Outdoor Research Tremor Soft Shell Parka
By Matt Smith

Several years ago I tested the Outdoor Research Quasar Parka. It was a phenomenal piece of work. The removable hood that floats with your head when you look around, the core vent zippers that allow you to pass your waist belt inside your parka instead of scrunching it all together on the outside...what memories. Then they cut it from their line. I was ecstatic to see the revival of some of those features on the Tremor Jacket

As I have noted on other reviews this season, the standard fare of soft shell features is present on the Tremor, everything you would expect to see including lined hand warmer pockets, draw cords on the collar and waist, a microfleece lined collar, media pocket with wire routing etc. But as I allueded to above, the Tremor features the floating removable hood. If you have spent any time in a down pour, blizzard, or wind storm with your hood pulled down tight you know what a pain it can be to look around. Most of the time you end up inspecting the inside of your hood rather than the scenery. The unique Outdoor Reseach solution to this problem is a testament to their innovation. You are able to turn and move your head freely without bunching or resistance around the neck. Now, I must admit you loose some protection by not having the hood attached, but it wasn't enough that it ever bothered me.

The Tremor Jacket is made with Gore Windstopper (TM) technology which provides both excellent flexibility and range of motion, as well as protection from the elements. Outdoor Research's DWR treatment is among the best available (if not the best....in my opinion). Even after repeated washes, abrasive encounters with icy groomers, and hammering though gambel oak, the Tremor continued to shed water. I'm not entirely sure that the Windstopper ever got a chance to protect me.

Summary: The Tremor is an excellent multi-discipline shell. It is equally at home on the slopes as it is in the alpine backcountry and at the pub. It is comfortable and functional. While you pay a premium $275 to get the proven Gore Windstopper (TM) technology, it will not be a purchace you will likely have to make again for some time. Outdoor Research is one of the few non-corporate manufacturers out there. You can count on their high quality and innovation every time.

A special thanks to the folks at Alta Ski area who set us up to test the Outdoor Research Tremor Softshell on site. You can learn more about Alta Ski Area and our other industry partners on our Partners Page.

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. He spends winters helping out with other reviews because there does come a point where canyoneering in snow and ice turns into ice climbing.