Mountain Hardwear Boundary Ridge GTX 3L Jacket

Pros:

The Mountain Hardwear Boundary Ridge GORE-TEX Jacket is built to withstand more than the elements. In addition to snow storms and face shots, this shell can handle dense willows, crampon spikes, ice ax adzes, and spilled après beers. Hands down, this was the toughest shell of the test.

The waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX 3L fabric is durable on its own, but Mountain Hardwear bolstered the Boundary Ridge Shell with reinforced sections at critical zones along the torso, arms, and hood. The resulting shell is borderline bombproof and effective in everything but the most obscenely inclement climes.  MH maintained that “tough” theme throughout the build of the Boundary Ridge, equipping the shell with a burly powder skirt, oversized zippers, ample pocket space, and a heavy-duty hood. 

Cons:

As is to be expected, extreme durability comes at the cost of added weight. One of the heavier shells we tested, the Boundary Ridge is not ideal for those skiers and riders who spend most of their time outside of the resort.

Favorite Feature:

If you do hit the backcountry or duck out of a sidecountry gate, the chest pockets are sizeable enough to stash climbing skins.

Tester Comment:

“Though not my first choice for backcountry missions due to the weight, this is my top pick for longevity. Given the reinforced fabric and brawny build, I expect this jacket to outlast many of the other shells that I’ve tested.”

Bottom Line:

For skiers and riders who live for bottomless days at the resort—and occasionally tour to get the goods—this heavyweight shell is reliable, durable, and seriously waterproof.