A midwinter exodus from Colorado to Costa Rica held for us visions of swaying coconut palms, 85-degree Pacific waters, and cold cervezas. All of these were delivered in due time, but so was some rather inclement weather while we trekked into the Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve. An Atlantic storm pummeled us with 60-mph gusts and stinging rain, and at a cool 4,000-foot elevation, the drenching, chilly conditions called for protective outerwear. Fortunately I packed the Traveling Convertible Jacket, a coat-cum-vest by Ex Officio.
The jacket's water-resistant Nycott Twill finish shed moisture surprisingly effectively. The detachable hood kept me cocooned and dry, while the venting back panels obligingly dispersed body moisture. The inside waist cord cinches down for a custom fit, and a two-way front zipper makes sitting more comfortable. There's also a quilted shoulder yoke that adds durability to areas that would normally wear underneath gear such as a backpack. But not that you'd ever need one, since the jacket comes with fifteen generously sized pockets scattered hither and yon, almost eliminating the need for a daypack.
As its name implies, the Traveling Convertible Jacket has a split personality. Zip off the removable sleeves, and it transforms into a roomy vest that any photojournalist would be proud to own. And when it's time to strip off the whole affair, simply roll the jacket into a bundle and stuff it into its own fanny storage pack, which happens to make a nice en route airline travel pillow or lumbar support. Available in unisex sizes.
Price: $168
High mark: Having a multidimensional apparel item that morphs from protective outer layer and warm jacket to cool vest, all the while serving as the organizational equivalent of a backpack.
Low mark: The"Inspector Gadget" look isn't for everyone.
For more information: Call Ex Officio at (800) 644-7303 or visit www.exofficio.com.
Article © Ted Alan Stedman, 2000. Photo © Ex Officio, 2000.
from Away.com
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