Funny things happen as you age. Not only do you get more wrinkles to showcase the experiences you’ve overcome, but both style and gear choices follow suit. Things like titanium bikes start speaking to you and classic Merino wool jackets, like the Ibex Shak Jacket just feel right.
Ibex Shak Jacket Features:
- Stand collar for warmth
- Wind flap zipper guard
- Spring-loaded zipper pull for silent wear
- 2-hand pockets and a single chest pocket with hidden zippers
- 2-inner drop pockets for added storage
- 100% Merino Ponti knit (375 gm2)
- Natural anti-microbial properties
- Machine wash cold, line dry
- MSRP: $260
A b-a-a-a-a-ry good casual jacket
As outdoorsy people age, we still can’t get enough of the high-quality, technical fabrics we’ve been used to for all those years. However, a 3-layer Gore-Tex jacket isn’t always the right way to make the proper impression. While I’m not ready to succumb to “grandpa mode,” I am grateful for classic styles like the Ibex Shak Jacket that adds comfort, style and warmth to any occasion.
For starters, of course, the Ibex Shak Jacket is made from high-performance Merino wool. It’s pretty thick and durable at 375 gm2, so I’d consider this a heavy mid-layer or a solid outer layer for cool-to-cold conditions. The fit and cut is very traditional, and the size medium fits just right atop a short or long-sleeve shirt. The sleeve length could stand to be a touch longer in case of shrinkage and for added coverage.
While I wouldn’t call this fabric buttery-soft, it feels nice next-to-skin and drapes nicely, no matter how you choose to wear it. Again, I’ve used it as more of a casual jacket and travel companion than adventure jacket, but you can definitely rock it in the backcountry as a mid-layer or outer layer for less-aggressive activities. But, as you well-know, it’s Merino wool, so it will maintain warmth when wet and that tight-knit fabric does take the edge off the wind. The stand-up collar also delivers a cozy touch to maintain warmth. The large, locking zipper is easy to pull up/down and stays put where you leave it.
I took the Shak Jacket on an Alaska cruise last month and it was the perfect companion for the cool winds aboard the ship and nice for some of the business casual evenings. The hand and chest pockets offer ample storage and carry things well, like wallets, phones and keys. Particularly, the chest pocket carries phones or wallets nicely.
The midweight fabric offers excellent warmth, so opt for the Ibex Shak Lite Jacket if you want a year-round Merino option. As it is, the Shak Jacket is best for cool and cold weather use and will keep you warm even if it gets wet.
Fit: I’m 5’11” and 173 lbs. wearing the size medium in charcoal.
The Good:
- Warm and durable all-around jacket
- Great for shedding some wind and maintaining warmth
- Awesome for casual or dressed-up occasions
- Standard cut for a non-aggressive look
- Stays stink-free for days or weeks of use
- No abnormal pilling with wear
The Bad:
- Sleeve length could be longer
- It feels kinda heavy to wear
The Bottom Line: Ibex Shak Jacket
Merino wool jackets are a staple for adventure and casual use around here. Depending on the thickness, you can decide to use it for regular backcountry use or as more of a casual jacket. The thickness of the Ibex Shak Jacket does necessitate using it more as a casual jacket, but don’t write it off as just that. A cold night around the campfire or cool evenings around the neighborhood are awesome uses for this wool jacket.
Buy Now: Visit Ibex.com
