Rugged, good-looking shell jacket - Kuhl Kollusion Jacket - Mens

I guess I'm a little amused that, after decades of tinkering with high-tech fabrics and design, we're back to using updated versions of oilskins--fabric impregnated with wax and oil to make it tougher and weather-resistant. It's a good move, though, producing rugged, breathable garments that are easier to maintain and repair than their plastic competition. The Kuhl Kollusion is a really nice example, with a lightweight, waxed poly-cotton fabric that can be made close to fully waterproof by rubbing on more wax and melting it in with a heat gun (or dryer, or hair dryer...). It does need a little TLC from time to time, but so does everything, really. Fit-wise, I find it slim, but not silly. I'm 5' 10", 170 pounds, with a 40-inch chest and a 32-inch waist, and the medium fits me well with room for moderate layering. I'd prefer a drawstring waist to seal out drafts and at least one internal pocket, but I found those easy enough to add myself (did it in one morning with materials lying around the house). I definitely recommend the garment.