Canada Goose Timber Shell (Women)

By Payge McMahon

Overview

The women’s technical Timber Shell by CG is a tough, active, waterproof, lightweight, high-end jacket. Thanks to the slim fit cut, the Timber truly compliments the female figure. It is fashionable for everyday casual wear and functional with all sorts of outdoor adventures like skiing, running, hiking and mountain biking.   When you get it dirty, just throw it in the washer.

I tested this jacket running in a 250km ultra stage race in Iceland, with damp, freezing temperatures and F1 hurricane (75+ mph) arctic headwinds, to hiking in the United States in the woods in a torrential downpour and sitting in the rain at an NFL football game.      The Timber Shell is a good windbreaker and kept me dry from head to hips.

Snap Shot

• Fit: Slim Fit
• Sizes: 2XS – 2XL
• Fill: None
• Weight: 1.3 lbs. (600 grams)
• 7 different colors
• Left chest pocket with YKK® waterproof coil 1-way locking zipper
• Left inside security pocket with internal Canada Goose wire port
• Left cuff pocket with YKK® waterproof coil 1-way locking zipper
• Brushed tricot lined interior collar
• Adjustable waist from the inside, with an elastic draw cord
• Adjustable Velcro® cuffs to protect from cold and wind
• Centre back length: 27.5” / 69.85cm
• Single handed adjustable hem using pocket access to seal out cold and wind
• Underarm YKK® waterproof coil 2-way locking zippers for ventilation
• Reflective tape at under sleeve and collar for added visibility
• Centre front YKK® waterproof coil 2-way locking zipper
• Waterproof, breathable, fully seam-sealed
• Hip-length; cut longer at the back for more protection from cold and wind
• 3-way adjustable, helmet compatible hood (hood opening, horizontally, centre back vertical)
• Mesh panel pocket interior for added ventilation
• Retails: $650-$675 USD

Company

Founded in Toronto, Canada in 1957, Canada Goose produces some of the best extreme weather outerwear in the world. All products are made in Canada.

Design Features and Filed Functionality  

Layering

At 5’9”, 150 lbs., with an athletic build and broad shoulders, Canada Goose medium size fits me perfectly. The shoulders and arms were not tight and there is room to layer. Whether wearing a CG Hybridge Camp Hoody, a Hybridge Lite jacket or a bulky fleece sweatshirt underneath the Timber jacket, I did not feel restricted.

Cut & Design

The slim fit compliments the female figure. Incorporating an adjustable, elastic draw cord around the waistline, this allows the wearer to cinch the jacket in and out for a comfortable fit.

The hip-length cut is slightly longer in the back. Yes, technically speaking, this feature makes it warmer and offers better weather protection. Esthetically, as a female a bit self-conscious of her butt and hips, the cut complimentary accentuates curves while hiding certain–assets.

From hips to head, the jacket was an excellent windbreaker and kept me dry.

The 3-way adjustable, helmet compatible, hood with extended brim is very sturdy. It kept bitter cold, arctic winds, torrential rain and sleet off my face during the 250km Iceland race. I wore a ski hat under the hood and thanks to the adjustable cords, not once did the hood fly off my head.  

The adjustable Velcro cuffs and long sleeves protect the wrist and arms from elements seeping through. They also do well in securing gloves.

Material

The premium Tri-Durance HS, 3-layer, hard-shell fabric is supremely durable. Even when I fell down an Icelandic volcanic rock hill, the jacket did not rip.

Zippers

YKK® waterproof coil locking zippers are used on this jacket. They do a great job in keeping water out.

The center, main double zipper ,to open and close the jacket, is temperamental. You have to make sure latch is perfectly fitted or it won’t zip up. I have had the same zipper challenges with other CG coats.

Ventilation

Under both arms there is a ventilation zipper to aid in airflow. It will cool you off nicely. Depending on activity and if in a downpour though, when unzipped, this section will not be waterproof.

Pockets

There are a total of five pockets; four external (two hand pockets, a front, upper-left chest pocket and a lower-left arm pocket) and one interior (security pocket inside upper-left chest).

The pockets can store everything from a cell phone, small camera, keys, passport to GU gels and bars.

