First Impressions

Just about everybody knows the Obermeyer story. Back in the ‘40s, founder Klaus – then a ski instructor in Aspen – started making down jackets and other apparel to keep his clients warm. We’ve had a bunch of Obermeyer gear over the years. It’s certainly been fashionable and functional, although not terribly technical. Well, with some of the company’s recent introductions, Obermeyer now has some more technical items in the lineup. Case in point, the Ketchikan Jacket.

Features

The Ketchikan’s technical build starts with a Cocona shell fabric and DWR coating that boasts a 20,000mm rating. In other words, it’s designed to be super waterproof and able to stand up to extreme conditions. In our tests we had no penetration of water from the exterior into the jacket, even in vulnerable seams.

Cocona continues into the interior with a liner and insulation made from the stuff. Although we typically shy away from a lined jacket, the Ketchikan offers extra warmth without being stifling thanks to the 35,000g breathability rating of the Cocona. You can shed a mid-layer when wearing this top layer.

On the exterior, the Ketchikan bristles with pockets including two large lined handwarmers and two chest pockets (one includes a removable goggle wipe). On the interior, you’ll find a zippered mesh pocket on the left chest and a built-in holder for cell phones or iPods; and a large goggle pocket on the right.

Specs
Fabric: Cocona 100% polyester
Weight: 2 lbs 7 oz

Also included are stretch cuffs (no thumb holes unfortunately) with hook and loop closures, pit zips, an interior snow skirt and a removable, helmet-compatible hood.

Fit

Perfect. The Ketchikan in men’s size medium fit my frame perfectly. The jacket runs true to size, no need to size up or down.

Final Verdict

Great technical jacket from one of the pioneers in the space. It’s heavy at two pounds, seven ounces but can stand up to some seriously harsh weather. The Cocona keeps you dry and warm without overheating. If you’re in the market for a jacket for those stormier days, definitely check out the Obermeyer Ketchikan.

Thanks for reading another outdoor gear review from GearGuide. And thanks to Obermeyer and Turner PR for providing product for this review.