ProView – Mountain Hardwear Men’s Mtn. Tech/2 Jacket

Living in the Pacific Northwest, a quiver of jackets is essential. As we all know, layering is ideal for warmth and versatility. With so many layering pieces on the market, it’s hard to imagine what a perfect system will be. Finding a single jacket that functions well in a variety of changing conditions, fits well, and looks sharp is a difficult task. The Mountain Hardwear Mtn Tech/2 Hoody proved to be a solid option for a moderately protective layer that breathes well, looks good, and adds enough warmth to be used as an all-around action layer. 

My initial impression of the Mtn Tech/2 hoody was that it was too thick and bulky for multi-day outings. I want my layering system to be dialed and work with a variety of conditions that I may encounter. I wasn’t too impressed with the weight/bulk, collar height (too short), or how the hand pockets stuck out when not zipped up. Additionally, I didn’t think that the hand pockets were placed high enough to comfortably accommodate a harness or backpack waist belt. 

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After wearing the Mtn Tech/2 Hoody over the past several weeks, I’ve found that this jacket has more versatility than a locking carabiner. Ok, maybe not, but it definitely fits the bill for a versatile softshell jacket that can be used in a myriad of situations. I used this hoody training for technical search and rescue missions, long walks in wintery conditions, and for a protective, stylish layer for around-town jaunts. 

Features/Fit

I’m a pocket guy. I love having big, useful pockets that I don’t have to fight with to enter or exit. The Mtn Tech/2 Hoody has almost all the pockets I could dream of. My favorite is the voluminous chest pocket. I could keep my phone, charger, extra mask or buff, some pocket snacks, and earbuds all safely tucked away without feeling weighed down or having the pocket bulging out. I was pleasantly surprised with the ability to utilize the pockets even when wearing a harness.

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I wear a men’s medium in almost all upper body layers and this hoody definitely fits true to size. It had enough room to fit a midlayer fleece or light puffy under it without feeling like a stuffed turkey. However, it is not so roomy when paired with a t-shirt or baselayer that I felt like I was wearing a sail. 

The GoreTex Infinium fabric used in this jacket proved to be clutch blocking the wind on blustery fall days in the mountains and was an excellent barrier to light showers. Although, I did wear it in a couple of downpours and the jacket did wet out as it is water-resistant and not fully waterproof. 

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Quality/Durability

I have worn this jacket almost daily over the last number of weeks and aside from some minor piling around the cuffs, the jacket still looks like I just took off the tags! The cuffs do worry me a little bit in terms of their durability. They do not have any adjustments and tend to hang down past my wrists. Over time, I imagine these will stretch out and be a bit sloppy. Overall, I’m very pleased with the durability of this jacket and its ability to be at home in a variety of conditions. 

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Room for Improvement

My one gripe with this jacket’s features would be the hood. The hood fit well over a cap or a helmet with the added structure of the headwear, but the lack of brim and adjustments made it sloppy to wear over a beanie or by itself. 

Final Word

I wasn’t sure I was going to like this jacket as much as I have. My initial impressions were largely disproven and this jacket has become a regular contender as my daily driver. When reaching for a single jacket to use in mild yet changing weather conditions, the Mountain Hardwear Mtn. Tech/2 Hoody is my go-to for getting out! 

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