Mountain Hardwear Zonal - Men's Review

Likes
The Mountain HardWear Zonal jacket has some nice features that none of the other jackets in this review has. The most notable feature is what they call MicroClimate Zoning, which is the panels of Technostretch (similar to Power Stretch) that follow your body's hot spots to make this the most breathable insulated jacket. Often if you wear an insulated jacket as a layer, no matter how thin it is, if you start to sweat at all it becomes a little stifling. This jacket is the one exception. It could take the place of a fleece layer, being considerably warmer and almost as breathable since the side panels and a large swatch along the rear are essentially fleece.

This is also the only jacket in this review that has Velcro closure sleeve cuffs, which is a nice feature for tightening the sleeves around gloves. There is also an easily accessed net pocket on the inside of the jacket for storing items like gloves, goggles or sunglasses. If need be you can stuff the whole jacket in this mesh pocket, although not that easily.

Dislikes
With the exception of a few special features like the Velcro on the cuffs, the net pocket on the inside, and the Technostretch panels, this jacket is actually very basic. There is no soft material in the pockets and only a very tiny soft patch near your chin when you zip up the neck. Being on the simple side saves weight, which is a plus, but if you are looking for a plush and cozy jacket, this is not it. There is no chest stow pocket, which is not a big deal because usually this jacket is worn under a shell, which would have other pockets. This jacket stuffs into its interior mesh pocket, but like the Sherpa Vajra has no closure or clip loop so it's not as handy as the Nano Puff to bring along on a climb unless you also have a small pack with you.

Best Application
This is the perfect piece for aerobic activities in the cold, and is an ideal layer for alpine climbing. It is warm and insulating while the Technostretch panels allow it to breathe. This jacket works well for cross country skiing, hiking to a cold climb, or skinning up a peak.

Value
The Zonal jacket is on the expensive side, but it does have some features that all the other jackets lack, such as breathable fleece panels and Velcro cuffs. If these features are important to you, then this jacket is worth the price tag.