JHMG Gear Review – The Mountain Hardwear Quasar Lite Jacket
July 27, 2015 | Posted in: JHMG
Mountain Hardwear Quasar Jacket
A fellow guide mentioned to me the other day that she left guiding in the Cascades to guide in the Tetons because the “Tetons are always sunny!” Well this just in……not this year. A southwestern storm track has landed in our jet stream and has guaranteed persistent afternoon and evening rain and grapple showers. If you do not have appropriate rain and wind gear in your pack, you can end up soaked to the bone. Ruining your trip and making you unable to achieve your goals. Quality rain gear is key to comfort and your success in adverse conditions at all elevations. Features to look for are: a breathable water-proof membrane, a fabric that is light weight and durable, and polyurethane zippers. Also look for a helmet compatible hood, pockets that are accessible when wearing a pack and/or harness and an effective core ventilation system.
The Quasar Lite Jacket by Mountain Hardwear has Dry.Q Elite Technology. Dry.Q Elite is set apart from older breathable water-proof technologies that have not changed in 25 years. It offers the most comfortable level of breath-ability by combining high moisture vapor transfer rates and air permeability at all body temperatures. Traditional breathable water-proof technologies require high levels of user exertion (high body heat) before breath-ability kicks in. Dry.Q Elite is “instant on” technology. It starts breathing the instant you put it on, regardless of temperature or level of exertion. For water-proof and wind-proof performance like you have always wanted.
JHMG Guide Jacob Schmitz
This jacket is the third generation Quasar model in use by Jackson Hole Mountain Guides. It is considered the “go-to piece” for outerwear in adverse condition by our guides. The Quasar Lite has proven to be a high performer with superior mobility, a three way helmet compatible hood adjustment and two polyurethane zippered chest pockets that are harness and pack compatible. The chest pockets also serve as an effective means of ventilation. The Quasar Lite is easy to pack and very light. Weighing in at a mere 12 ounces.
Like all Mountain Hardwear products, the craftsmanship is top notch. Our guides put this product to the test almost daily in July. The jacket holds up well to wear from harnesses, pack straps and coiling ropes. It’s great mobility and durability, makes the Quasar Lite the jacket our guides pull out when the situation demands a breathable, water-proof outer layer.
JHMG is proud to work with Mountain Hardwear on testing and gear development. The track record proves that the Quasar Lite is a solid match for the rugged terrain of the Tetons, Wind River Range and the Beartooth’s.
Written By JHMG Senior Guide Aimee Barnes
