Outdoor Research

Freewheel 1/2-Zip Hoodie - Men's

Stoked on this thing!

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Size Bought:

Large

Height:

6' 2"

Weight:

150

I’m a big believer in softshell apparel, and I’ve loved how flexible this hoodie can be. I’ve worn it on cooler trail rides with just a jersey underneath, as an outer shell for warmer days skiing, and just as a casual piece around town. It’s super breathable, water resistant, and can fit into your layering system as an outer shell or mid layer if you need that level of insulation on cold rides. The hood is pretty low-profile, and not designed to fit over a helmet, so this is a feature to use off the bike or if you underestimated how cold it would be and you wear it flipped up under your helmet. I need length in the arms and torso since I’m 6’2”, but I am rail thin and stuff like this can end up very sail-like in the wind and at higher speeds. I went with a size large and stuck it in the dryer instead of hang drying like I typically do for apparel like this. Fits perfect now. All in all, this is a well-thought-out minimalist softshell hoodie that serves its purpose in a wide range of use cases, and is built to take some abuse. #CompetitiveCyclistGearheads #BackcountryGearheads

Perfect tech hoodie

I use this just as much hiking and climbing as I do riding. The fit is dialed and the hood offers great coverage. I highly recommend this as an extra layer for any adventurer. It's a durable layer and heavier than a minimal rain cape. because of this it can't pack down into itself.

Great In-between Season Jacket

I love this jacket so far. The fit is perfect for me. This has been my go-to activity jacket. I have been running and biking in it. I have also used it as a good mid layer under my shell here in rainy Seattle. It doesn't have a ton of insulation, but for the warmer days it is great as a breathable do everything jacket. The fabric is very durable, and I don't feel like I will have any future issues with it. Feels like I could take a couple good falls off my bike on it and I would most likely break myself before the jacket. I will say one downside is that in windy conditions that hood does end up catching the wind. Make sure that you tuck it behind your back if you are commuting.

Great extra layer!

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Size Bought:

M

Weight:

176

The fit is exactly how it should be. Enough room underneath fit over your normal jersey or even a heavier trail flannel but not so much that it's loose and baggy. The drop tail hem is nice and OR does a great job tapering the wrist openings so that the top/outside of the sleeve extends over the top of your hand/glove. The inside of the jacket has a soft, brushed feel and not fleecy. It's also textured so it kind stays off or your skin which not only helps create air space for insulation, but also keeps it from being clingy once you do create some perspiration. The outside of the fabric feels durable and able to handle abrasions or passing brush well, but I haven't tested that yet. The hood also has a great fit that moves with the head well and has good peripheral vision. With the hood up and zipper zipped, the opening circles the face perfectly with the zipper(covered) hitting right below the chin and the hood sitting right at the brow-line. The more fitted opening also keeps it from parachuting when down while on the bike. I look forward to taking this on more chilly morning rides, but it also does great sitting around enjoying post ride hangs.

Durable, Lightweight and Perfect Fit

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Great riding jacket for those windy/rainy days, really love how lightweight it is without compromising on performance. The fit is perfect, not too tight where it feels restrictive but also not baggy to where there's excess wind flap. The double weave stretch fabric is extremely comfortable as well and doesn't get in the way with quick, snappy maneuvers. Overall, really impressed with this jacket - this will be my go-to for any cold or wet weather riding.