Weather Protection
The Darbon got high marks for its rugged wind-taming textile, but its water-repellency was surprisingly sub-par. Exposed stitching on the shoulders and chest further compromised the thin fabric’s ability to defend against light rain by wicking moisture from the outside in, though we only noticed this effect during our “lab tests.”

Breathability
For its above-average wind-breaking abilities, this jacket breathes surprisingly well. We unzipped for periods of peak exertion on warmer days, but otherwise felt comfortable climbing, jogging and cycling whilst fully zipped.

Mobility/Comfort
With long sleeves and a slim, gathered cuff, the Darbon jacket offers a friendly fit to the ape-armed and the T-Rex-armed alike. Be advised: Salomon’s “Relax Fit” Large fit like a typical Medium; not to worry, though – the Darbon comes in sizes up to XXL.

Weight
There aren’t many ways Salomon could have made the Darbon lighter while maintaining its comfort and performance. 12 ounces is an acceptable, if unimpressive, weight for this type of jacket.

Attention to Detail
Great cuffs, a well-placed media pocket, and smooth zips all helped make this jacket consistently easy to wear. We only wished for a few more reflective bits and less external stitching; the Darbon was otherwise well-finished and solidly built.

Value
The Darbon Light’s performance exceeded our expectations for a thin softshell, and is offered at a competitive price. A great value for nearly any active mountain user.