Columbia Powder Lite Jacket
The American brand Columbia founded in 1938 and based in Portland (Oregon) has one of the most reputable track records in the outdoor textile sector. Important innovations in technology year after year guarantee the good performance of its wide range of products. And in this test, we put on one of their most versatile jackets, suitable for the autumn and winter season. It is the Columbia Powder Lite, a garment that features Omni-Heat technology, offering protection against low temperatures and water repellency.
With the Columbia Powder Lite jacket you will be able to maintain an adequate temperature for any day of hiking, with high levels of comfort without sacrificing lightness and avoiding wearing several layers.
Omni-Heat to keep out the cold
Omni-Heat is a Columbia exclusive technology. It is a highly advanced thermo-reflective inner membrane designed to retain body heat without sacrificing breathability.
The brand itself claims that this is a technology for activities where one needs to keep warm and light during long periods exposed to low temperatures and wind.
The operation of the Omni-Heat is very simple and can be compared almost entirely to the effect of an emergency thermal blanket, those that have two sides: one for cooling and one for heating. Thus, the small silver dots reflect body heat to retain it inside, in contact with the body and minimize heat loss.
That said, you may think that breathability is not one of its strong points, but that is not true. Omni-Heat is highly ventilated thanks to its hydro-absorbent capacity that facilitates the evacuation of excess heat and moisture.
In addition, the 100% polyester synthetic down has the ability to prevent heat loss to the outside and keep you safe from cold temperatures.
Water repellent
The Columbia Powder Lite jacket, in addition to maintaining body temperature, is also water repellent, so rain won’t be a problem either. Thanks to the external coating with Storm Lite DP II technology, raindrops will not penetrate the inside of the fabric and will not come into contact with the skin.
There’s nothing worse than a light drizzle or a downpour in the middle of a mountain hike, but with this jacket, adverse weather will no longer be a concern. And occasionally it may happen that although clear skies are forecast, especially depending on which regions are frequent, unexpected afternoon rain may appear. To avoid ending the excursion, it is best to carry a waterproof jacket that can also serve as a warm jacket for cold conditions. Thus, the Columbia Powder Lite offers you these two features.
Conclusions
Columbia has made a jacket that will provide you with a high degree of warmth as well as water repellency and a high degree of quality. The fabric, the inner lining, the zippers and other elements of the jacket have been carefully designed down to the smallest detail to ensure long-lasting durability over time without losing its basic characteristics.
The sizing of the Columbia Powder Lite is a bit large so we recommend that if you are in between sizes or just like to go with a tighter fit, go for the size smaller than your usual size.
Thanks to its active adjustment system, we will not be penalized by lack of mobility as the “body-skimming” adjustment adapts perfectly to the morphology of our body. In short, you get excellent freedom of movement for whatever you need.With the Columbia Powder Lite you can enjoy days of hiking without worrying about the weather.
For who?
The jacket Columbia Powder Lite jacket is a warm garment for the coldest and rainiest months of the year when you need extra protection against adverse weather. A jacket for day trips in the mountains, hiking and even for urban activities thanks to its discreet design, perfectly combinable with casual clothing.
PROS
Warmth
Water repellent
CONS
Pattern somewhat large
No hood
Technical information
Brand
Model
Description
Down jacket with synthetic insulation developed by Columbia that prevents heat dispersion. Omni-Heat Thermal reflective lining increases thermal capabilities. Without hood.
Exterior
Storm-Lite DP II 100 % Polyester
Fleece
100% Polyester
Insulation
100% polyester synthetic down
Pockets
Two zippered side pockets
Fit
Adjustable hem with waistband
Available sizes
S, M, L, XL and XXL
Price
€ 99,99
Colours available
Black; Strong Blue; Navy Blue and Dark Blue; Dark Navy Blue
More info here
