by: Dave D’Abate
Sierra Designs has introduced a very unique utilization of body mapping technology to create the Solar Fusion down jacket. Designed primarily as a ski jacket, the Solar Fusion down jacket features down-filled pockets placed in mapped positions on the interior of the jacket to eliminate cold spots.The Solar Fusion jacket unites the apex of materials and technology. Three-layer TropozoneTM offers complete weather protection while Core Comfort TechnologyTM provides pockets of 800-fill goose down placed strategically throughout. FusonicTM construction provides exceptional durability so no matter what the conditions are outside, you will be ready to conquer any challenge!
Featuring:
Solar Fusion Interior
The Solar Fusion jacket is one of a select few waterproof down jackets I have seen on the market. By itself, the jacket is not the warmest of jackets that would allow a simple base layer underneath on the colder windy days without full interior insulation but it makes one of, if not the best layering jacket I have used with an additional insulation mid layer. If I needed the extra warmth, I always grabbed the Sierra Designs Gnar down jacket first. Check out the review of the Gnar Jacket here.
The 3-layer outer hard shell in very durable and retained its water beading ability well after many uses in the field. The Solar Fusion jacket sheds snow extremely well, along with any other forms of precipitation proving it is a bomb-proof insulating shell for any outdoor professional. As is the nature with other hard shell fabrics, the Solar Fusion is also windproof. The fabric used is also very quiet and similar to that of a softshell in feel and noise level. No crinkling plastic bag sound here.
I took the Solar Fusion jacket skiing a few times around the backcountry slopes of the Wasatch Front here in Utah and it was outstanding. For a jacket designed for skiing at heart, I was surprised at the absence of a powder skirt. The down pockets are very well protected from external moisture but anything coming up from the bottom hem could cause some issues in deep powder but the drawcord did a satisfactory job in keeping the elements out. The addition of a Recco receiver would be a welcome addition as well for backcounty pursuits.
The jacket pockets were wonderfully large and accommodating for things like goggles and gloves when you head into the slope side lodge. There are plenty of pockets to store anything you might need while on the go. The hood provides great coverage and the drawcord system is great, being low-profile and secure. All seams are welded and/or taped, adding additional waterproofness to the jacket. The down pockets really do make a noticeable difference in eliminating potential cold spots.
Overall, the Sierra Designs Solar Fusion down jacket is a unique and stylish piece that works exceptionally well at everything you would expect. This is a great jacket for the professional and the recreationist alike and it served me well. If you are looking for an all-mountain jacket that excels in versatility and comfort, the Solar Fusion jacket should be at the top of your list.
Solar Fusion Jacket provided by Sierra Designs for review purposes.
Sierra Designs Solar Fusion Down Jacket – $325 – sierradesigns.com
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