The pockets will keep items dry, albeit wearer does not sweat heavily. I put my cell phone in the exterior upper-chest and hand-pockets to see if it would stay safe when running in the rain. While it stayed protected from water on the outside, condensation built up on the inside. CG uses an internal mesh material that helps ventilation, unfortunately if you sweat in the jacket, condensation will build up inside the pockets.

Pros & Cons

Pros: Great windbreaker, flattering cut, durable

Cons: Internal condensation will also get inside pockets. Tricky double zipper.

Review: BRIGGS & RILEY: BRX EXPLORE 22 IN UPRIGHT CARRY-ON LUGGAGE

This light-weight, durable carry-on luggage is built for the traveling road-warrior. I tested the BRX Explore 22 in. Upright Carry-On Luggage on multiple trips, flying over 15,000 air miles from Tennessee, North Carolina, Florida to Alaska.  It was thrown around by airport luggage handlers, rained on, sat on, rolled over snow, ice and even sand. Mother Nature couldn’t break it and I doubt I will either!

This carry-on is ideal for short trips business trips and as supplemental luggage for longer adventures. Let’s take a look at the basic specs on the BRX Explore 22 in Upright Carry-On and then get into the details of how the luggage performs.

Snap Shot

Dimensions: 9″ x 14″ x 22″ / 22.9 x 35.6 x 55.9 cm

Dimensions with Wheels & Handle: 10.3″ x 14″ x 23″ / 26.2 x 35.6 x 58.4 cm

Laptop Pocket Size: 2″ x 12″ x 15″ / 5.1 x 30.5 x 38.1 cm

Laptop Size: 15.6

Outside Expanded Depth: 12″ / 30.5 cm

Capacity: 2180 cu. in. / 35.7 liters

Colors: Slate, Ocean, Amber and Lava

Weight: 7.5 lbs / 3.4 kg

Fabric: 420d Ripstop nylon, 420d Packcloth, 1000d Nylon, Abrasion resistant/weatherproof Tarpaulin

Zippers: YKK racquet coil zippers

• Warranty: ® lifetime warranty includes ordinary wear and tear and airline damage
• Colors: Lava, Amber, Ocean & Slate

Made: Asia

Retail: $300

Company Overview

Briggs & Riley Travelware, LLC was founded in 1993 and is based in Hauppauge, NY.  The company designs, manufactures, and distributes luggage products including toiletry kits, carry-on wheeled uprights, totes, garment bags, travel bags, wheeled uprights, duffels, and rolling and non-rolling business cases, as well as various accessories. It also offers lightweight luggage collection for the adventure travelers. The company sells its products through specialty luggage stores in North America and through its online boutique.

BRX Explore 22 in. Upright Carry-On Luggage Design Features

*Built to maximum carry-on dimensions and fits most airplane overhead bins”

Internal Features

• This carry-on features an easy pack main compartment with wide nylon compression panels keep your gear flat and neat
• Inside top lid features wet/dry pocket and essentials compartment for additional organization
• Padded sleeve for laptop storage
• Expandable slash pocket perfect for light jacket, guide books or maps
• Tapered zip expansion keeps bag lightweight while maximizing carry-on capacity

External Features  

•  Quick access front pockets and two exterior, zippered front pockets offer space for accessory items
• Front zip compartment stores up to a 16″ laptop
• The Outsider® handle system allows for more interior space and bars are on the outside of the luggage for a spacious flat packing surface inside.
• High performance 420d ripstop and packcloth nylon, along with technical grade hardware/components
• External buckle system allows any two BRX bags to quickly connect together to become one checkable piece of luggage or even easier carry-on
• Multiple grab handles with moisture wicking mesh lining surround bag for ease of carry and loading/unloading.  

Functionality in the Field

I didn’t waste any time putting the BRX Explore to work.  I had multiple trips lined up, including a long winter adventure in Alaska and Florida beach holiday.   It traveled in planes, trains and cars, endured  temperatures ranging from -40F to 130F and rolled through rain, snow, ice and sand.  The bag held its own. The carry-on’s external nylon material did not rip once.  It may have gotten a little dirty from all the travel, but was easy to clean, by just scrubbing away with a little soap and water. The bag is water resistant.  My clothes did not get wet, even with some light rain and snow. That being said, I wouldn’t recommend throwing it in a lake and expecting dry clothes. The main compartment is huge and there are pockets for everything. I especially loved the wide, external slip pocket for a laptop.  So much easier to carry and access when going through security.

