Obermeyer Capitol Shell Review

November 9, 2015
GEAR INSTITUTE RATINGS
88
Durability
8
Weatherproofness
9
Breathability
6
Bells & Whistles
7
Function
8

The Good

  • Stretchy
  • Breathable
  • Warm

The Bad

  • A bit heavy
  • Stiff fabric
THE VERDICT

We like stretchy shells—they are quieter and less restrictive. The Capitol shell has a generous cut, making it a good choice for husky guys. Though a bit stiff off the rack, the Capitol Shell does get more supple with use.

FULL REVIEW

Durability
The Capitol Shell is cut from a beefy, fleece-lined stretch fabric made by Cocona that stood up well to all sorts of abuse, and should last a few seasons.

Weatherproofness
With a long hem line, a large hood that fits most any helmet, seam sealed constructiona and waterproof zippers, the Capitol Shell checks almost all the boxes for a ski shell. It lacks a powder skirt which is often usefull to riders who wipe out a lot, ride a snowboard and/or just really like powder skirts. Alternatively, the jacket does have two different cinch points at the hem and higher up at the waist to help keep snow out.

Breathability
The Cocona fabric never got clammy in even the sweatiest of conditions, though its hard to say if that was the fabric breathing or the fleece layer absorbing moisture. Either way, it’s a dry jacket considering the thickness of the fabric. The large pit zips help as well. 

Bells and Whistles
The Capitol Shell checks in with six pockets, though it lacks an internal drop pocket that we proze for easy stashing of gloves while fiddling with gear or retriving snacks on the lifts. It does have an imbedded RECCO reflector, which we like both for avalanche safety, and for helping find lost people in dense woods (happens frequently in British Columbia).

Function
Especially for riding inbounds, we like stretchy shells. They are less crinkly and less constrictive. The Capitol Shell is cut pretty loose, which makes it a bit heavier, but an especially good choice for beefier guys. We liked the large catch-all chest pockets and the four points of adjustment for the hood, useful if riding without a helmet.

 


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