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Mountain Hardwear Synchro Jacket

Men's Clothing > Jackets & VestsRated: ***** by 128 reviews. Also available for: Women

USOutdoor.com

In 1993, a small group of people who had weathered years in the outdoor industry decided to get together and form Mountain Hardwear. In addition to working in the outdoor industry, the Mountain Hardwear founders were avid outdoors people themselves Mountain Hardwear has always focused on bringing radical thinking to the gear they make. That's why they have a section in our website that talks about the innovation they've built into their products

Superior weather resistance in a sleek technical package. Conduit™ Soft Shell fabric holds wind and water on the outside and warmth on the inside.

Features:

  • AXF Super DWR finish repels water 5 times longer than standard DWRs
  • Drawcords at neck and hem seal in warmth
  • Enhanced DWR finish repels water, and is five times more durable than conventional DWR treatments
  • Exterior-taped, water-resistant seams seal out the elements
  • Interior zip pocket stores ID, keys, other small essentials
  • Laminated Velcro® cuff tabs for quick fit adjustments
  • Welded handwarmer pockets with water-resistant zips

Zappos.com (2009)

Keep the harsh elements on the outside where they belong. Let the Mountain Hardwear Synchro Jacket 09 keep you warm and comfortable on the inside.
Windproof and breathable.
Full zip closure for easy on and off.
Hook and loop cuffs to keep the warmth in.
Taped sealed seams to keep moisture out.
Drawcord at hemline for that perfect fit.
Zippered handwarmer pockets for storage.
Zippered chest pocket for additional storage.
Interior zippered pocket for smaller items.
Mountain Hardwear logo at left chest and back neckline.
Al Fresco Dobby AXF
Contains a Conduit membrane laminate with high waterproofness and breathability. Also has an enhanced DWR treatment that will last up to 100 home washes.
Shell: 100% nylon.
Lining: 100% polyester.
Machine wash cold and tumble dry low to reactivate the DWR finish.
Product measurements were taken using size MD. Please note that measurements may vary by size.

Mountain Gear

Put all your activities onto the same schedule when you pull on the Synchro Jacket from Mountain Hardwear. Waterproof, breatheable, and warm enough to be a midlayer or shell, the Synchro is suited for day hikes or along alpine trips. Put it on and wonder at the surprising amount of stretch in the durable, abrasion-resistant nylon and when precip rolls in, revel in the exterior taped, water-resistant seams. Specifications based on size Large.

Features:

  • Cinch your jacket close in breezy conditions with single-handed hem drawcords
  • Prevent even the smallest of leaks thanks to exterior taped, water-resistant seams
  • Seal out wetness without sealing in moisture in DWR-treated Conduit laminate and stretchy Synchro ST Soft Shell
  • Your cell phone and trail maps are safe in welded hand, arm and chest pockets with water-resistant zips; interior zip pocket

Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)

The Mountain Hardwear® Synchro Jacket is a sleek, technical soft shell with an embedded waterproof layer between its abrasion-resistant exterior and its warm microfleece lining. Great stretch for climbing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or trekking.

Features:

  • Conduit™ soft shell is waterproof breathable for protection from wind, rain, and snow
  • Draw cord at neck seals in warmth
  • Exterior taped, water-resistant seams
  • Full-length front zipper; storm flap inside and out
  • Hidden Power Stretch® cuffs
  • Interior zip pocket
  • Lining is superbrushed tricot for added warmth, softness, and moisture management
  • One-handed hem draw cords are easy to adjust
  • Synchro SBT outer fabric is durable, abrasion-resistant, and stretchable nylon
  • Welded pockets with watertight zips: two hand, one arm, one chest

O2GearShop.com (Fall 2009)

Superior weather resistance in a sleek technical package. Conduit™ Soft Shell fabric holds wind and water on the outside and warmth on the inside.

