Multipurpose clothing (and equipment, for that matter) is a godsend in the outdoors. These items allow you to minimise pack size and weight while simultaneously maximising your versatility. And Cotopaxi’s Teca Calido Hooded Reversible Jacket (despite it being an absolute mouthful!) is a prime example: It can be used just about anywhere, any time.
The Teca Calido is a hybrid jacket that strikes a balance between being a shell and an insulated garment. Its polyester taffeta outer fabric—which has a DWR finish and 600mm polyurethane backing—excels at repelling the wind, and it’ll also keep you dry in a sprinkle. For those times when an outright shell doesn’t quite cut the proverbial mustard and you need some supplemental warmth, the Teca Calido is filled with 60gsm polyester insulation which—being synthetic—enables you to be cosy even when wet. (The hood adds to the snugness.) There’s no shortage of usable pockets, too, both inside and out.Â
Over the last several months of adventuring, the Teca Calido has become my go-to jacket. It’s what I’ve reached for when (even walking in the Australian Alps over summer) I’ve needed a little extra something while wandering around at sunset, or cooking outside in the evenings, or if the nights have been cooler than expected. I reckon the Teca Calido would be an ideal companion during the fringe seasons when a fully fledged down jacket would be overkill. Given it weighs a mere 390g for the Men’s Medium, and that it easily compresses down to fit in any awkward space in the pack, it’s a no-brainer to throw in, just in case.
For those fashion gurus among us, the Teca Calido is a stereotypical Cotopaxi product: made with lairy colour combinations. And talking about it being multipurpose, it’s reversible too, for when you feel like rocking an alternate style.
But the Teca Calido’s versatility (both practical and aesthetic) isn’t its only drawcard: It’s impressively sustainable and ethical as well. The taffeta polyester is (Re)Purposed—made from other companies’ leftovers—and the synthetic insulation is 100% recycled. What’s more, as a certified B Corporation, 1% of Cotopaxi’s profits are donated to vetted charities supporting people affected by poverty, homelessness and compromised healthcare.
Cotopaxi’s Teca Calido Hooded Reversible Jacket is a jack of (almost) all trades. And you can rest easy knowing that you’re doing a little extra for people and the planet..
The Details:
INTENDED USE: Backcountry exploits, travel
MATERIALS: Repurposed polyester taffeta with DWR finish (shell); 100% recycled 60gsm polyester (insulation)
WEIGHT: Jacket (Size Mens Medium, as tested): 390g
RRP: $219.99
For more information cotopaxi.com.au
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