Hyperlite only made 200 of its wildly popular Shell jacket for this short-run release.
Weighing less than a cup of coffee and boasting more strength than pure steel, The Shell from Hyperlite Mountain Gear (HMG) won over dedicated outdoor enthusiasts when it originally launched in 2017.
At the time, it was among the very lightest waterproof-breathable jackets on the market. It took the wünder material, Dyneema, and married it to an eVent membrane.
Today, HMG relaunches this technical weather-defending Shell. But you may want to move quickly; although pricey (keep reading), this jacket will likely go to those with the fastest fingers at the online checkout.
That’s because only 200 of The Shell jackets exist and when they’re gone, there’s no guarantee they’ll be back.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear The Shell
The crux of this piece is the combination of Dyneema Composite Fabrics (DCF) and an eVent waterproof-breathable membrane. Through a marriage of materials — thanks to the nature of Dyneema — the finished product remains on the ultralight side of the outdoor gear spectrum.
Accommodating sizes XS to XL, The Shell ranges in weight from 4.68 to 5.74 ounces. And it packs down to about the size of a softball.
But while its weight competes for the title of lightest, its strength sets it apart from the competition. Rain shells as a whole combat a reputation of being frustratingly delicate. One small tear and they’re effectively useless (until you patch them, of course).
The Shell’s DCF material shines when it comes to durability. Dyneema is lauded for being stronger than steel and extremely abrasion resistant. And The Shell receives these benefits.
Of course, it comes at a price — $549 to be exact. It’s a big ask, but those whose pursuits demand the fewest grams and toughest performance will be hard-pressed to find something better.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear The Shell
- Material: Dyneema Composite Fabric with eVent
- Features:
- Waterproof #5 YKK AquaGuard zippers
- Polartec fleece zipper guard
- 2-way adjustable helmet-compatible hood
- Adjustable waist
- Velcro cuffs
- Packs into its own pocket
- Weight: 4.68 to 5.74 oz. (size: XS-XL)
- Price: $549
- Availability: 200 units only
Learn more and snag one for yourself at Hyperlite Mountain Gear.
