Microgravity Ascentshell Jacket

Finding Your Perfect Storm Shield for Every Adventure

After five years as a mountain guide and outdoor gear tester, I’ve worn more jackets than I care to count. Some have left me soaked and shivering on windswept ridges, while others have become trusted companions on countless adventures. When it comes to balancing protection, breathability, and value, the Microgravity Ascentshell Jacket stands as one of the most versatile pieces of outerwear I’ve ever tested.

I still remember the first time I put it through its paces—a three-day trek through Washington’s Olympic Mountains during an unseasonably wet spring. As the skies opened up and rain pounded relentlessly, I braced myself for that familiar clammy sensation that comes when lesser jackets surrender to the elements. But hour after hour, the Microgravity kept performing, keeping me dry from both the outside deluge and my own exertion.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior looking to upgrade your gear or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast seeking the perfect technical shell, this comprehensive guide will help you determine if the Microgravity Ascentshell Jacket deserves a place in your pack. I’ll dive deep into its features, performance, value proposition, and how it stacks up against the competition—all based on my firsthand experience in the harshest conditions Mother Nature could throw my way.

The Microgravity Ascentshell: A Technical Overview

Before I take you through my personal experiences with this jacket, let’s establish a foundation by examining what makes the Microgravity Ascentshell unique in today’s crowded outerwear market.

The Microgravity represents Outdoor Research’s answer to the age-old outdoor dilemma: how to create a jacket that’s waterproof enough for serious precipitation, breathable enough for high-output activities, and durable enough to withstand the abuse of adventure—all while maintaining a reasonable weight and price point.

At its core, this jacket is built around OR’s proprietary Ascentshell technology, a 3-layer construction that features an electrospun membrane. Unlike traditional waterproof membranes that rely on micropores (which can clog over time), Ascentshell uses a complex matrix of polyurethane fibers to create air-permeable protection. This means moisture vapor can escape more efficiently while rain and snow stay locked out.

The outer fabric is a robust 30D polyester that strikes an impressive balance between durability and weight savings. This is reinforced in high-wear areas like the shoulders and upper arms to prevent pack abrasion from compromising waterproofing—a thoughtful touch that demonstrates OR’s understanding of how their gear is actually used in the field.

The interior features a soft, patterned backer that feels comfortable against the skin or base layers while enhancing moisture wicking. All seams are fully taped, and YKK AquaGuard zippers provide additional water resistance at all openings. The main zipper features an interior storm flap for redundant protection against driving rain.

Weight-wise, my men’s medium tips the scale at 14.6 ounces (414g), placing it squarely in the lightweight technical shell category—not ultralight, but not burdensome either. It compresses down to about the size of a large grapefruit, making it an easy addition to any pack.

Ascentshell Technology: The Science Behind the Protection

To truly appreciate what makes the Microgravity special, we need to understand Ascentshell technology and how it differs from other waterproof-breathable solutions on the market.

For decades, outdoor enthusiasts had to choose between truly waterproof jackets that left them sweaty or breathable pieces that eventually surrendered to sustained precipitation. Gore-Tex revolutionized this space, but its premium pricing put it out of reach for many. Enter Ascentshell—Outdoor Research’s proprietary answer to this dilemma.

Ascentshell technology creates an electrospun membrane with millions of microscopic fibers that form a maze-like structure, allowing sweat vapor to escape while blocking water droplets from entering. This approach differs fundamentally from traditional micropore membranes, which can become compromised when body oils, dirt, or washing detergents clog those tiny holes over time.

The technology provides an impressive 20,000mm waterproof rating and 15,000g/m²/24hr breathability rating—numbers that put it in the upper echelon of performance fabrics. For those unfamiliar with these metrics, a 20,000mm rating means the fabric could hold a column of water 20 meters tall before leaking—well above what’s considered necessary for heavy precipitation.

Perhaps most impressively, Ascentshell achieves this performance at a significantly lower price point than comparable Gore-Tex Pro or eVent jackets. This democratization of high-performance outerwear represents a significant shift in the industry, making technical gear more accessible without dramatic performance sacrifices.