Having to check a bag on airplanes is expensive and you risk luggage getting lost.  Having a carry-on good for trips lasting from 3 days to a week is important.  I was able to pack several pairs of shoes including sneakers, high heels and sandals along with workout clothes, bathing suits, causal and evening wear for a 5 day trip to Florida. On a trip to Alaska, I stuffed the carry-on with a bulky Canada Goose Snow Mantra parka and Herman Monster sized Baffin Impact Boots for extreme cold weather endeavors.

The BRX base weight of 7.5 lbs is really light. The wheels are smooth and go in two directions, forward and back.  I would recommend the next version of the BRX Explorer upgrade to swivel wheels for greater ease of movement. The handle is extra light and stronger then it looks.  Between me and Mother Nature, if we couldn’t break it, you probably won’t either. The BRX Explore is stylish.  The design and color options give it a more refined look for the higher end adventurer.  Its distinct look and colors also make it easier to spot on the luggage carousel.

Pros: Love the external lap top pocket,  lots of space

Cons: Swivel wheels would be a nice option

Originally Published on Woods MonkeyWatch Full Movie Online Streaming Online and Download

Review: CANADA GOOSE MONTEBELLO

By Payge McMahon

The Montebello is the perfect coat for going out on the town, dressing up those jeans and keeping you warm in the arctic temperatures.  A new design in the Canada Goose collection, this hip length, form fitting, stylish parka will keep you toasty with its 625 fill down insulation and looking good!

Snapshot

• 625 fill power white duck down
• Shell: 190gsm, Arctic-Tech; 85% polyester / 15% Cotton blend with a DWR finish.
• Lining: 55gsm, Nylon plain weave treated with a WR finish
• Down hood with fleece lining and removable coyote fur ruff
• Heavy-duty 2-way locking front zipper
• Military buttons
• Rib-knit cuffs
• Fleece lined chin guard
• 7 Pockets  (interior & exterior)
• Interior shoulder straps
• 2.2 lbs
• 15 different colors
• Made in Canada
• Retail: $575

Company Overview

Canada Goose is a leading manufacturer of extreme cold weather outerwear. Founded in 1957 in Toronto, Canada, Canada Goose has grown to nearly $100M in annual revenue.

Design Features

According to the Canada Goose website, the Montebello parka was inspired by and named for Quebec’s beautiful Chateau Montebello, the world’s largest and most stylish log cabin. While the coat does not resemble a log cabin, it is rugged quality, rustic elegance and will shelter you from the elements. 

The Montebello parka has an adjustable waist drawstring adding to the slim fitting style.  Its cut contours the female body and won’t leave you feeling or looking bulky.  The low-hip cut gives you just enough protection and complimentarily accentuates your curves.

The Arctic-Tech shell is made with Canada Goose parka cross section.  The outer shell is treated with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) fabric protector and 3XDRY treated, which is water, dirt and stain repellent.

Thermal mapping follows with a down-proof containment weaved, inter-lining and premium down and down proof nylon lining.  This strategic distribution and multi-zone linking of down insulation with a functional secondary fabric utilizes both the warmth and protection components of each material.  

Thanks to the 3XDRY® treatment, your parka is wind, water, dirt and stain repellent.  Along with the c_change™ membrane, it will independently react to changing temperatures and activities.  Like a pine cone, the c_change™ membrane closes when exposed to cold and opens in response to warmth.  The existing humidity and body moisture are taken into account in this process.  Any moisture resulting from perspiration is quickly absorbed and distributed over a large surface area, accelerating the evaporation process and helping to regulate your body to its ideal temperature.

Cold wrists are never an issue with the recessed, heavy-duty, stretchy rib-knit cuffs.

The adjustable down hood with fleece lining and removable coyote fur ruff will instantly warm your ears and protect your head.

The signature Yoshida Kogyo durable, heavy-duty 2 way locking front zipper is easy to use and will last a lifetime.  Combined with military button closures, nothing is getting inside the parka that wasn’t already zipped up and buttoned!