Features:

  • AXF Super DWR finish repels water 5 times longer than standard DWRs
  • Body Synchro SBT AXFTM
  • Drawcords at neck and hem seal in warmth
  • Enhanced DWR finish repels water, and is five times more durable than conventional DWR treatments
  • Exterior-taped, water-resistant seams seal out the elements
  • Interior zip pocket stores ID, keys, other small essentials
  • Laminate ConduitTM Soft Shell
  • Laminated Velcro® cuff tabs for quick fit adjustments
  • Usage Ice / Alpine Climbing / Snowsports
  • Weight 1 lbs, 4 oz / 557.00 g
  • Welded handwarmer pockets with water-resistant zips

This description was also provided by: O2GearShop.com (Fall 2008)


REI

What would you say to a soft-shell jacket that is warm, soft, breathable, stretchy, durable and weatherproof to boot? Say hello to the Mountain Hardwear Synchro Jacket!

  • Synchro SBT AXF™ soft-shell 3-layer Conduit™ laminate features high waterproofness and breathability; plus, mechanical stretch and a soft hand make it comfortable
  • Flexible, taped exterior seams ensure highly water-resistant protection
  • Interior features a soft, high-loft brushed tricot backing
  • Enhanced Durable Water Repellent treatment lasts up to 100 home launderings
  • Collar and hem's 1-hand-adjustable drawcords seal in warmth; collar has soft microfleece lining
  • Full-length front zipper has stormflaps inside and out for extreme protection
  • Welded hand pockets feature water-resistant zippers; features an interior security pocket


Campsaver.com

Mountain Hardwear's Synchro Jacket provides superior weather resistance in a sleek technical package. Conduit Soft Shell fabric holds wind and water on the outside and warmth on the inside.

Features:

  • AXF Super DWR finish repels water 5 times longer than standard DWRs
  • Drawcords at neck and hem seal in warmth
  • Enhanced DWR finish repels water, and is five times more durable than conventional DWR treatments
  • Exterior-taped, water-resistant seams seal out the elements
  • Interior zip pocket stores ID, keys, other small essentials
  • Laminated Velcro® cuff tabs for quick fit adjustments
  • Welded handwarmer pockets with water-resistant zips

Oregon Mountain Community

The Mountain Hardwear Synchro Jacket is superior weather resistance in a sleek, technical package. Conduit™ Soft Shell laminate holds wind and water on the outside and warmth on the inside. Weather protective exterior taping and a fleece inner deliver performance and style.

Features:

  • Drawcord at neck
  • Drawcord at neck
  • Exterior taped, water-resistant seams
  • Exterior-taped, water-resistant seams
  • Interior zip pocket
  • Interior zip pocket
  • New design
  • New tape
  • One-handed hem cords
  • One-handed hem drawcords
  • Welded arm pocket with water-resistant zip
  • Welded hand pockets with water-resistant zips
  • Welded hand pockets with water-resistant zips

Altrec

Superior weather resistance in a sleek, technical package. The Conduit™ Soft Shell laminate of the Men's Synchro Jacket holds wind and water on the outside and warmth on the inside. Weather protective exterior taping and a fleece inner deliver performance and style.

Features:

  • Drawcord at neck
  • Exterior taped, water-resistant seams
  • Hidden PowerStretch cuff
  • Interior zip pocket
  • Material: Shell - Synchro SBT
  • Micro-chamois lined chin guard
  • One handed hem drawcords
  • Welded arm pocket with water-resistant zip
  • Welded chest pocket with water-resistant zip
  • Welded hand pockets with water-resistant zips

SummitHut.com

Always on the cutting edge, Mountain Hardwear's Synchro Jacket has superior weather resistance in a sleek, technical package. Conduit Soft Shell laminate holds wind and water on the outside and warmth on the inside. Weather protective exterior taping and a fleece inner deliver performance and style.

Features:

  • Conduit™ Soft Shell helps protect you from wind and water on the slopes and on the mountain
  • Drawcord at neck
  • Exterior-taped, water-resistant seams
  • Interior zip pocket
  • One-handed hem drawcords
  • Welded hand pockets with water-resistant zippers

Rock/Creek Outfitters (2008)

Free MHW Wicked Lite Tee! Get a Free Wicked Lite Tee when you purchase $100 of MHW Gear. Click here for details

Features:

  • Drawcord at neck
  • Exterior taped, water-resistant seams
  • Interior zip pocket
  • One handed hem drawcords
  • Welded arm pocket with water-resistant zip
  • Welded hand pockets with water-resistant zips

Altrec Outlet

Superior weather resistance in a sleek technical package.  Conduit Soft Shell laminate holds wind and water on the outside and warmth on the inside.

