Weatherproofness
As with most of the jackets in this review, the Fast Wing W offered excellent wind protection. For its weight, it’s astounding how well we found it to perform in light rain as well. It has a few vulnerable spots along the front zipper and a couple seams back beneath the hood that wetted out more readily than other jackets in this review, but otherwise water beaded up well on the fabric. The hood design (see the ‘Function’ section) is exceptional.

Breathability
For such a minimalist shell, this jacket’s attention to ventilation is awesome. It sneaks in some hidden underarm vents that do a nice job letting out internal heat. Furthermore, it offers an innovative clasp along the front zipper, at the chest, which maximizes breathability and ventilation without letting the jacket flap all over the place—even while fully unzipped. Another one of those simple, thoughtful design touches that makes you wonder, “Why don’t all jackets have this?!”

Function
The Fast Wing W’s unique hood design is a double-layer brim sports a soft, stretchy “under layer” to keep your forehead covered and warm—and then a second, “outer layer” brim to act as a primary shield against any light rain or snow.

Fit/Comfort
This jacket has a really nice, athletic fit to it. You’ll feel fast just putting it on. As with many Salomon products, it runs slightly small, so if in doubt between sizes, consider sizing up. The sleeves run a tad short, but thanks to their partially elasticized cuffs, stay put, even in windy conditions. The nice, low back hem of the jacket offers comfortable coverage.

Packability
The fabric is paper thin—literally semi-translucent, and so light (2.55 ounces) you’ll be hard pressed to notice it stashed in the bottom of a pack. It also scrunches up easily into its own rear, zippered pocket—the most compact ball of fabric of any in this test.