Omni-Tech 2.5 15D / Weight: 237g / Venting chest pockets / Two-way stretch fabric / Micro-taped seams
Contact: Columbia 00800 4378 7833 or www.columbia.com

Despite the hood, Columbia’s superlight Faster and Lighter Shell weighs a mere 3g more than the lightest on test. Micro-taped seams and minimal features account for most of this.
A drawcord tames the hem, and single-hand hood-pull controls the top end. Mesh-lined chest pockets vent the core. Both breathability and waterproof performance are good out of the box but we have reservations about its longevity, particularly with the zips, having pulled ours apart a number of times. Despite performing well, the Columbia just felt a little fragile for trail abuse.

MBR RATING: 7/10