Outdoor Research Aria Down Hoody
By Matt Smith with special contributor Patti Smith.

Last winter we looked that the Outdoor Research Trance down sweater. This year, they have introduced a more refined, feminine version of the Trance; the women's Aria Hoody. As with the Trance, the Aria is constructed with 650 fill down. The shell is constructed with and ultra light 15D ripstip nylon. It has that eerie effect of letting you just catch a glimpse of the down inside with the light is right.

The Aria is relatively fitted, and therefore is quite flattering to the female physique. The embroidered baffles are both attractive, and work well to hold the down in place. There are large pockets on the inside suitable for gloves, hats, or small domesticated canines that seem to be popular as key fobs lately. All kidding aside, the Aria is a great casual piece, with some technical flair. It could be layered under a shell relatively well, but for full on alpine use, it probably makes sense to go with an insulated shell with heavier shell fabric.

Our female tester noted that the bust is not overly roomy for a given size, so make sure and try it on before buying. She really appreciated having the hood on those frigid days when the cold tries to climb down your neck. As might be expected, the Aria warms up very quickly during even moderately aerobic exercise, so bo ready so shed it if that is your plan. Because of the semi-fitted cut of the jacket, it doesn't lend itself to use as a belay parka, except perhaps in spring or fall when you aren't going to need to put it on over much other clothing.

Summary: The Ourtoor Reasearch Aria Hoody is a nice, lightweight down jacket with a hood. It is perfect for frigid dry days, moderate snow, and perhaps some occassional light winter rain. The Outdoor Research DWR treatment will do a good job of protecting your down, but if you are looking for a stand alone winter jacket you should consider at least a thin shell to go over it. The Aria can be found online for as little as $130, up to about $180 in other retail stores.

For more information contact:
Outdoor Research
www.orgear.com
2203 1st Avenue South
Seattle, WA 98134-1424
800-421-2421

Matt Smith is the canyoneering specialist at GearReview.com. His wife Patti is the "greatest good he is ever going to get!".