Based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the outdoor apparel company Stio has plenty of opportunity to test out their functional outdoor gear on the slopes and trails that surround this wilderness mecca of a town. All that hard work has proven successful with their winter sports shell, the Environ Jacket .
Composed of the company’s own 3-layer waterproof and breathable material known as Brio 3L, the 100% polyester jacket makes an excellent winter jacket for all types of activities. The water-resistant Aquaguard zippers on the center front and waist pockets ensure no soggy papers at the end of the day. The jacket boasts a 30-denier yarn which feels surprisingly light and thin over a down insulated layer. The DWR finish made certain that I stayed dry while I tested the jacket’s durability and waterproofness on a wet, snowy day.
I found this jacket to be a flattering cut and fit true to size. The removable hood was a nice touch on sunny days when a hood was not necessary. Similarly, the underarm zippers proved vital in keeping me cool and well ventilated when I was breathing hard and working up a sweat. When the wind picked up and the temperature dropped, the adjustable hems and cord locks gave me a tight fit around my face and head so I could stay outside and keep getting in some runs.
The seams on the inside of the jacket are intricately sealed with precision and attention to detail. The jacket, weighing 15 ounces, features two internal pockets–one zippered to hold keys and other valuables. Finally, the cord locks at the waist were useful in providing a tight fit and keeping snow out.
Whether ice climbing, backcountry skiing, or snowboarding at the resort, the Environ will keep you dry and protected from the elements.
The Stio Environ Jacket retails for $395 and is available from the company website.
–Joslin Fritz
