KUHL

Impakt Jacket - Men's

Quality, Fashion-Leaning Softshell

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Size Bought:

XL

After about 17 years, my Mountain Hardwear Offwidth (XL) jacket finally failed. I was disappointed at the availability of similar (non-hooded, non-fleece, zippered chest and hand pockets) replacements. I was familiar with Kuhl based on a pair of their hiking pants and was confident with them generally. I am 6'2" 185 with wide shoulders and gangly arms. Mountain Hardwear has always had a good cut for me and most brands tend to be on the too-short or too-boxy side. I have only small notes for an overall fantastic jacket. First, the non-adjustable button cuffs and the lack of drawstring hems is a bit of a loss. While I did not use them often, they were occasionally very helpful. Second, the sleeves are adequate, but even going XL I could use a tad more sleeve length (it is occasionally, but rarely, noticeable). Last, the zipper for the chest pocket is on the smaller side- you get standard phone in it but it requires just a little bit of noticeable articulating- I may also come to appreciate the smaller size/opening in time, it is also not a big deal. Otherwise, the jacket is top shelf material and workmanship. I love the attention to detail with the cut of the jacket panels, the (feelingly) durable zipper, the fleece-lined collar, the chin zipper protector, the rugged yet muted styling, thick stitching, neutral lining, and the (de-facto) inside pockets. It leans on the style over function side of things, but for wearing everywhere and all the time (office, out, and outdoor), it's a tradeoff I'm actually valuing. The XL has the right amount of room for me with layering- I went with a Large for their Impakt Vest and that was the right size for just considering chest/length.