Outdoor Research

MicroGravity Jacket - Men's

Trail-Tested in the High Sierra: Outdoor Research MicroGravity Ascentshell Jacket Review

I wore the Men’s MicroGravity Ascentshell Jacket by Outdoor Research for 19 days on the John Muir Trail, hiking SOBO from Lyell Canyon to Whitney Portal. It was in my pack from start to finish—through wind, potential snow forecasts, high elevation chill, and the chance of mountain rain. Here’s what stood out: Weight-to-Performance Ratio: At just over 14 oz, it’s light enough to justify space in a thru-hiker’s pack, especially when ounces count. I didn’t need it often, but when I did—especially on Whitney summit morning—it delivered. Layered above my puffy, the Ascentshell acted as a critical wind-blocking barrier in sub-freezing temps. Breathability & Comfort: The AscentShell fabric breathes better than many hard shells I’ve worn. It doesn’t feel like a plastic bag. You get protection without overheating—great for active movement in alpine conditions. The jacket also layers well and doesn’t bunch up under a pack. Packability & Versatility: It compresses well and fit seamlessly into my packing system. On a trail like the JMT, where the weather is unpredictable but weight is critical, it strikes a great balance of performance and packability. And while I didn’t get hit with a downpour, I have no doubt the waterproof zippers and solid build would handle it. The Takeaway: The MicroGravity Ascentshell isn’t just another rain jacket—it’s a mountain-ready shell that performs when and where it matters. It may have spent more time in my pack than on my shoulders, but it earned its keep. I’d bring it again on any long-distance trail, especially when weather is uncertain and performance matters. Highly recommend for thru-hikers, alpine trekkers, and serious backpackers looking for a lightweight, breathable shell that won’t quit when conditions change.

Great rain jacket!

This jacket is a nice weight -- not too heavy and good for a variety of conditions and seasons. It went along on a fishing trip in remote Alaska and performed very well in chilly, wet conditions!

sizing runs small for me

it would be perfect if it ran larger like a Parker would appreciate more room as I'm a taller guy 6'3 and with linebacker build it fits snuggly in a few places but overall great jacket

The jacket is a good basic, although nothing is that special about it. The yellow color stains from pack straps.

Seam tape delam

Overall, a decent shell. Runs a bit slim, Im 5'7" 155lbs and a med runs tight across shoulders with little underneath. After washing with a material specific tech wash, the seam tape delaminated in both chest pockets leading to the loss of a pair of sunglasses and nearly my mobile phone . Otherwise, not too bad.....

Solid choice

So far so good! This is actually a warranty replacement for an older version of this jacket where the fabric was delaminating and no longer waterproof. OR always goes above and beyond with their customer care, and so I'm very happy they were able to send me a replacement that so far has been great. OR rocks!

Great Jacket

Jacket has performed beyond expectations! I purchased this jacket to use for downhill Skiing, with the expectation that i would use it in more mild temperatures. I live in the NWT, Canada where temperatures can reach as low as -50C. more often than not i find myself reaching for this jacket (layering during colder temperatures) for most of my winter activities! This jacket has great waterproofing and breathability & very good and breaking the chill from the wind. i would recomend this jacket to anyone who is active in the winter at a range of temperatures as it is very easy to layer up underneath. 10/10

Jacket has held up well, for 5 years, with regular use, size is slightly small for the rating.

Fit for 6’2 255lb

I’m 6’2 and about 255lbs slightly muscular build. I usually wear XL for shirts and sweaters. The XL for the Microgravity AscentShell fit me very well. I have room for a layer underneath but it will be trim with not a lot room left. The arm length is perfect for me! I’m excited to try it out in the wild.

Fantastic jacket

Best rain jacket I've owned, gotten a lot of compliments about it and asking where I purchased it. it's large but that's because it fits over your other gear. The hood is also fantastic and fits over my helmet no problem. The only thing that would make this the perfect jacket is pit zips but honestly it's breathable enough