It seems fitting to write this review of the Canada Goose Moraine Shell on National Polar Bear Day. Canada Goose is largely known for their high quality down outerwear. Gear for arctic expeditions. Gear for the highly committed. Gear for the cold, from a country where cold weather is a part of their national identity. This year they released their new line of technical shells. I’ve been testing the women’s Moraine Shell during the last few months and over and over I am asked, “Canada Goose makes shells?” Yes. They do. And they are every bit as awesome as we should expect them to be.
Canada Goose Moraine Shell
Tested in: Everything. From spring skiing conditions, cold rain, and driving wind/snow in the single digits.
Cost: $675.00
Best Use: Skiing, Mountaineering, Photographers
Selling Points: This is FIRST technical shell I’ve owned that really is breathable. Sure, all hard shells claim to breath, but most do not. The Moraine Shell has yet to let me down. In warm weather, I do not sweat up inside, in cold weather it provides front line protection from the wind and the cold.
I ordered this shell a size big so I could layer under it as necessary for really cold weather. The fit is loose and comfortable. And the four-way stretch of the super lightweight Tri-Durance HS fabric makes it my first choice in jacket for any winter adventure.
As a photographer, this shell is designed perfectly to fit my needs – pockets galore! Two zippered chest pockets, two deep velcro lower pockets, and two hand pockets on the side. Meaning lots of pockets to stash lens caps, lift tickets, cell phones, etc. While also having open side pockets that I can slip my hands into for a quick warm up.
Desired Improvements: None
Significant Specs:
- Water Proof, Durable, 4-way Stretch, Wind Proof, Fully Seam Sealed
- Roll-out hood with stretch binding
- Reflective tape under sleeve and centre back collar for added visibility
- Left inside security pocket with internal Canada Goose wire port
Bottom Line: Buying a Canada Goose product is a financial commitment. But the quality, engineering and performance of the jacket far outweighs any other brands I’ve tried. Dare I say it will last a lifetime? And just maybe is worth the cost? An engineering and performance dream, this jacket lives up to the Canada Goose reputation.