AllOutdoor Review – Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoodie
Patrik Orcutt 04.18.23
Outdoor Research is a Seattle-based manufacturer of technical apparel and gear for outdoor sports, They were formed back in 1980s after a climber was attempting a summit of Mt. Denali when he and his team had a failure of a set of gaiters that sent them packing back down the mountain. That climber was Ron Gregg and after just over a year, Ron would have started his own outdoor brand, Outdoor Research (OR). Back in 1980, their flagship product was an improved pair of gaiters, fixing the problems Ron had with older pairs. Today OR’s product line includes everything you would need for alpinism, rock and ice climbing, backpacking, paddling, and backcountry skiing and snowboarding. This particular review will focus on one of their most popular items, the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoodie.
I have been wearing the OR Ferrosi Hoodie for the better part of two years and have used it mostly for travel and hiking. The OR Ferrosi Hoodie was independently purchased and reviewed by myself and OR has not been allowed to preview this review.
Specs – Outdoor Research Echo Line
- Fabric: 86% Nylon / 14% Elastane
- Manufactured in: Vietnam
- Weight: 13.4 oz
- MSRP: $149
Comfort and Fit – Outdoor Research Echo Line
Being that the Ferrosi is constructed of very soft and breathable materials they comfort on this jacket is great. It’s very nice against the skin and does not irritate even on longer outings. I’ve worn this jacket for 8 to 12 hours at a time on long hikes with zero irritation. The fit on the other hand for me personally is not that great while the torso fit is fantastic the arms are about two-three inches too long. For reference, I am wearing the size medium and I am 5’9”, 165 pounds with an athletic build.
Features – Outdoor Research Echo Line
For being a lightweight jacket, the Ferrosi comes packed with a boatload of features. Up top, you have an adjustable hood allowing for a more comfortable fit depending on your head size or if you’re wearing a hat. There is one external chest pocket which is great for storing smaller items like ski lift tickets or chapstick. OR markets this as being a great place to store your phone but personally I would never put my phone in this pocket.
This jacket is also very packable and one of the hand pockets doubles as a stuff sack that the jacket can be stored inside of. I love this feature and it’s quite common in many of Outdoor Research’s lighter-weight jackets. There are hidden key clips in the hand pockets. The entire bottom of the jacket has an adjustable drawcord making it easier to have a snugger fit. I like this feature as when it gets cold or windy out you can really tighten up the jacket. Internally there is one stash pocket and this is a good spot for gloves.
Breathability – Outdoor Research Echo Line
The Ferrosi is one of the most breathable jackets I own making it fantastic for high-activity workouts like running or rock climbing. Of course, all of that breathability does hinder overall weather protection.
Versatility – Outdoor Research Echo Line
Being that this jacket is so stretchy it’s very versatile and what you can do with it. As mentioned before it’s great for high-mobility activities like rock climbing and hiking but I also found it to be a great choice for the range. While I was still living in Europe this jacket often found its way into my backpack for weekend trips as it looks just as good on the trail as on the town.
Competitive Options – Outdoor Research Echo Line
Likes
- Breathable
- Inexpensive
- Versatile
Dislikes
- Poor rain protection
- Arms are too long
Wrap Up – Outdoor Research Echo Line
Being one of Outdoor Researches’ most popular items the Sarosi who did jacket is a staple of the softshell jacket world. It’s a stretchy fabric and mild weather protection and a lightweight and breathable shell making it an affordable option that packs tons of versatility. If you are rock climbing in the summertime, bicycling, running, hiking, or just trying to escape some wind this is a great option at a great price.