Features:

  • Center Back Length:27"R0oz/557g
  • Conduit Softshell waterproof laminate
  • Synchro SBT
  • Usage:Ice / Alpine Climbing / Snowsports
  • Welded hand pockets with water-resistant zips

Moosejaw

No description provided.

Average weight:20 ounces
Back length:27 inches
Body Materials:Synchro SBT - 100% 40D False Twisted Nylon 66 Twill allowing durability, abrasion resistance and mechanical stretch. 176 x 124 thread count and 3-layer Conduit™ with high breathability and waterproofness and backed with a high loft Super Brushed Tricot. Weight: 3.1 oz/yd.
Dwr:Yes
External Pockets:4
Gender:Men's
Hood:None
Internal Pockets:1
Laminate Materials:Conduit™ Soft Shell
Liner fabric:polyester
Lining:Polyester
Primary Use:Alpine/Ascent
Shell fabric:nylon with DWR
Ventilation:No
Waterproof:No
Waterproof Material:Conduit™ waterproof/breathable
Waterproofing:3-layer Conduit breathable laminate
Weather Conditions:Wind
Weight:1 lbs, 3 oz / 557.00 g
Windproof:Yes

View other products from Mountain Hardwear classified in Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests.

View all products from Mountain Hardwear.
View other products classified in Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests.

Sometimes, we can't be sure that the product is the same across the stores that offer its, so you may find the same product listed more then once on GearBuyer.com, we these list highly similar products below.

Mountain Hardwear Synchro Ski JacketMountain Hardwear Synchro Ski Jacket$168.95 - $280.00
Mountain Hardwear Synchro PantMountain Hardwear Synchro Pant$102.95 - $195.00
Mountain Hardwear Synchro Softshell JacketMountain Hardwear Synchro Softshell Jacket$104.47 - $194.95
Mountain Hardwear Synchro Softshell Ski JacketMountain Hardwear Synchro Softshell Ski Jacket$279.95

Sometimes brands make complementary products for the opposite gender that coordinate with this product, we also try to show these products below.

Mountain Hardwear Synchro JacketMountain Hardwear Synchro Jacket - Women's$94.98 - $195.00
Mountain Hardwear Synchro Jacket - Spring 09Mountain Hardwear Synchro Jacket - Spring 09 - Women's$190.00
Mountain Hardwear Synchro Ski JacketMountain Hardwear Synchro Ski Jacket - Women's$109.98 - $280.00
Mountain Hardwear Synchro PantMountain Hardwear Synchro Pant - Women's$84.97 - $197.00

These are products that have been indicated being comparable to this product:

Mountain Hardwear Advance Lightweight Boot Top TightMountain Hardwear Advance Lightweight Boot Top Tight
Men's Clothing > Fleece & Base Layers
$37.95 - $38.00
Mountain Hardwear Winter Wander Pant - LongMountain Hardwear Winter Wander Pant - Long
Men's Clothing > Pants
$89.00 - $90.00

Option Availability:

Use this chart to find which retailer offers this product in the size, color or other options that you desire. Click on the price to purchase.

ColorSize
SmallMediumLargeExtra LargeExtra Extra Large
Espresso
Espresso
114.00114.00124.95114.00124.95159.99189.95114.00
Rust
Rust
190.00    
Tiger
Tiger
124.95129.982 More...129.98189.953 More...124.95129.984 More...124.95129.983 More...194.95195.00197.00
Pesto
Pesto
194.95195.00195.00168.95194.953 More...168.95194.953 More...194.95194.952 More...194.95195.00195.00
Blue Ice
Blue Ice
155.99194.953 More...155.99168.955 More...155.99168.955 More...155.99194.954 More...155.99194.952 More...
True Blue
True Blue
129.98159.99129.98129.98159.99120.50129.98159.99120.50129.98
Classic Navy
Classic Navy
124.95190.00    
Lapis Blue
Lapis Blue
190.00    
Black
Black
155.99159.997 More...155.99164.998 More...124.95155.997 More...124.95155.999 More...155.99164.996 More...
Grill
Grill
155.99164.992 More...155.99164.996 More...155.99164.996 More...155.99164.995 More...155.99164.994 More...
Black 08116.97116.97116.97 116.97
Lava
Lava
114.00124.95114.00124.95114.00124.95159.99114.00114.00124.95
Lava Red
Lava Red
190.00190.00 190.00 