During my testing, I’ve found Ascentshell performs admirably in both high-intensity activities and sustained precipitation. On a particularly grueling uphill ski tour in Colorado’s backcountry, I maintained comfort despite working up a significant sweat in 25°F temperatures. Hours later, when an unexpected squall hit, the jacket continued to repel moisture effectively.

Key Features That Set the Microgravity Apart

The Microgravity Ascentshell isn’t just about its innovative membrane—it’s packed with thoughtful features that enhance its performance across diverse activities and conditions.

Helmet-Compatible Hood

The fully adjustable, wire-brimmed hood deserves special mention. It easily accommodates a climbing or skiing helmet while maintaining excellent visibility and range of motion. Three-way adjustment points (two at the front, one at the back) allow for a customized fit even without a helmet. I particularly appreciate how the hood moves with your head rather than restricting peripheral vision—a crucial safety feature when navigating technical terrain.

Ventilation System

While breathable membranes handle moisture management during moderate activity, intense exertion demands additional ventilation options. The Microgravity delivers with generously sized pit zips that extend from mid-chest to elbow. These two-way zippers allow for customized airflow depending on conditions and activity level. During a particularly strenuous approach to Mount Rainier’s Disappointment Cleaver, I found these pit zips essential for regulating temperature without removing the jacket in changing weather conditions.

Pockets and Storage

The pocket configuration strikes an excellent balance between functionality and simplicity:

• Two large hand pockets sit high enough to remain accessible while wearing a harness or hipbelt
• One chest pocket provides secure storage for small essentials
• All pockets feature water-resistant YKK AquaGuard zippers
• The hand pockets double as core vents when opened

I particularly value the chest pocket’s placement, which allows quick access to my smartphone for navigation or photos without removing my pack or exposing my core to precipitation.

Fit and Adjustability

The Microgravity features what OR calls a “standard fit”—roomy enough for layering without unnecessary bulk. Articulated elbows and a slight drop hem enhance mobility and coverage. Velcro cuff adjustments and a dual-adjustment hem drawcord allow for further customization depending on conditions.

On a technical note, the cut permits full overhead reach without hem rise—essential for climbing and scrambling. I’ve worn this jacket while leading 5.10 sport routes and found the mobility exceptional for a fully protective shell.

Real-World Performance: How the Microgravity Handles Extreme Conditions

Technical specifications and features lists only tell part of the story. The true test of any outdoor garment comes in challenging real-world conditions. Over two years of testing, I’ve subjected the Microgravity to everything from Pacific Northwest deluges to alpine snowstorms to desert wind events. Here’s how it performed:

Waterproof Performance

During a three-day backpacking trip in Olympic National Park, I encountered sustained rainfall that dropped nearly five inches in 48 hours. Many waterproof jackets begin to wet through under such persistent precipitation, but the Microgravity maintained its integrity throughout. Water beaded and rolled off consistently, and the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment showed minimal signs of saturation even after extended exposure.

The only weakness I noted was slight moisture penetration at the shoulders after hours with a loaded backpack pressing against the fabric in driving rain. This is common with virtually all waterproof-breathable jackets and speaks more to the limitations of the technology category than this specific jacket.

Wind Resistance

On an exposed ridge in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, I faced sustained 45mph winds with gusts approaching 60mph. The Microgravity proved completely windproof, with no perceptible air penetration through the fabric or seams. The adjustable hood remained secure even in gusting conditions, and the full-length storm flap prevented wind from penetrating the main zipper.

This level of wind protection makes a substantial difference in perceived warmth. Even with moderate insulating layers underneath, I remained comfortable in temperatures hovering around freezing despite the significant wind chill factor.

Breathability and Moisture Management

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Microgravity’s performance is its breathability during high-output activities. During a spring ski mountaineering trip on Mount Adams, I maintained a strenuous uphill pace for several hours while wearing the jacket (temperatures in the low 30s with occasional snow flurries made removing it impractical).

Despite generating significant body heat and moisture, I experienced only minimal condensation inside the jacket—far less than I’ve encountered with Gore-Tex options in similar conditions. The electrospun membrane seemed to allow moisture vapor to escape more efficiently, especially during periods of steady exertion.

That said, no fully waterproof jacket can match the breathability of a softshell or hybrid design. During intense activity in milder conditions, you’ll still want to utilize the pit zips or remove the jacket entirely to prevent overheating.

