Review: Outdoor Vitals Nebo Windbreaker
The Nebo windbreaker is the layer I didn’t know I needed, providing lightweight protection while remaining highly breathable for staying warm while hiking without overheating.
No matter the time of year, I often need a light layer to keep from being chilled in the wind. Instead of putting on an insulated jacket to warm up, then need to take it off a few minutes later, the Nebo provides light warmth with breathability so I can keep hiking.
Features
Wind protection: the Nebo effectively blocks wind to remove wind chill, which is the main feature of a windbreaker layer.
Ultralight and packable: At only 4 ounces, the Nebo packs down small and doesn’t take up much space in your pack.
Pockets: The minimalist design of the Nebo doesn’t include hand pockets, but I find that I don’t use them on other jackets when hiking since the backpack’s hip belt would make them inaccessible. It does have a large chest pocket that can easily hold larger smartphones or trail snacks.
Fabric: Constructed of a single layer of 20 denier ripstop nylon with a DWR finish for water resistance, the feel of the Nebo is softer than other windbreakers and doesn’t feel slick like plastic.
Fit: The Nebo is offered in men’s sizing, and I’m wearing a small. As a shorter person at 5’1″, it’s long on me but I like the extra coverage. The hem features an adjustable drawcord for tightening as needed.
Elasticized hood and sleeve cuffs: I prefer simplicity in a layer, and the elastic cuffs on the sleeves work better for me than other types of closures that can be fiddly. And while the hood isn’t adjustable, I find that the elastic keeps it in place when worn over a brimmed hat.
Overall, I’m surprised at how versatile a layer like this can be and I’ll be adding it to my pack from now on.
About Outdoor Vitals
Outdoor Vitals is a small cottage-industry company based in Utah. Instead of selling their merchandise in traditional retail outlets, they use direct-to-consumer sales to make their gear more affordable.
Disclosure: this item was donated for the purpose of a review.