|
|
 |
Guest - Not logged in | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Reviews > Clothing > Jackets and Vests > Mishmi Takin Qaras Softshell > Test Report by Brett HaydinMISHMI TAKIN QARAS SOFTSHELL JACKETTESTER INFORMATION
I started backpacking in Wisconsin as a youth, being involved in Boy Scouts programs. As a young adult, I worked at a summer camp leading backpacking, canoeing and mountain biking trips. I now generally take short weekend or day trips. I plan several longer trips each year in different parts of the US, where I typically carry about 40 lb (18 kg). I prefer to be prepared and comfortable, but I have taken lightweight trips as well. Initial ReportProduct Information & Specifications
Other Details provided by Manufacturer
Product Description
The Qaras is lined with a furry, orange layer of fleece that contrasts nicely with the pirate black, which has an almost blueish hue. The manufacturer states this high loft fleece is for superior warmth, but I think it is exceptionally cozy! This lining extends the full length of the sleeves as well as in the interior. The sleeves end with a Velcro cuff adjuster that can make the ends as tight or as loose as I want. The jacket has an elastic cord that is sewn into the hem and can be adjusted with two cord locks located inside the jacket. There is a full length zipper that has a nice orange, contrasting color. The jacket has two large pockets, one on either side of the jacket for my hands and loose items. The pockets measure 13 by 5.5 in (33 by 14.0 cm) and can be closed with a 8 in (20 cm) zipper with a zipper pull with the orange accent color. The pockets are not lined with the soft lining material as the rest of the jacket, but rather has a mesh material on one side while the other, jacket-facing side of the pocket is lined with fleece. There are also pit zips that measure 14.5 in (36.8 cm) long, each with two zipper pulls for a wide range of adjustments. Initial ImpressionsThe Qaras is a good fit. I ordered the large size based on the manufacturer's size chart. I do find the shoulders to be a little tight, but I have broad shoulders. The fleece lining is very nice and I find that wearing the Qaras is a very pleasant experience! Just trying on the jacket and wearing it around quickly, a little bit of the orange fleece has rubbed off on my base layers, but I hope this is just normal for a break in period. I do like the fit of the hood. It cinches up nicely to really fit the shape of my head quite well.The jacket is certainly functional for many of the weather conditions I expect during this test series. Nights in Wisconsin can get rather cool, even into July and August. Likewise, rain in the midwest is fairly regular. I did manage to test out the waterproof material in the sink. Water beads right off so I hope it can hold up in a full day downpour! I would have preferred for the pocket lining to be fully fleece-lined, but they are not uncomfortable at all. Reading the InstructionsThe manufacture's care instructions include to wash in cold on a gentle cycle. I should use powdered detergent and should NOT dry clean nor use bleach. I can tumble dry on low and it can be ironed on low as well.SummaryThe Mishmi Takin Qaras softshell jacket is well-constructed and comfortable. It seems warm and seems to shed water well. I am excited to get this out in the field! .Pros: Comfortable! I love the stretchy nature of the jacket too. Good construction. Cons: A little tight in the shoulders. A little on the heavy side. This concludes this initial report I would like to thank Mishmi Takin and BackpackGearTest.org for allowing me to test the Qaras softshell jacket. Please check back in approximately two months to see how the jacket is performing in the field. Field ReportField ConditionsComing soon!ObservationsLong Term ReportField ConditionsComing soon!ObservationsRead more reviews of Mishmi Takin gear Read more gear reviews by Brett Haydin Reviews > Clothing > Jackets and Vests > Mishmi Takin Qaras Softshell > Test Report by Brett Haydin | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