Internally and externally there are 7 pockets on this parka.  The two upper chest, fleece lined pockets secured with snap closure offer a place to tuck hands in to keep them warm.  Two lower pockets with flaps secured by military button closures are big enough to store a small camera or some granola bars.  Inside, a right-side security pocket with zipper closure is perfect for securing money and a passport.  The left interior pocket is stretchy and a good place to protect your cell phone or iPod.  Conveniently, the pocket also has a access headphone opening.  The upper, left arm sleeve has another small zipper compartment along with two pencil or pen pockets.

Another nice feature on this parka is the interior shoulder straps.  You can secure yourself even more into the parka or carry it like a backpack indoors while allowing your arms to be free.

Field Functionality

Canada Goose does not weather rate their coats.  It is universally recognized that their outerwear is used in the arctic and thus can handle extreme cold weather conditions.  I wore mine during an Alaskan winter and double digit, sub-zero temperatures.   This coat is warm!  It repelled snow, sleet and wind.

The slim-fit parka is attractive and fits the female body well.  At 5’9” tall and weighing in at an athletic 150 lbs, a medium size was the perfect fit for me.  The only thing I would have liked a little more would be additional material stretch in the arms. It’s a little restrictive, but hey, the Montebello was never designed with the intentions of getting into snowball fights.  If you want a parka for that, try Canada Goose’ Expedition.

The hood is great and will instantly warm your head and ears.  Hearing may become a little challenging as the hood is so good it blocks out the wind and some decibels.  Just ask your friends to speak up!  The hood size may also impair your peripheral vision which can easily be corrected by taking off the removable coyote fur ruff.  Another thing you should know about the coyote ruff is that dogs will take an instinctive interest in your hood’s fur.  While in Alaska covering the Iditarod, anytime I was petting dogs, they would purposely sniff my fur ruff.  They were just curious and I didn’t mind their loving attention.

You definitely have enough pockets where bringing a purse is not necessary. You can store your wallet, lipstick, cell phone and still have room for more stuff!  I agree with Canada Goose when it states that “the upper chest fleece pockets are great for keeping your hands warm,” but as a female, based on their location, it does look a little weird.  Normally, I am used to comfortably putting my hands in two lower, side pockets when wearing a coat.  The Montebello design does not have these.  Instead there are two pockets about six inches directly below the chest.  These two lower pockets are an alternative place to put your hands, and while not fleeced, do offer some protection against the cold and wind.

Overall, I love the new Canada Goose Montebello parka.  It’s stylish, attractive and warm without being bulky.  You even feel sexy in it.  Seriously!

Pros:  Warm & Stylish

Cons: A little restrictive in the arms

Review originally published on Woods MonkeyWatch Full Movie Online Streaming Online and Download

Review: CANADA GOOSE EXPEDITION PARKA FOR WOMEN

Scientists in Antarctica have been wearing Canada Goose Expedition Parkas for the past twenty years.  You can’t get a better cold gear referral than from them!  This coat is durable, well insulated, has lots of pockets and without a doubt, will keep you warm and toasty.

Snapshot

• 625 fill power white duck down
• Shell: 190gsm, Arctic-Tech; 85% polyester / 15% Cotton blend with a DWR finish.
• Lining: 55gsm, Nylon plain weave treated with a WR finish
• Relaxed Insulated Fit
• Mid-Thigh Length
• 2-way adjustable tunnel hood  with coyote fur ruff
• An elasticized nylon snowskirt
• Drawcord waist
• Heavy-duty 2-way locking front zipper with Velcro storm flap covering
• Rib-knit cuffs
• Fleece lined chin guard
• 9 External & 2 Internal Pockets
• Interior nylon belt with Velcro closure
• 4 lbs
• 12 different colors
• Made in Canada
• Retail: $625

Company Overview:

Canada Goose is a leading manufacturer of extreme cold weather outerwear. Founded in 1957 in Toronto, Canada, Canada Goose has grown to nearly $100M in annual revenue.

Design Features:
The Arctic-Tech shell is made with Canada Goose parka cross section.  The outer shell is treated with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) fabric protector and 3XDRY treated, water, dirt and stain repellent.  Thermal mapping follows with a down-proof containment weaved, inter-lining and premium down and down proof nylon lining.  This strategic distribution and multi-zone linking of down insulation with a functional secondary fabric utilizes both the warmth and protection components of each material.

