Outdoor Research Archangel Gore-tex Jacket

Specs

Weight: 19.4 ounces

Handy Hood: Helmet compatible and wire brimmed for stability

Pit Zips: You know it $699

Gearing up for outdoor adventure can be an exercise in compromise. A cozy fleece might not breathe great, for instance, while a durable hardshell ski jacket might not flex so well. The latest generation of Gore-tex Pro leaves such trade-offs behind.

“It offers the ability to find the jacket or pants that really work for your needs,” explains Gore product specialist Mark Mckinnie, who led the reinvention of Pro fabrics. “A garment that’s highly focused on a specific purpose, or something in between for all-around use.”

In development since 2016, Gore-tex Pro 3L encompasses not one upgraded material, but three, which the brand refers to as “most rugged,” “most breathable” and “stretch.” Apparel makers can transform any garment with just one of these materials, but that’s just the beginning. Like comic book characters with special superpowers — most notably stretch, which includes a thin layer of elastane for 20 percent give — they make the biggest impact when they join forces.

Exhibit A: Outdoor Research’s Archangel Gore-tex Jacket, one of the first garments to deploy multiple versions of the technology where they’re needed most. This climbing-specific shell combines the most breathable material with strategically placed stretch.

“The name comes from the angel wing-shaped stretch-pattern piece on the upper back and shoulders,” reveals OR outerwear project manager Charlie Berg. “Along with panels on the side body and underarm, it provides really good overhead reach. This fabric package gives the jacket a unique level of performance — it’s really rare.”

OR isn’t the only enthusiastic brand. Everyone from Arc’teryx to Norrøna to Patagonia is working the material into the streetwear and mountain gear of the future. If the Archangel is any indication, that future looks bright, breathable and stretchy.