.

Zippers slide smoothly, it has a deep chest pocket and zippered, uninsulated hand pockets.

So if you're looking for a really effective mid layer in the cold, an outer in mild temps and something you can throw on in the shoulder seasons as a great trail to town piece, this is worth a look. Retails for about $220, but if you buy it on sale, like I did, you'll be getting your money's worth.