OUTDOOR RESEARCH DEVIATOR HOODY REVIEW

The Outdoor Research Deviator Hoody is a new hybrid insulated wicking hoody out on the market in spring 2015. The hoody looks like something you've seen before, but trust me, it isn't. At first it looks like any old fleece, one with a special windproof front panel. But inside, the Polartec Alpha and Polartec Power Grid Technologies have a created a garmet that is like no other.

OR Women's Deviator Hoody
Sizes: XS-L
Colours: Alloy/Pewter, Flash/Apple, Ultraviolet (pictured below)
Weight: 9.7oz, 275g (Medium)
Price: $190 Cdn

Back right shoulder

I've had the pleasure of testing out the women's version for the past three months. In the months of April, May and June in Canada, temperatures can swing greatly from morning to afternoon and this is where this hoody shines. Although it feels like a light fleece hoody, this jacket breathes and wicks like no others thanks to the Polartec Alpha technology. Just when you think you have to de-layer, you don't! Warm when you need it, and cool when you don't this jacket is one I can wear all day (and do!). In my work environment I travel from cool and hot/humid outdoor temperatures, to rooms with and without air conditioning and no matter where I go, this jacket stays on.

Love the long length at the back

The fit of this jacket I would describe as a close fitting athletic cut. The women's version is low cut over the tailbone which I like. The fabric is very stretchy so no movement is inhibited. There are two generous sized hand pockets at the front and two comfortable thumb loops if your hands get cold. The zippered front chest pocket has room for my iphone and more. The hood will accomodate a climbing helmet if need be but can be worn without as well.

This jacket to me represents a new era of clothing versatility. It breathes better than my Outdoor Research Ferrosi softshell jacket, and is also warmer. It's extremely light and packable, and I am keen and eager to try this hoody out in the winter months doing aerobic activities as well as cooler months when rock climbing. I think this is a stellar piece for anyone who lives in environments with large temperatures swings or is participating in activities where moving and standing are both included. As a female, getting 'chilled' is common and I think this is the garmet I've been waiting for that will wick as well as it insulates. I often pair this hoody with the OR Echo Shortsleeve Tee in the same colour.

Pros: Lightweight, athletic cut, long length, wicking, warm, great pockets
Cons: None so far!

Kudos to Outdoor Research and Polartec for creating a fantastic hoody!