Durability in Harsh Environments

After numerous encounters with rock, ice tools, ski edges, and brush, my Microgravity shows remarkably little wear. The reinforced shoulders and arms have proven especially durable under pack straps. After approximately 100 days of use across various activities and environments, the jacket remains fully waterproof with no delamination, seam failure, or zipper issues.

The face fabric has developed a slightly softer hand over time but retains its water repellency after proper washing and reapplication of DWR treatment. This longevity makes the Microgravity an excellent value proposition compared to more expensive alternatives that might require replacement within a similar timeframe.

Suitability for Different Outdoor Activities

One jacket cannot excel at everything, but the Microgravity comes remarkably close to being a true all-arounder. Here’s how it performs across different outdoor pursuits:

Hiking and Backpacking

The Microgravity shines for three-season backpacking, offering reliable protection without excessive weight or pack volume. The breathability proves valuable during strenuous ascents, while the robust waterproofing handles extended precipitation. The hood adjusts well with or without a hat, and the pocket configuration works harmoniously with pack hip belts.

If I had to identify one primary use case for this jacket, extended backpacking trips in variable conditions would be it. The combination of protection, breathability, and durability makes it ideal for journeys where weight matters but not at the expense of performance.

Alpine Climbing and Mountaineering

For mountaineering and alpine climbing, the Microgravity offers several advantages. The helmet-compatible hood provides full coverage without restricting visibility, while the articulated cut allows overhead reaching without exposing the midriff. The reinforced shoulders stand up well to pack abrasion on long approaches.

I’ve used this jacket on several glacier climbs, including routes on Rainier and Baker, where its breathability during ascents and waterproofing during unexpected weather changes proved invaluable. The only limitation for serious alpinism might be in extreme cold conditions, where more specialized expedition shells might offer additional features or robustness.

Skiing and Snowboarding

While not marketed specifically as a ski shell, the Microgravity performs admirably for backcountry skiing and resort days alike. The powder skirt is the only major feature missing compared to dedicated ski shells, but the length and adjustable hem provide adequate snow protection in most conditions.

For backcountry touring, the breathability shines during ascents, while the waterproofing handles both precipitation and snow contact during descents. The hood accommodates a ski helmet with minimal adjustment, and the pocket arrangement works well with avalanche safety gear.

Rock Climbing

For multi-pitch traditional climbing where weather protection might be needed, the Microgravity offers excellent mobility and harness-compatible pockets. The articulated cut prevents hem rise during overhead movements, and the slim profile doesn’t create excessive bulk under a harness.

However, for dedicated rock climbing in conditions where a hardshell is necessary, there are lighter, more packable emergency shells that might be preferable. The Microgravity represents a good choice when substantial weather protection might be required rather than as an emergency-only layer.

Everyday and Travel Use

Beyond technical outdoor pursuits, the Microgravity serves admirably as a travel and everyday rain jacket. Its clean aesthetic doesn’t scream “technical outdoor gear,” and the durability handles the rigors of regular use. The breathability proves valuable even during mundane activities like commuting, where less breathable rainwear often creates uncomfortable dampness.

For frequent travelers facing uncertain weather, the Microgravity offers comprehensive protection without excessive weight or pack volume. Its versatility eliminates the need for multiple specialized jackets, making it an efficient choice for minimalist packers.

Aesthetic and Design: Color Options and Styling

Unlike many technical pieces that emphasize function at the expense of form, the Microgravity achieves an appealing aesthetic that works both on the mountain and around town.

The jacket is available in a range of colors that balance visibility with versatility. Current options include:

• Cobalt Blue
• Forest Green
• Black
• Firebrick Red
• Naval Blue
• Pewter Gray

I opted for the Cobalt Blue, which provides excellent visibility in backcountry environments while still looking appropriate in urban settings. The color has maintained its vibrancy despite numerous washings and extensive UV exposure.

The design elements remain clean and purposeful without excessive branding or unnecessary features. Reflective logos provide subtle visibility in low-light conditions without creating an overtly technical appearance.

