The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded Jacket is a durable, versatile, and affordable classic softshell jacket.
Quick Guide
Category: Softshell Water-resistant Outdoor Jacket
Length: Hip
Pockets: 3
Weight: Men's: 15 oz / Women's: 13 oz
Fabric: Nylon & Spandex
Pros: Packable, breathable, durable, and affordable.
Cons: Only weather resistant.
Best Suited For: Day Hiking, Climbing, Running, Mountain Biking, Skiing.
Final Verdict: A classic softshell jacket rightly touted in the outdoor community as a must-have durable and mobile layer.
Part of any successful outdoor clothing layering system is the perfect hiking jacket.
Having the right jacket for a day spent outside is one of the sure-fire ways to have a comfortable day on the trail. Depending on the climate, season, and activity, you will have specific jacket needs.
In these short hiking jacket reviews, we cover top-rated hiking jackets of varying styles.
Don’t worry, we don’t pick favorites either. We leave that decision up to you.
We’ll give you our honest review of each jacket, including the things we love and what they could have done better. So let's take a look at the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded Jacket.
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded Jacket Review
The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded Jacket is a classic softshell jacket that has become popular in the climbing community as a must-have durable and mobile layer.
The Ferrosi Hooded Jacket is the updated version of the Ferrosi Hoody. The main difference is the construction of the pockets and the cuffs now have thumb holes.
The rise in popularity of this OR jacket partially comes from the affordability of the jacket. So, if you’re a budget-minded outdoors-person, then this jacket is worth the look.
Although the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded Jacket isn’t the best in terms of actual weather protection, it works quite well during high-performance physical activities like climbing, trail running, cross country skiing, and mountain biking.
Some days on the trail, you need some extra protection without sacrificing breathability, and this is where the Ferrosi Hooded Jacket delivers.
It is not a waterproof jacket by any means, but it is somewhat water-resistant. You will want a hard shell or rain jacket to protect this jacket from heavy rain and snow, but it will outperform almost any other jacket on our list in breathability and mobility.
If you recreate in dry climates, like the desert, the Ferrosi provides adequate protection. It includes thumb loops for added security and a bit more warmth when running.
Since this could be a mid-layer jacket, it fits nicely over a long sleeve or light fleece without feeling too snug or decreasing mobility.
Not sure the difference between a softshell and hardshell jacket? Check out our guide to Choosing the Right Hiking Jacket.
What We Like about the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded Jacket
There's a lot to like about this jacket, including:
Breathability
On days when you need a jacket but are also working hard outside, breathability is a must. The Ferrosi Hooded Jacket ensures enough airflow through the jacket to prevent excessive sweating while still providing warmth.
Movement
If you need a jacket that won’t restrict your movement, this should be at the top of your list. Using mostly nylon and spandex materials, you get a snug fit without compromising any mobility.
Lightweight Packability
At around 13 ounces, you can easily pack this jacket anywhere you go for a bit more weather protection and warmth. It packs down small and won’t weigh down any adventure.
What we don’t Like about the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded Jacket
However, there are some areas for improvement:
Not Waterproof
The main downfall of this jacket is that it is not very weatherproof. It should be considered a mid-layer jacket and a good option for dry climates. It is not waterproof or windproof.
Lacks Versatility
Although it is a durable jacket, it lacks versatility. The primary use is limited to high-intensity activities in mild weather conditions. The pockets are also in an inconvenient location to access when wearing a climbing harness or the hip belt of a backpack.
Key Specifications
- Fully Adjustable Hood
- YKK® DWR-Treated Zippers
- Zip Chest Pocket
- Zip Hand Pockets
- Left-Hand Pocket Doubles as Stuff Sack
- Carabiner Loop
- Key Clip
- Single-Separating Front Zipper
- Elastic Drawcord Hem
- Elastic Cuffs
- Thumb Loops
What the Manufacturer Says
Windy, chilly, rugged adventures call for Ferrosi. Long-time award winner and best seller, Ferrosi is the soft shell collection infused with movement-mirroring stretch and durable, abrasion-resistant fabric for whatever you encounter outside.
Climbers love it for brushes with rough rock, hikers choose it for its weather resistant protection, and everyone agrees that the newly redesigned fit looks great and makes layering a cinch. - Outdoor Research Website
Final Thoughts
The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded Jacket is a classic softshell jacket that has become popular in the outdoor community as an affordable, durable and mobile layer.
Although the Ferrosi Hooded Jacket isn’t the best in terms of actual weather protection, it is well suited to high-performance physical activities like climbing, trail running, cross country skiing, and mountain biking.
Check out more hiking jacket reviews.
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