Legend

  •     - SummitHut.com
  •     - Zappos.com (2009)
  •     - O2GearShop.com (Fall 2008)
  •     - O2GearShop.com (Fall 2009)
  •     - Campsaver.com
  •     - Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
  •     - Oregon Mountain Community
  •     - REI
  •     - Moosejaw
  •     - USOutdoor.com
  •     - Rock/Creek Outfitters (2008)
  •     - Mountain Gear
  •     - Altrec Outlet
  •     - Altrec

Mountain Hardwear Synchro Jacket Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****73
****9
***2
**0
*0
To see how this product compares to others view Men's Jacket Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

Designed for ice climbing, but also great for skiing.

Rating:*****
For on-piste skiing, The Mountain Hardwear Synchro jacket is the best shell that I have ever used. I also own the North Face Mountain Light (2-layer Gore-Tex, circa '90s) and Paclite (Gore-Tex Paclite) shell jackets, and a few DWR-coated "water-repellent" shell jackets. Aesthetically, the MH Synchro is a very good-looking jacket and flatters the wearer. One part of this is the fact that the stretchy softshell material allows the jacket to be cut to a more fitted profile without restricting range-of-motion. Another part of this is the matte and somewhat neoprene-ish nature of the "sharkskin" fabric, which isn't anywhere as crinkly on the wearer as the nylon-faced Gore-Tex. (The look of hardshell "crinklyness" is inherent due to the motion-permissive cut of the non-stretch fabric, and sometimes exacerbated by shiny nylon face fabrics.) Waterwise, the MH Synchro's Conduit membrane is indeed windproof and waterproof. That said, the matte "sharkskin" face fabric seems less water-repellent than the shiny nylon face fabrics of Gore-Tex shells, so treatment with water-repellent (Nikwax TX.Direct) is more important. I personally treat mine upon every washing. The MH Synchro's Conduit membrane does not seem to be quite as breathable overall as Gore-Tex, but that works quite fine for the cold and dry environments that the Synchro was designed for. (FYI, the Synchro jacket & pants were conceived as an ice-climbing outfit, hence the lack of a hood in the original jacket. Ice climbers wear helmets, making a hood much less critical.) Even when aerobic exertion (uphill skiing) produced overheating, any dampness was quickly dispersed from the interior. The Synchro jacket is also equipped with two front-facing vent pockets that are very easy to use single-handedly, even with a pack on. That said, large items (like a balaclava) in the vent pockets will defeat the venting. Performance-wise (on-piste skiing), the more fitted profile cuts cleaner through the wind with less fabric movement (flapping, waving). This fitted profile also keeps me warmer than the looser-cut hardshells, since there is less "pumping" of the trapped air between the shell and the insulating layer as I move. That said, your mileage may vary on this, since I'm a regular rock climber (pretty close to the Synchro's target audience/physique) and use fitted/semi-fitted layers. The Synchro is warm for me because it fits me perfectly. Aside from the large vent pockets, the MH Synchro jacket has a small Napolean pocket that's perfect for a cellphone, and a smaller bicep pocket that's difficult to access, for which I store cash and a few cards (won't fit anything but the most minimal of wallets). The MH Synchro jacket has a non-elastic collar-cinch and a thin, elastic hem-cinch. I can understand the non-elastic collar-cinch from an ice-climbing perspective (a just-right fit at the expense of comfort for maximal shielding from the constant fall of ice chips), but if there was anything I would improve on this jacket, it'd be a burlier elastic hem-cinch. I positively love my MH Synchro jacket for skiing (and it probably works very well for ice climbing, not that I’ve done that yet). Whether you might love a Synchro jacket will probably depend upon how close you are to Mountain Hardwear’s original conceived usage and target audience. For more aerobic activities and/or in more humid conditions and/or in temperatures that might vary away from cold/snowy/icy, I would probably opt to use one of my Gore-Tex hardshells.
DtEW at Altrec Outlet on 01/24/2007

Great Jacket!