Care and Maintenance: Extending Your Jacket’s Lifespan

Proper maintenance significantly impacts the performance and lifespan of any technical garment. For the Microgravity Ascentshell, following specific care procedures helps maintain waterproofing and breathability:

1. Regular Cleaning: Contrary to popular belief, technical shells benefit from regular cleaning. Dirt, oils, and contaminants can compromise waterproofing and breathability. I wash my Microgravity approximately every 15-20 days of use.
2. Proper Washing Technique: Use a technical cleaner specifically designed for waterproof garments (I recommend Nikwax Tech Wash or Grangers Performance Cleaner). Avoid regular detergents, fabric softeners, or bleach, which can damage the membrane and DWR treatment.
3. DWR Reapplication: When water stops beading on the surface and begins to “wet out” the face fabric, it’s time to reapply DWR. I use Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On after washing, focusing on high-wear areas like shoulders and forearms.
4. Proper Drying: Air drying works well, but I’ve found that tumble drying on low heat actually helps reactivate the DWR treatment. Always check manufacturer recommendations first, but a brief tumble dry has improved water repellency in my experience.
5. Storage: Store your clean, dry jacket uncompressed on a hanger. Prolonged compression can damage waterproof membranes and insulation.

With proper care, the Microgravity should provide several seasons of reliable performance. I’ve found that quarterly maintenance keeps the jacket performing at nearly new levels despite regular use.

Value Proposition: Is the Microgravity Worth the Investment?

With a retail price typically ranging from $249 to $299 depending on sales and seasonal pricing, the Microgravity Ascentshell occupies a middle ground in the technical shell market. Premium Gore-Tex Pro shells often command $500+, while budget rain jackets can be found for under $100.

To evaluate the value proposition, we need to consider performance relative to price and intended use:

For committed outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable protection across multiple activities, the Microgravity represents an excellent value. It delivers 80-90% of the performance of premium shells at roughly 60% of the price. The versatility across different activities further enhances its value, potentially replacing multiple specialized garments.

For occasional outdoor users, the price may seem steep compared to entry-level options. However, the durability and versatility mean you’ll likely replace it less frequently than budget alternatives, potentially saving money in the long run.

My personal value assessment after two years of use: The Microgravity Ascentshell Jacket delivers exceptional performance-to-price ratio for anyone who regularly encounters challenging weather conditions across multiple outdoor activities.

Comparisons to Competitors and Alternatives

To provide context for the Microgravity’s performance, let’s examine how it compares to some notable alternatives:

Vs. Outdoor Research Foray (Gore-Tex)

The Foray uses Gore-Tex rather than Ascentshell, offering slightly more robust waterproofing in extreme conditions but less breathability during high-output activities. The Foray features TorsoFlo venting (full side zips) instead of traditional pit zips, providing more ventilation options at the cost of additional weight.

For users prioritizing absolute storm protection over breathability, the Foray might be preferable. For those emphasizing breathability during active use, the Microgravity holds the advantage.

Vs. Arc’teryx Beta AR (Gore-Tex Pro)

The Beta AR represents a premium alternative at nearly twice the price. It offers marginally better durability and storm protection in extreme conditions, plus Arc’teryx’s renowned build quality and minimalist aesthetic.

However, in my direct comparison testing, the breathability advantage clearly goes to the Microgravity during high-exertion activities. For most users, the performance differences don’t justify the substantial price premium unless absolute reliability in extreme conditions is the priority.

Vs. Patagonia Triolet (Gore-Tex)

The Triolet targets the alpine climbing and skiing market with a more robust face fabric and ski-specific features like a powder skirt. It offers comparable storm protection but at a weight penalty of several ounces.

The Microgravity provides better breathability and versatility across multiple activities, while the Triolet excels for dedicated winter sports use. If skiing constitutes your primary activity, the Triolet’s specialized features might justify its higher price and weight.

Vs. Black Diamond StormLine Stretch (BD.dry)

The StormLine offers stretch fabric for enhanced mobility at a slightly lower price point. However, its waterproofing doesn’t match the Microgravity in sustained precipitation, and the durability falls short in abrasion resistance.

For fair-weather hikers prioritizing comfort and mobility, the StormLine represents a solid alternative. For those facing serious weather conditions or demanding durability, the Microgravity provides superior performance.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Outdoor enthusiasts increasingly consider the environmental impact and ethical production of their gear. Outdoor Research has made substantial commitments in these areas that influence the Microgravity’s overall value proposition.

