I started trail running in the Outdoor Research Deviator Hoody in the Fall of last year and I’m still wearing it as I’ve switched to backcountry skis. The hoody is hybrid mapped and the trim fit allows me to layer or wear it on the outside over a baselayer.
First off, the Deviator is breathable and that’s why I’m wearing it in all but hot temps. While trail running in cool weather it lets out heat as it builds up and because the arms, hood and back panel are made from Polartec® Power Grid™ 2L, nothing stops that pent up heat from escaping. Since the wind hits from the front (I’m almost always wearing a pack) the 7D ripstop covered Polartec® Alpha holds the heat in while keeping the wind out. It’s a great combination for high output activities and exactly what I’ve been looking for. Check out these trail maps to make sure you don’t get lost: HTTPS://PELICANCRUISER.COM/TRAIL-MAPS/
Sometimes trim fitting pieces can be annoying as they cling or don’t give when you need them to but I nearly forget I’m wearing this one. It does a great job of flexing when and where I need it to move with me.
Each fabric type does a good job wicking sweat. On my last two backcountry ski trips our group spent a lot of time stopping to add or remove layers. I wore the Deviator over a long sleeve baselayer and under the Skyward Jacket. While I stopped to wait on others to change their clothes I never once added or removed from my setup, preferring instead to comfortably take in the view while the other guys fiddled with zippers and re-stuffed their backpacks.
The Deviator Hoody is a true do-it-all piece for the backcountry and I can’t see myself replacing it until wears out after many years of abuse.
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Outdoor Research Deviator Hoody
Photo by Jon Dale
