Make & Model - Columbia Crested Butte
MSRP - $110
Colors - Graphite, Everblue, Rocket
Insulation - Columbia OmniHeat
Fit - Casual
Pockets - 2 hand, 1 internal Napoleon
Intended Use - Casual
URL - http://www.columbia.com

This budget alternative proved to be quite effective. OmniHeat technology pioneered by Columbia consists of both an 80g polyester fill material and its OmniHeat reflective material lining. The warmth is impressive, but some of the higher-end finishing touches are a hard compromise if you're used to being spoiled in the cold weather.

Performance:
True to its name, OmniHeat Insulation did a great job in all conditions. We mostly used the Crested Butte as a mid-layer under a shell and full bib skiing. For lift served, stop and go activity, this thin jacket was surprisingly toasty. However, we paid for that with less breathability; toward the end of the day, clamminess for our cumulative sweat set in. The main zipper had no issues, but we kept getting the Pockets stuck. As a bang-for-your-buck option, it can definitely hang with the top-shelf contenders.

Pros:
– Price
– Reflective coating works well.
– Versatile in various conditions

Cons:
– Weight is a tradeoff for its warmth.
– Sizing was a little off — medium felt more like a small.