The jacket utilizes a PFC-free DWR treatment, avoiding the persistent environmental pollutants found in older waterproofing technologies. The fabrics meet bluesign® criteria, ensuring responsible manufacturing practices that minimize environmental impact and eliminate harmful chemicals.

Outdoor Research has also improved factory working conditions and transparency in their supply chain, though they don’t yet match the leadership position of companies like Patagonia in this area.

For environmentally conscious consumers, the Microgravity represents a responsible choice, though not necessarily an industry-leading one in sustainability. The durability and versatility do contribute to sustainability by reducing the need for multiple specialized garments and extending replacement cycles.

User Testimonials and Expert Opinions

My experience with the Microgravity aligns with the broader consensus among outdoor professionals and enthusiastic users. Here are some perspectives I’ve gathered from colleagues and online communities:

Sarah K., AMGA-certified Mountain Guide: “I’ve used the Microgravity for guiding everything from rainforest hikes to glacier climbs. The breathability makes a noticeable difference during approaches, and clients appreciate that I’m not constantly changing layers. After two seasons of hard use, it still performs like new with basic maintenance.”

Jason T., Backcountry Skier: “Coming from Gore-Tex shells, I was skeptical about Ascentshell, but the breathability difference is substantial during tours. I no longer overheat on ascents, which means I can keep my shell on rather than constantly changing layers as conditions shift. For backcountry skiing specifically, it’s been a game-changer.”

Backpacker Magazine awarded the Microgravity an Editor’s Choice award, noting: “The breathability-to-waterproofness ratio hits a sweet spot that few other hardshells can match, especially at this price point.”

These perspectives reinforce my finding that the Microgravity excels particularly for high-output activities in variable conditions where breathability becomes as crucial as waterproofing.

Purchasing Guide: Where to Find the Microgravity Ascentshell

The Microgravity Ascentshell Jacket is widely available through multiple channels:

Retail Stores

Outdoor specialty retailers like REI, Backcountry, and local outdoor shops typically carry the Microgravity. The advantage of purchasing in-store includes the ability to try different sizes and directly compare with alternatives.

Online Direct

Purchasing directly from the Outdoor Research website ensures you’re getting the latest model and provides access to their excellent warranty service. They frequently offer sales that aren’t available through other retailers.

Discontinued Colors and Previous Seasons

Substantial discounts (often 25-40%) can be found on previous season colors or during end-of-season sales. The core technology remains identical, making these options excellent values for budget-conscious shoppers.

For sizing, the Microgravity runs relatively true to size with enough room for layering. If you’re between sizes, I recommend sizing up to ensure comfortable fit over mid-layers.

Conclusion: Is the Microgravity Ascentshell Right for You?

After extensive testing across diverse environments and activities, the Microgravity Ascentshell has earned a permanent place in my gear arsenal. Its remarkable versatility across multiple outdoor pursuits, excellent breathability during high-output activities, and reliable protection in challenging conditions make it a standout performer in the crowded technical shell market.

The jacket particularly excels for:

• Multi-day backpacking in variable conditions
• Alpine climbing and mountaineering
• Backcountry skiing and snowboarding
• Year-round hiking in regions prone to precipitation
• Travel where packability and versatility matter

The value proposition becomes even more compelling when considering its durability and versatility, potentially replacing multiple activity-specific jackets in your gear collection.

However, no jacket is perfect for every user or scenario. Those primarily engaged in extreme expeditions might benefit from more specialized (and expensive) options. Ultralight enthusiasts might prefer more minimalist shells for emergency use only. And budget-conscious occasional hikers might find adequate performance in less technical rain jackets.

For most serious outdoor enthusiasts who regularly face challenging weather across multiple activities, the Microgravity Ascentshell Jacket represents one of the most balanced combinations of performance, versatility, and value currently available.

Two years and countless adventures later, I’m still impressed by how this jacket continues to exceed expectations—keeping me comfortable and protected whether I’m guiding clients up glaciated volcanoes, exploring rainy temperate rainforests, or simply walking the dog during a Pacific Northwest downpour. In a world of increasingly specialized outdoor gear, the Microgravity’s versatile performance reminds us that sometimes the best tool is one that does almost everything well.