Sadly, it was also the first time I was severely disappointed by a soft-shell jacket. It happened to be my second day on the job at Outside, and I, a giddy editorial assistant, just received my ...

Soft shell jackets such as the Patagonia Mixmaster ($299; www.patagonia.com) have a lot going for them. They re nearly impervious to wind, shed light rain and snow, breathe well, and offer a much ...