Last spring I scored a good deal on the Outdoor Research Virtuoso Jacket. And I‘ve been wearing this jacket quite a bit since the weather has turned colder. There are plenty of reasons to like this jacket, and I’m happy to share a few with our readers.
First, the Virtuoso offers plenty of warmth. I believe this is the warmest down jacket offered by Outdoor Research. The down in my jacket is supposed to be 650 fill power comprised of 80% down and 20% feathers, so there is a good compromise here between cost and weight. And the Virtuoso has a shock cord type drawstring at the bottom to seal out cold drafts and the zipper extends all the way up the collar to protect the neck.
Next up is the the outer shell of the Outdoor Research Virtuoso, which is a wind and water resistant nylon. At the shoulders and tops of the sleeves are Pertex Endurance for extra weather proofing. The collar is covered with a brushed tricot for a cozy feel and a storm flap covers the back of the zipper.
Outdoor Research VirtuosoOutdoor Research has also put plenty of pockets on the Virtuoso. Two zippered hand pockets and a zippered chest pocket on the left are on the outside. Inside is a smaller zippered pocket on the right chest and a huge mesh pocket on the lower left.
When it is time for bed, you can stuff the Virtuoso into the right hand warmer pocket to make a really good sized pillow. One side of the pocket is lined with the same brushed fabric as the collar of the jacket. I have used this pillow while bikepacking and can definitely say that the Outdoor Research Virtuoso makes a super pillow. I have other camp pillows that I really like, but I will have no problem using the jacket this way if needed.
My last and maybe most favorite feature of the Outdoor Research Virtuoso is simply the luxurious feel of the jacket. I really like wearing it. The thick, puffy, lightweight down feels so good to wear. Perhaps all down jackets have this quality, but the Virtuoso definitely does the trick for me.
Of course, the Outdoor Research Virtuoso comes is a variety of colors in both men‘s and women‘s sizes. The jacket is available with and without a hood. My jacket does not have the hood. Sizing is a bit large on the jacket. This allows for multiple layers of clothing to be worn under the virtuoso. I am 6‘ 2” and weigh in at 215 or so. The extra-large size is recommended for someone with my chest size. There is plenty of room and I could have perhaps gone with the large.
The Outdoor Research Virtuoso cost me $82.47 at Sierra Trading Post. My jacket may be last year‘s model or something, but I could not beat the price. The Virtuoso Hoody is listed on the Outdoor Research website at an MSRP of $285.00. Check this great piece of gear here on the Outdoor Research website.
– Mark