Max
Jul 12, 2024
3/5
Nice jacket, but some big misses
Got hands on new Kelvin Hyperdown Jacket. Initial impressions compared against the predecessor Kelvin Down WS Hoody: 1) it is way lighter, definitely backpacking friendly. However I question the durability of the shell (27d), feels noticeably more delicate and tear prone than the Kelvin Down WS 2) longer length cut is awesome as is the solid colorway 3) feels warm, but not as lofty as the Down WS 4) Does NOT have Gore Windstopper, which is a big miss in my book. Part of the reason for the less sturdy face fabric is to achieve it's lighter weight I suppose, but if you're glassing exposed ridges in this in high winds, would probably wish it had it. 5) Hood is poorly constructed. No drawstring adjustment on the back of the hood to cinch in, just along the outside, which makes peripheral vision when head turning horrible. 6) internal dump pockets are nice improvement over the old zip pockets, which were not ideal for large glassing mitts. Overall, same oversized fit, but more proportional now with the longer cut. A decent jacket, but part of me wishes I hadn't parted with my old Kelvin Down WS as this just doesn't have the same bombproof feel that would hold up to hunting. Doesn't even say anywhere that the shell was even DWR treated... Nice to have a solid color option now for daily use in Minnesota winters too.
Height: 6'3'' - 6'5'' · Weight: 161 lbs - 190lbs
Fit: Runs big