Outdoor Research Skyward Jacket

Hood and Collar

The Skyward has a helmet-compatible hood that is attached midway up the outside of the collar (as opposed to being integrated into the collar pattern). Although I very rarely ski with my hood up, the Skyward’s hood has worked well over the Salomon MTN Charge helmet that I’ve been using this season. I can pull the hood over my helmet without unzipping (due to the stretch in the fabric), and don’t feel as though my peripheral vision is compromised while wearing it.

Although Outdoor Research says that the Skyward has a “Stand-Up Collar,” I’ve found myself wishing for increased coverage around my chin/face. This is likely due to the suppleness of the fabric, as its lack of rigidity causes the collar to slouch and fold. This is one area where I prefer stiffer fabrics like Gore Pro, but am happy to trade this for the overall comfort upgrade in the rest of the jacket as a result of the softer fabric.

Durability

Thirteen days is certainly not long enough to attest to the lifetime durability of a jacket, but I have come away impressed with the Skyward’s resilience. I was wary of this due to the high degree of stretch in the fabric, but after my repeated run-ins with branches and rocks, the jacket has no tears or holes.

Luke Koppa reviews the Outdoor Research Skyward jacket for Blister Gear Review.
Luke Koppa in the Outdoor Research Skyward Jacket. (photo by Chris Fuller)

Taking this into account, and factoring in the Skyward’s bountiful pocket layout, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the jacket to someone looking for a 50/50 jacket, or someone who does a lot of hiking inbounds. One thing I noticed, however, was that the DWR on the Skyward seemed to cease working quicker than that on the Alpha FL and Sabre. Although I never had any water penetrate the membrane, people in wetter climates should take note of the issues with the DWR.

Who’s It For?

Outdoor Research markets the Skyward as a backcountry touring shell, and I think it performs pretty well in this arena. This is mostly due to the fabrics decent breathability and even better venting options, as they help the jacket stand out on the skin track. However, the Skyward moves away from the no-frills, ultralight touring realm with its wealth of pockets and durable, comfortable fabric. As a result, I could recommend the jacket to both backcountry skiers and snowboarders who aren’t concerned too much with weight, or those who want increased breathability and comfort in their inbounds shell.

Bottom Line

The Outdoor Research Skyward jacket is a well-featured shell with an emphasis on breathability. The air-permeable AscentShell membrane breathes fairly well, and the ample ventilation options let the jacket perform better than most waterproof breathable shells. The stretchy fabric also makes the jacket very comfortable compared to traditional hardshells, and was surprisingly durable during my review.

Overall, the Skyward jacket is a breathable, comfortable, and well-equipped shell that should work well for a wide range of skiers and snowboarders.

And Blister reviewer David Steele will be weighing in soon with his review of the Skyward.

3 comments on “Outdoor Research Skyward Jacket”

      • Bummer. I think I’m the only guy left in the world that wants a trim fitting, well-ventilated, technical shell without a hood.

        I’m an unapologetic resort skier. No need or desire for a hood, just a really good collar.

        Maybe you guys have a few ideas.

        Thanks again!

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