Quick Take Review

From the winter than never was to instant summer and back again, that’s the weather in Northern California this year. Keeping me company during all the shifts in conditions was the very versatile Salomon XT Softshell Jacket.

The Salomon XT Softshell Jacket is built from two types of the company’s proprietary ClimaWIND fabric. A heavier weight windproof stretch covers the front, while lighter, more breathable panels line the back and underarms. In our tests, the windblocking performance of the Salomon XT was very good, and the back and underarm panels provided sufficient ventilation during cool morning routes.

Weight: 8.75 oz (men’s large),
Material: 100% polyester ClimaWIND fabric

Styling of the Salomon XT Softshell is great. Nice high collar, streamlined shape and excellent reflective accents give it a decidedly Euro look. Detailing also stands out. Behind the collar is a snap flap to keep things from whipping around when zipped down. Two exterior pockets can hold gloves and other items. An additional two interior mesh pockets provide extra carrying capacity. And a drawstring can pull the waist tight to keep out the elements.

Salomon designed the XT Softshell Jacket to fit close to the body and that it does. I normally wear a medium, but a large was a much better option. Depending on your fit preferences, you may want to do exactly what I did and go up one size.

Salomon has a real winner in the XT Softshell Jacket. The jacket’s light weight, windproofing and breathable performance – along with killer styling – make it a real standout. Recommended.

Rating:
[Rating:5/5]

Thanks for reading another outdoor gear review from GearGuide. And thanks to Salomon and Outside Media for providing product for this review. Written by Matt K.