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Outdoor Research Nimbus Sombrero
Long Term Report - 29 Sep 2006
OR Nimbus Sombrero
This report is part three of a three part series. Please see the Initial Report and Field Report for more details.
BIOGRAPHY
Name: Jeff Jackson
Age: 30
Gender: Male
Height: 5’ 10” (178 cm)
Weight: 185 lb (84 kg)
Website: http://www.tothewoods.net/
Email: jwj32542 at yahoo dot com
Location: Monterey, CA, USA
Backpacking Background:
I have been backpacking for about eleven
years. I started as a three-season overnight-only hiker in the North Georgia
mountains, and have since hiked in California, Colorado, Georgia, New Jersey,
New Mexico, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Virginia. Weather has generally
been mild (50-85 F/10-30 C), although I sometimes hike in winter (~20 F/-7 C) as
well. My current pack weight is roughly 30 lb (14 kg). I generally wear only
very light insulation and a wind shell when hiking, even in sub-freezing
temperatures.
PRODUCT INFO
Manufacturer: Outdoor Research (http://www.orgear.com/)
Product: Nimbus Sombrero (2006)
Listed Weight: Avg weight 3.4 oz (96 g)
Measured Weight (Size L): 3.1 oz (90 g), scale accurate to 1/8 oz (2 g)
Color: Java (dark grey-brown color)
MSRP: $38 US
Product Description:
A waterproof breathable hat with a wide brim, adjustable headband and removable chin strap. See the Initial Report for full details.
Testing Update
I really don't have much to add from my Field Report - this hat is awesome! During the Long Term Test phase, I have worn it backpacking, dayhiking and car camping in sunny, drizzly and rainy conditions, and in temperatures ranging from 40-90 F (4-32 C). Winds have ranged from zero to about 20 mph (32 km/h), and terrain included forested mountains and beaches.
A few remaining items from my test plan:
- Does the fabric show any wear over time, such as abrasion, punctures or fraying? Does it remain waterproof for the duration of the test without needing periodic treatment? Will the foam-stiffened brim continue to regain its shape if I don't pack it carefully?
- The hat doesn't show any wear and has remained waterproof. However, during heavy rains I noticed some dark spots on the rear brim where the fabric appeared to be wetting out. No water leaked through the brim, though.
- How well does the brim protect my face from windblown rain?
- Unfortunately, I did not experience heavy winds with rain during the test period so I cannot answer this question. I never had rain in my face while wearing the Nimbus, though.
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| The Nimbus is easy to store outside my pack... |
...and it provides great protection on sunny days. |
Overall Assessment
I am converted. I will continue using this hat after the test period, and that is the best compliment I can offer. Throughout the entire test period, I honestly did not find anything to dislike about this hat.
I would like to thank Outdoor Research and BackpackGearTest.org for the opportunity to
test this excellent piece of gear.
Jeff Jackson
Read more reviews of Outdoor Research gear
Read more gear reviews by Jeff Jackson
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