Review of Mountain Hardwear Trancendence Trifecta Jacket
By Matt Smith with Guest Contributor Patti Smith

The Mountain Hardwear Trancendence Trifecta Jacket is a fully functional, technical, all purpose winter parka. The Trifecta name refers to Mountain Hardwear's 3 in 1 systems which allows different insulative layers to be used interchangably with difference shells. This is nothing new, and most of the major players have been doing it for years, including Mountain Hardwear. However, there is a renewed effort to emphasize the benefit of such 3 in 1 systems across the industry.

The Trancendence has all of the expected features, including pit zips, fleece lined pockets, and a microfleece lined collar. These have come to be expected, and are no surprise in a jacket of this quality. The main zipper is not waterproof, but is protected by a double flap with a velco closure. This is very effective for blocking out the wind, and give the jacket a clean, stylish look.

Our female tester found the jacket was cut generously around the bust, and hips; which makes the jacket move more fluidly with the body, rather than bunching or binding when the torso twists. She noted the cuffs on the removable liner are soft and comfortable against the wrist, even with repetitive actions like cross country skiing. The liner is a perfect light jacket for late fall or early spring days when the air is brisk, but the weather is bright.

I noted a new feature on the Trancendence I have not seen before, and like a lot. The volume reducer on the hood is integrated with the cinch for the face, so that with a single pull, the entire hood will tighten, balanced on your head, with or without a helmet. Kudos Mountain Hardware for improving on the norm! As I have noticed on other jackets debuting this year, the Trancendence features soft, laminated cuff closures which are much less obtrusive than the recent rubber or soft plastic tabs.

Summary: The Trancendence Trifecta is a great all sport winter jacket. There are enough technical features for any mountaineer, with plenty of consideration for the active lifestyle crowd. The Proprietary Mountain Hardware Conduit waterproof breatheable fabric help keep this jacket reasonably priced for those of us on a budget. The Trancendence Trifecta can be found for about $285.

A special thanks to the folks at Alta Ski area who set us up to test the Mountain Hardwear Transcendence Trifecta on site. You can learn more about Alta Ski Area and our other industry partners on our Partners Page.

For more information contact:
Mountain Hardwear
www.mountainhardwear.com
4911 Central Avenue
Richmond, California 94804
510-559-6700

Matt Smith is the canyoneering specialist at GearReview.com