Cotopaxi Palmas Windshell Active Jacket
Frontal view of the Cotopaxi Palmas jacket, Horsetheif Butte, Oregon. Photo courtesy of Nathan Kaul
Quick Overview
Cotopaxi’s Palmas Windshell Active Jacket ($100) is an ultra-light and ultra-packable jacket that prevents light precipitation from dampening your outdoor activities. The jacket is breathable and made from 100% recycled material. It has an adjustable hood, two external zippered pockets and an inner stuff sack pocket.
The external pockets come with zippers for safely storing essentials like car keys! Photo courtesy of Nathan Kaul
First Impression
Holy moly is this jacket incredibly lightweight. As a mountaineer, I really value anything functional and lightweight because every ounce adds up when packing for a climb or backpacking trip.
Right away I had my eye on the Sahara color combination. It’s a great break from the standard colors I often come across. Some reviewers mentioned the colors were too bright compared to the color shown on the website. I personally like the colors, but would describe the Sahara colors as a mustard yellow, coral, and very light pink. All of which I enjoy and consider to be a winning color combo.
The material appears to be well made and snag resistant—a must for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors.
Photo courtesy of Nathan Kaul
Performance
I wore this jacket while hiking one of my favorite spring trails in the Pacific Northwest when it was 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Initially, it was too warm for this jacket, given the lack of wind. As soon as the sun started to go down and a breeze picked up, this jacket hit the sweet spot. I wasn’t too hot or too cold. Adding a long sleeve top underneath this jacket, I discovered can add additional protection against the elements.
I also wore this jacket during a few climbing sessions at Smith Rock. It was a balmy 85+ degrees Fahrenheit with no wind. I try to avoid sunburn whenever possible. I loved the protection I got with just the jacket and a layer of sunscreen underneath.
All in all, this jacket performed well in warm weather and light wind conditions. I didn’t get the chance to test it in light precipitation.
How Did The Jacket Fit?
I’m 5’3” and consistently wear an XS. I found this jacket to be pretty accurate with sizing.
The jacket thumb loops keep the sleeves from riding up. Photo courtesy of Nathan Kaul
Built in hood with a single-pull adjustment for those unexpected misty days.
An elastic hood, hem, and cuffs to keep the wind out.
Back vent to keep you cool when you find yourself working up a sweat.
Elastic thumb loops to keep your sleeves in place and the chill out.
Material
This jacket is made from 100% recycled polyester material. I appreciate companies that use recycled materials in their products. Cotopaxi’s clothing definitely aligns with their mission to use the power of business as a force for social, environmental, and economic good!
My Overall Impression
I really think Cotopaxi does a great job with designing stylish, functional and ethically made outdoor products. I personally love the color scheme. The mustard yellow is a fun vintage color while the coral and pastel pink provide super feminine touches and a modern look. I love how much thought and consideration goes into Cotopaxi color blocks. I felt good wearing this jacket and pretty darn stylish! The Palmas Active Windshell Jacket will protect you from light wind, rain and sun so if you’re looking for a lightweight jacket make sure you check this one out!
A girl gets thirsty. But isn’t this color pattern the best? It literally complements every skin tone! Photo courtesy of Nathan Kaul
I discovered that, here in the Pacific Northwest, the jacket is best for early morning or evening on a hot summer day—when it’s too warm for a midweight layer or sweater but cool enough for a cover-up. I get cold easily so I love that I now have a stylish jacket to keep me insulated. I personally enjoyed wearing it out in the sun and I got quite a few compliments!