[Review] The Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket by Mountain Hardwear

Finding a good rain jacket can be hard work. Finding one that is packable and easy to take with you on any adventure is even harder! Thanks to Mountain Hardwear, I now have a Gore-Tex rain jacket to keep me dry on even the wettest of days. The Exposure/2 Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket is super lightweight, extremely waterproof, and breathable. If you’re looking for a rain jacket to stash in your pack whether you are climbing, motorcycling, mountain biking, or hiking this would be my first choice!

The Exposure/2 is made with Gore-Tex Paclite which means it’s guaranteed to keep you dry, is a stretch material so it moves with not against you, and breathable, all the while being a packable jacket. I’m so used to my rain jacket being stiff and hard but times are changing and I’m not mad about it. 

This is a simple jacket which in turn helps on weight and packability. If you’re heading out on an adventure of which you have to pack light for, this will be the ultimate jacket to add to your suitcase to protect you from wet conditions. Sticking with the simple design, the Exposure/2 does not have any armpit vents. What they’ve done instead is make two oversized hand pockets on the front that double as vents. They are lined with a mesh material so if you are overheating, open the large front pockets and you’ll get airflow into your core. I almost think that these vents work better than pit zips because in order for a pit zip to work effectively (if you really think about it) your hands would have to be up in the air. There’s also one more pocket on the chest which is perfect for valuables as it has a zipper closure. This pocket is climbing harness compatible. The vents can also be undone with a climbing harness on, just not all the way (depending on if you have your jacket over or under your harness). 

Speaking of climbing harnesses, I really wish the Exposure/2 had a two-way zip on the main zip. It would add just a little bit of value (but also weight) for me but that may be a personal preference. The hood of this jacket easily fits over a climbing helmet and there is a pull adjustment on the back of the hood to size it down to your head/hat/helmet so that the hood does not fall into your eyes. 

I love having a waterproof jacket that I can throw into any pack and know that I’ll be protected no matter the weather situation. The Exposure/2 is lightweight and super packable, comfortable, and is guaranteed to keep you dry. It’s a simple and clean looking jacket with stylish color accents. Wear this on the trail or wear it into town, it’ll keep you dry and looking fresh.