Hyperlite Mountain Gear, a manufacturer of 100% USA-made ultralight outdoor equipment, is launching its first-ever outerwear product with The Shell, an ultralight technical jacket weighing between 5.16 and 6.20 ounces, depending on the size.

“Our goal was to design a jacket that was so light and functional that there was no reason not to bring it on every trip,” said Mike St. Pierre, founder and CEO of Hyperlite Mountain Gear, who began testing a prototype of the jacket in 2015 during a thru-hike of the Grand Canyon.

“We could not be more excited about introducing The Shell. We’re eager to get it on the backs of our devoted customers and any outdoor adventurer looking to significantly lighten their gear load without sacrificing performance.”

Fabric technology

All Hyperlite Mountain Gear products utilise Dyneema fabrics; materials incorporated with the strongest man-made fibres that are 15 times stronger than steel in weight per weight ratio. Working closely with Dyneema, St. Pierre helped test and refine a highly durable, waterproof breathable fabric for The Shell ultralight technical jacket.

Known as Dyneema Composite Fabrics with waterproof breathable properties, also known as DCF-WPB, the fabric is said to achieve the optimal balance of weight and durability consistent with all Hyperlite Mountain Gear products, while the eVent membrane provides the waterproof, windproof and high-breathability characteristics achieved through eVent’s patented air permeable waterproof technology.

Long-lasting performance

In The Shell, Dyneema and eVent together ensure peak comfort and long-lasting performance for all outdoor adventurers such as backpackers, packrafters, thru-hikers, climbers, alpinists, and skiers, the company explains.

“In my experience, I feel The Shell will last three times longer than similarly weighted and priced jackets. I have yet to find a jacket that even comes close,” said Luc Mehl, Alaska-based, professional multi-sport adventurer and avid Hyperlite Mountain Gear customer-turned-Ambassador. “I’m also really proud to support a product made entirely in the US.”

Features

Features of The Shell include a low-profile stuff pocket, enabling it to become its own carrying case, a waterproof zipper and clip-in point, making it ideal for a wide range of adventurers, including climbers or any sport that requires quick and easy access to the jacket. It also features a helmet compatible hood, stiff hood brim, and Velcro adjustable cuffs for the highest weather protection.

www.hyperlitemountaingear.com