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.

When it comes to mountain gear, versatility isn’t just a bonus – it’s a necessity. The KÜHL OUTLAW Waxed Ranch Hat proves this point perfectly, serving as both a practical piece of weather protection and a stylish everyday hat that’s ready for whatever the mountains throw at you.

First Snow Test at Snow Mountain Ranch

I recently put the OUTLAW through its paces during the season’s first snow at YMCA of the Rockies Snow Mountain Ranch. There’s something special about testing gear during those initial winter storms – it’s when you really discover if a piece of equipment lives up to its promises. The OUTLAW didn’t just meet expectations; it exceeded them.

As the snow fell and the wind picked up, the hat’s thoughtful design revealed its true value. The waxed cotton blend shed snowflakes effortlessly, while the brim provided crucial face protection from both falling snow and biting wind. But what really impressed me was how the folding earflaps transformed this seemingly simple ranch hat into serious cold-weather gear.

Beyond the Snow

What makes the OUTLAW truly stand out is its adaptability across seasons. During fall hikes, the hat offers perfect temperature regulation – protecting your face from the sun while keeping your ears comfortable in the crisp mountain air. The flannel lining adds just enough warmth without overheating, making it ideal for those variable temperature days in the mountains.

Standout Features:

• Waxed Cotton Construction: Provides excellent weather resistance without the stiff feel of typical waterproof materials
• Adjustable Fit: The back cord adjustment ensures a secure fit regardless of activity or conditions
• Versatile Earflaps: Easy to deploy when the temperature drops or fold away on warmer days
• Flannel Lining: Adds crucial warmth without bulk
• Practical Brim: Offers sun and weather protection while maintaining visibility

Daily Use and Durability

After several weeks of regular use, from snowy conditions to sunny fall days, the hat shows no signs of wear. The waxed finish maintains its weather resistance, and the flannel lining remains soft and comfortable. The cord adjustment hasn’t loosened, and the earflaps maintain their shape whether up or down.

The Verdict

While many outdoor brands offer specialized hats for specific conditions, the KÜHL OUTLAW Waxed Ranch Hat stands out by being genuinely versatile. It’s equally at home during a first snow at Snow Mountain Ranch as it is on a sunny fall hike or during daily mountain town activities.

Pros:

• Excellent weather versatility
• Quality construction
• Thoughtful features like the flannel lining and adjustable cord
• Practical sun protection
• Stylish enough for daily wear

Cons:

• Premium price point (though justified by versatility and durability)
• May be too warm for peak summer use

Bottom Line

The KÜHL OUTLAW Waxed Ranch Hat is more than just another piece of outdoor gear – it’s a versatile solution for mountain living. Whether you’re experiencing the first snow of the season or need protection on a sunny mountain day, this hat delivers reliable performance while maintaining a classic aesthetic. For anyone seeking a single hat that can handle variable mountain conditions, the OUTLAW deserves a serious look.