If you’re anything like me, your outdoor plans rarely get canceled due to weather. In fact, sometimes the unpredictable weather is part of the adventure. That’s why I was excited to get my hands on the Cotopaxi Impermeo 3L Hooded Shell Jacket. Designed for those “just in case” moments in the backcountry, this jacket has quickly become an essential part of my gear lineup.
First Impressions
Straight out of the box, the Impermeo looks and feels ready for action. The face fabric is robust without being stiff, and there’s just enough stretch to feel like it’ll move with you rather than against you. The colorways Cotopaxi offers are always stylish, and this one is no exception—bold without being loud, technical without screaming “gear junkie.”
At 125 gsm, the weight feels light enough to pack down easily but substantial enough to inspire confidence when the clouds roll in. Add to that the fact that it’s made from 100% recycled post-consumer plastic waste (rPET), and you’ve got a jacket that doesn’t just protect you, but also minimizes environmental impact.
Waterproofing That Actually Works
Spring in the Rockies means you can go from sunny skies to sideways rain in a matter of minutes. I put the Impermeo to the test on several hikes where the forecast was “maybe rain, maybe not.” On one particular outing near Bear Lake, a sudden storm rolled through. Thunder cracked, and the downpour followed.
Thanks to its 10k/10k waterproof and breathability rating and fully seam-sealed construction, the Impermeo kept me completely dry—no leakage at the zippers, seams, or shoulders. The Aquaguard centerfront zipper, along with the internal storm flap, was a lifesaver. Even my phone, safely tucked away in the Aquaguard chest pocket, stayed bone dry.
Movement and Comfort
Let’s talk range of motion. I’ve worn a fair share of shells that felt like slipping into a crinkly, restrictive tarp. Not so with the Impermeo. The two-way stretch makes a massive difference on steep ascents and scrambling sections. It never felt like I had to fight the fabric to lift my arms or bend down to secure a pack strap.
The adjustable hood, cuffs, and hem make it easy to dial in the fit, even when I’m layering over a base and midlayer. The laminated visor on the hood is a nice touch, keeping water off my face without blocking peripheral vision. And pit zips? Yes, please. On warmer hikes where rain came without a temperature drop, I cracked them open and let the airflow do its thing.
Packability
This jacket packs into its own right-hand pocket, and when I say packable, I mean it. It compresses down small enough to toss into my daypack without thinking twice. I’ve even carried it in a trail running vest on longer efforts where space was at a premium.
Having a fully waterproof, breathable jacket that takes up minimal real estate in your bag makes it much more likely that you’ll bring it “just in case” — which, as anyone who plays in the mountains knows, is the whole point.
Everyday Utility
While I bought the Impermeo with mountain missions in mind, I’ve found myself wearing it around town just as often. It’s become my go-to shell for everything from walking the dog during a drizzle to running errands when the forecast is sketchy. The fit is technical enough for performance use but clean and modern enough to pass in casual settings.
And let’s not forget the sustainability story. Cotopaxi designed this jacket without intentionally added PFAS chemicals, and it’s made from recycled materials. That feels especially relevant when you’re standing in the rain, surrounded by alpine lakes and wildflowers, grateful for companies that care about preserving the places we love.
What I Love
- Weatherproofing: Seriously impressive protection in unpredictable weather
- Mobility: Stretch fabric + smart cut = all-day comfort
- Packability: Packs into its own pocket for grab-and-go use
- Details: Aquaguard zips, storm flap, pit zips, adjustable hood with visor
- Eco-friendly: Recycled materials, PFAS-free
Final Verdict
The Cotopaxi Impermeo 3L Hooded Shell Jacket has quickly earned a permanent spot in my hiking pack and on my coat rack. It’s the jacket I throw in when the weather is uncertain, and the one I end up grateful for when the storm inevitably arrives. Whether you’re chasing wildflowers, hiking coastal trails, or just dodging summer downpours in town, this shell delivers protection, comfort, and peace of mind.