The Mountain Hardwear Ampato jacket sits at the higher end of the range on the rain jacket price scale. With that in mind you should expect that bit extra quality and some nice features. That definitely seems to be the case. I found a lot of good user experience with the Ampato and with lots of different colors to choose from, I really liked the look of it and so, wanted to learn more.
Mountain Hardwear Ampato Dry.Q Elite Jacket For Men
The Ampato is a durable and versatile hardshell jacket. Made with Dry.Q™ Elite waterproof, breathable technology it will keep any hiker dry and comfortable in all sorts of tough weather.
Summary
Brand and Model | Mountain Hardwear Men's Ampato Dry.Q Elite Jacket |
Price | |
Our Rating | |
Pros | Lot's of pocket storage: two hand warmer pockets, internal zip pockets and a Napoleon breast pocket; Very high scoring on the waterproof and breathability scales; Jacket just looks good and there are lots of colors to choose from |
Cons | Some comments the jackets runs small so getting a bigger size may be a good idea |
Best Uses | Day hiking, day-to-day casual use |
Review
OK, let's start with the primary function of a rain jacket, waterproofness and breathability. This jacket employs the Dry.Q Elite waterproof breathable technologies for that purpose.
On the waterproof side this jacket is fully seam sealed for complete waterproof protection. It features an attached adjustable storm hood with touch fasten storm flaps. The waterproof rating of this jacket is a whopping 40,000 mm so staying dry should not be an issue.
Moving on to Breathability, the membrane is breathable and is air-permeable which means that moisture is moved away from the skin and is released safely out and away from your body. There is a moisture wicking mesh-lined back to further aid this process. With that in mind, it's not surprising that the breathability rating is also impressive coming in at 30,000.
If all that isn't enough to keep your upper 'bodysphere' suitably ventilated, you can utilize the pit zips for fast air ventilation access. Pit zips can be a nice addition to have in a rain jacket. There's a standard draw cord hem to tighten and loosen the fit around your waste.
I am a fan of functional pockets and this jacket really comes up trumps in that department. There are the standard two hand warmer pockets, an interior security zip pocket finished off with a diagonal chest pocket with a watertight zip. This type of chest pocket is very handy to access some stuff while carrying a pack while out on the trail, very handy for a map and compass!
Mountain Hardwear Men's Ampato Jacket Features Summary
- Jacket features: Non-Insulated,Waterproof (All)
- Waterproof materials: Dry.Q® Elite waterproof breathable membrane
- Seam sealed: Full
- Pit zips
- Closure: Zipper,YKK®
- Zipper: Right
- Length: 29" (based on size large)
- Fabric: 100% nylon
- Lining: 100% nylon (smooth), 100% polyester (mesh)
- Care: Machine wash/dry
- Total weight: 1 lb. 4 oz.
Conclusion
If you're in the market for a new rain jacket for the trail, the Mountain Hardwear Ampato Dry.Q Elite Jacket is worth a look. It has all the features you would expect from a good rain jacket and, with lot's of positive user experience, should perform solidly out on the trail. Overall, it ticks all the main boxes, so for a newbie or experienced hiker, this jacket fits the bill.
If you're new to rain jackets, check out the rain jacket buying advice here. If you'd like to see more top rain jackets, check out our top rain jacket recommendations for men.
Have you tried the Mountain Hardwear Ampato Dry.Q Elite Jacket? How did you find it? I’d love to hear about your experience with it in the comments below!
