Golite Ether Wind Jacket : For Men and Women

I've always wanted a wind shirt, but didn't think I lived in the right climate to really need one. I also didn't like the idea of a pull-over outer layer.

Then I discovered Golite's Ether Wind Jacket. Wow. Wow. Wow. I understand how it got its name-it's virtually weightless. I can wad it up and stuff it in my tiny day pack or tie it around my waist when I'm out on a fast walk and realize I've misjudged the weather. Best of all, when I'm wearing it, I get excellent wind protection without having to wear a thicker, heavier jacket.

We're having an unseasonably warm and sunny fall here in Seattle, which I love. I'm also loving those sunny days that look warm but are actually chilly because the cold over air is trying to move in and force fall upon us. On these days, I go for power walks wearing a merino tee and my Ether Wind Jacket. It's a perfect combo because the shirt regulates my body temperature, and the jacket keeps the wind out.

Thanks to the 12% anti-static polyester fabric content, there's no cling with this jacket. It also does a good job against drizzle.

Every time I wear it I'm surprised and delighted by how well it works. Because it doesn't get much colder than the 40s most winter days in Seattle, I'll be able to wear this jacket this winter with a long sleeve merino and a fleece vest.

The jacket also has a hood, which I usually don't like on a jacket, but I have to admit that I use it all the time because in this "in between" weather I never think to wear a hat. The hood is easy to adjust with drawstring toggles on each side. I like the simple elasticized sleeve hems, as well as the raglan-style sleeves, which give me more range of motion and a better fit than set-in sleeves.

I tested the women's version of the Ether Wind Jacket, and love the color options. I have the cool light blue jacket, which is like a robin's egg blue with some teal mixed in. The gray fabric panels are a nice contrast. It's also available in black, orange, and purple (the de rigueur color for fall), sizes XS-XL. The men's Ether Wind Jacket comes in five colors, sizes S-XL.

At first I was disappointed by the lack of pockets--there's just a tiny zippered pocket along the left side seem--but now I'm happy about it. All I need is space for an I.D. and a key, and that's all I get. More pockets would just add weight because I'd inevitably find things to put in them.

Eco Creds: Made out of 88% ripstop recycled polyester.

Bottom LIne: One of my fall favorites that I'll be wearing most months of the year. A super versatile jacket that I like to have on hand in case the weather kicks up.--E.D. (Oct. 09)

BUY ONLINE : $80 at , some colors/sizes for $55.96

Manufacturer's Site: www.golite.com

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