Rating:*****
I have owned this jacket for about 5 years. I got it right before going to spend a semester in Ireland for a Study Abroad program in college. As you may know, it rains a lot in Ireland (not torrential downpours, but a light rain basically every day). In addition to the rain it is fairly cold there.

The jacket performed wonderfully. It is waterproof and windproof and surprisingly warm for how thin it is. I ended up wearing it some pretty nasty conditions (cold, wet, and windy) and always felt pretty good.

There are plenty of pockets stashed all over the jacket.

In the light cons/controversial column:
1.) As the description says, this is a "technical" jacket. ie: it's quite fitted. It doesn't leave a lot of room underneath for layering. It is not designed for a trip through the arctic. In addition it doesn't extend down past your waist either. This may not be a con for you, it certainly isn't for me.
2.) It has no hood.
3.) It's fairly "euro" looking. It looks "technical" like a piece of futuristic military/spy gear. I really like, you may not.
4.) The outside material under the armpits has begun to pill up a bit due to rubbing against itself over time. The pilling isn't too bad however and it isn't noticeable since it is hidden in the armpit of the jacket.

Overall this is a really great jacket and it has held up well for the 5 years I've owned it.

Sean
begleysm at REI on 10/05/2009

The Qwon of Soft Shells

Rating:*****
I was all set to purchase MHW's Alchemy jacket with the Gore Windstopper, but I found it too stiff and it isn't completely waterproof. It is apparently only water resistant. I found the softshell material too stiff, but that is the tradeoff with the Windstopper material. I tried the Synchro on and was taken with it instead. It is warm, is sealed with taped seams, and the Conduit materials is far more supple than the Alchemy's Windstopper material. Plus, the Conduit is less expensive so you same some $$$ for what I think is a superior waterproof softshell. I have read a lot of a reviews on both the Alchemy and the Synchro that say both styles run small. I definitely agree with that. I am average build 6' 1" 185 lbs and normally wear a L in MHW's Exposure II hardshell. But I had to go up to an XL in the Synchro to feel comfortable and also leave myself with the option to layer underneath with another light fleece. If you can get to a retailer to try either the Alchemy or the Synchro, I recommend going so first. Both jackets have a different feel, so leave it up to your personal taste. Also, the Synchro works as a great layer underneath a regular hardshell. With 2 layers of Conduit it is tough to go wrong. I also have a MHW Subzero down vest and love it too. Hopefully, the folks at MHW will keep the quality products coming for a long time to come!
Anonymous at Altrec Outlet on 12/02/2005

Outstanding jacket

Rating:*****
I took the synchro to Patagonia, Argentina. Weather ranged from 80 degrees farenheit to 30 degrees farenheit with 50 knot winds. This lightweight jacket took very little space to pack. The oversized side pockets open up to vent the jacket if you begin to overheat. It was highly water resistent in hard blowing rain. The base and neck have cinch tabs that work well to keep out the weather. The cuffs do not have cinch tabs, but the sleeves' inner layer has elastic to provide a somewhat snug fit. In cold weather it needs layers to keep you warm, but a wicking t-shirt and/or a light arcteryx sweater met all of my needs. Construction seems to be top quality with the seams holding up completely. The dark blue color did not show dirt. The inner polyester lining has a a comfortable feel if wearing a t-shirt underneath. It does have approximately an inch square Mountain Hardware trademark "bolt" on the right chest which makes it stand out, but should not be a factor in the purchase. I think this jacket should serve anyone's needs during active pursuits from weather of many ranges depending on additional layering.
Anonymous at Altrec Outlet on 02/24/2006

Overall, a terrific jacket!

