Whether it’s making s’mores around a campfire in the Spring or working up a sweat snowshoeing in December, Mountain Hardwear’s Ghost Shadow Insulated Hoody packs massive warmth in a lightweight layer.
Lightweight layer, Heavy Insulation
This jacket has been a favorite for its warmth and ease of packing. Great for snowshoeing, XC skiing, winter trail running, as a mid-layer for backcountry skiing… the list goes on. Perfect weight in the Spring and Fall while hanging around the campfire, it provides shelter from the brisk evening breeze. The Ghost Shadow transitions into Winter as a base layer under a heavy shell or on its own for heavy activity.
It is important to note that this jacket’s strength is also its weakness: breathability. While ideal for working up a sweat in the winter, the Ghost Shadow’s thin, breathable fabric also creates airflow that loses heat. We recommend packing a heavier jacket when facing high winds and deep cold, saving the Ghost Shadow for less severe weather or active miles.
Pros
- Compresses and zips into its right-hand pocket for compact storage
- Large internal pocket and the two outside zip pockets, big enough to fit a large smartphone
- Unique, rich colors (note: pictured here is “Icelandic,” which was available during the Winter 2020 collection)
- Able to act as a mid-layer or an outer-layer, depending on weather
- Made from recycled materials
- Flattering shape and women’s fit
Cons
- Thin fabric may easily tear against rugged terrain
- The same reason this jacket is easily packable also makes it less resistant to the cold; thin insulation works well for winter activity, but may leave the user chilled in a deep-winter freeze.
Technical specs:
For our fellow gear nerds, we have included the relevant specs from Mountain Hardwear’s product details. Enjoy…
| Use/Activity : Backpacking, climbing, hiking, commuting in town Insulation : Synthetic (Primaloft Silver Hi-Loft Ultra I-2040 80g) Fabric : 100% post-industrial recycled 10D x 10D face fabric and lining; 100% Recycled Nylon Weight : 7.8 oz. / 220.5g |
What are similar jackets?
- Mountain Hardwear – Ghost Whisper Down Jacket: down filling (rather than synthetic) makes this jacket less water-resistant but warmer.
- Arcteryx – Atom LT: also a synthetic jacket, the Atom LT allows similar warmth but with a distinct stretchy fabric rather than the classic quilted pattern seen on Mountain Hardwear’s Ghost Shadow.
Our final impression:
Out in the woods or around town, this jacket has been everywhere. Sleek enough to wear in the city, insulated plenty for deep-winter activities – this is a highly sought-after layer that will surely sell out again! Currently restocked, check out Mountain Hardwear’s site for more info.
📸: All photos used in this post are property of Equip to Explore
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