Design Features:
The Arctic-Tech shell is made with Canada Goose parka cross section.  The outer shell is treated with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) fabric protector and 3XDRY treated, water, dirt and stain repellent.  Thermal mapping follows with a down-proof containment weaved, inter-lining and premium down and down proof nylon lining.  This strategic distribution and multi-zone linking of down insulation with a functional secondary fabric utilizes both the warmth and protection components of each material.

Thanks to the 3XDRY® treatment, the Expedition parka is wind, water, dirt and stain repellent.  Along with the c_change™ membrane, it will independently react to changing temperatures and activities.  Like a pine cone, the c_change™ membrane closes when exposed to cold and opens in response to warmth.  The existing humidity and body moisture are taken into account in this process.  Any moisture resulting from perspiration is quickly absorbed and distributed over a large surface area, accelerating the evaporation process and helping to regulate your body to its ideal temperature.

Cold wrists are never an issue with the recessed, heavy-duty, stretchy rib-knit cuffs.
The adjustable coyote fur ruff, down tunnel hood with fleece lining has a drawl string allowing you to customize your protection and will instantly warm your ears and head.

The signature Yoshida Kogyo durable, heavy-duty 2 way locking front zipper is easy to use and with the added Velcro flap, nothing is getting inside your parka.

Externally, there are 9 pockets on this parka, not including the two pencil/pen pockets on the left sleeve. There are two upper chest pockets secured with Velcro flaps and directly underneath them, accessible via outside, side zippers are two more pockets. The two lower pockets, located about six inches below, are deep, lined with fleece and will keep your hands warm.  They also have another pocket directly underneath them accessible via an exterior outside, side zipper.  The right sleeve has a pocket, to store a cell phone or small camera.

Internally, there are two pockets on the left side of the parka.  One is protected by a zipper and ideal for keeping a passport and money.  The other is an open mouth
pocket.  It is perfect for wanting to easily access something without having to fumble with additional zippers or Velcro.

Also inside there is also a nylon belt with Velcro fastener as an additional option for securing yourself into your Expedition parka.  

Field Functionality

Canada Goose does not weather rate their coats.  It is universally recognized that their outerwear is used in the arctic and thus can handle extreme cold weather conditions.  As I mentioned earlier, if the scientist in Antarctica have been using these parkas for twenty years, then I know the Expedition can handle a Chicago winter.

In fact, the Expedition is worn by many Iditarod Mushers, Everest Mountain Climbers and ordinary people trying to make it through the long, cold winters.  I wore mine during an Alaskan winter and double digit, sub-zero temperatures.   This coat is warm & kept me dry.

At 5’9” tall and weighing in at an athletic 150 lbs, a medium size was the perfect fit for me.  It is very roomy and you can layer underneath.  It’s bulky, but you will be warm and well protected!

The tunnel shaped hood will instantly warm your head and ears.  Hearing may become a little challenging as the hood is so good it blocks out the wind and some decibels.  Just ask your friends to speak up!  The hood size may also impair your peripheral vision so you’ll have to compensate by turning your head more.

Another thing you should know about the coyote ruff is that dogs will take an instinctive interest in your hood’s fur.  While in Alaska covering the Iditarod, anytime I was petting dogs, they would purposely sniff my fur ruff.  They were just curious and I didn’t mind their loving attention.

I really like the long, ribbed wrist cuffs.  They firmly secured my gloves in place.  Even after a friendly snowball fight, my wrists stayed warm and dry.

You definitely have enough pockets where bringing a purse or even a day pack if hiking, is not necessary. You can even store a liter bottle in one of the lower front pockets!  There is plenty of room for granola bars, wallet, ChapStick, camera, iPod, gloves etc.

One thing I would modify with the Expedition is a slightly roomier zipper pull.  The current one is narrow and does not easily allow for attaching/ hooking ski-lift passes or laminated credential.

Overall, I love the Canada Goose Expedition Parka.  There are so many pockets you will forget which one you put whatever you are looking for inside.  It is the warmest coat I have ever worn.

Pros: Warm, Functional, Lots of Pockets

Cons: Bulky. You’ll look and feel like the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man

www.canada-goose.com

Review originally published with Woods Monkey