Rating:*****
This jacket does exactly what is says it will do. I have owned it for two weeks now (in Boston winter weather) and have had a chance to use it in day to day use (no ice or climbing or extreme activities). It repels water well, and seems to breathe and keep out the wind. There are a few little nit picks I have. The zippers are a little difficult to use (probably because they are well sealed), there is a pull string with a plastic clip at the back of your neck to pull the collar tight, and there is no hood. Also, the lining is a little thin(under 50 degrees, you really need another warm layer underneath, especially if you are not doing anything super physical). In its defense(and the reason I rated it 5 stars), it is exactly as described on Altrec's site, an awesome outer layer, that protects you from wind and the elements, while letting you move easily.
Peter at Altrec Outlet on 01/23/2007

Great mid layer

Rating:****
I love my MHW Synchro jacket. I understand the comments about the torso being a bit short, however as I use mine primarily as a mid layer, underneath a shell, the fit and length is perfect. Jacket packs down small, has a LOT of warmth for its size and thinnes, and works great as a mid layer. I also like the form fit, but if you've got a belly you might not.

After two hard seasons of winter mountaineering in the Whites that jacket still looks brand-new -- a nice bonus. Wears well and looks nice for casual use, too. Also works EXTREMELY well as a running jacket, due to the form fit, water/wind proofness, and stretch nature of the material.

I particularly like the collar drawcord, the soft material of the collar, and the stretch wrist cuffs. For my use I do wish it had pit zips, though.
Brian at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 10/07/2007

Greatest Jacket I've Ever Owned

Rating:*****
I've owned Arcteryx (most expensive brand in the world, big waste of money), North Face, Marmot, REI, Columbia and many others, but Mountain Hardwear is by far the highest quality clothing company I've had the pleasure of wearing. This is my second jacket by them and it doesn't disappoint. I'm 5'7", 148 lbs., athletic build and a SMALL fit as if the jacket was custom made for me. Very high quality materials. You notice as soon as you put it on the first time. Blocks the wind and water very well. The zippers are like nothing I've ever seen, very water tight. It's as if a team of NASA scientists made the perfect jacket. Great by itself for above freezing weather. Layer underneath for when it gets really cold. I think everyone should have the Syncro in their collection.
Aaron at Rock/Creek Outfitters (2008) on 11/13/2008

Good jacket overall

Rating:*****
This jacket is light in weight and it looks great, the cutting fit me great and the fleece inner cuff is a great feature. This jaket is not warm. I wore it in mid 30F days with overcast and nights, this jacket will not warm you if you only have a t-shirt under it, but this jacket will not freeze you. I would this this jacket would run small for American sizes, but if you're a normal Asian size, i would say order your size. The neck piece is a little larger that i like and the fleece in there is almost useless, but it does block out the wind. I would have give this jacket a 4 star if i had paid full price, but since i ordered it on sale, i gave it a 5 star.
Anonymous at Altrec Outlet on 03/05/2006

Best Jacket I own

Rating:*****
Actually, I own two. I had one in red, and love(d) it so much, that I bought a second in tiger when I saw it off season, and on sale. This jacket is warm, but breathable, sheds snow and light rain, and fits loosely, allowing a layer of insulation underneath. This is not an insulated jacket, so that last detail is important. Despite that, it is the one jacket I ALWAYS grab for when packing for weather. I also own a down MH jacket, for when the mercury really drops, but this jacket comes out earlier in the season, and stays on the hook right through May. This is a no compromise, superb jacket that I HIGHLY recommend, and would unquestionably buy again! Oh, right, I did...
C.F. Hayback at Altrec on 11/08/2009

My favorite jacket

Rating:*****
This is by far my favorite jacket. I bought this jacket 2 years looking for a waterproof shell that looked good and i could wear in early fall and mid spring. This jacket far exceeded my expectations. As soon as it gets 60 or below this is the first jacket out of my closet, with a light vest its excellent for temps from 30 to 40 degrees and when temps drop under that, a fleece jacket will keep you more than warm. I wear this jacket every time i go outside now with the exception of snowboarding (i dont want to get it dirty or torn, though i dont think it really would). Bottom line: if you want an excellent waterproof versatile jacket look no further.
outdoor guy at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 10/26/2008

Neutral Reviews:

At least the recipient is pleased...

Rating:***
Bought as a gift & was expecting something a bit heavier. Now it's just another thin jacket for spring / autumn. I could have gotten a multi-layer parka for just a little bit more money.
Rebecca at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 12/31/2008

Love price,material, may be too short

Rating:***
For an XXL with nice long arms, why is the body so short?
mike the sailor at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 01/04/2009