Ventum Wind Shell

The Ventum Wind Shell is made by Zpacks in Florida (United States). It is an ultralight wind jacket designed to block wind and retain body heat while hiking without adding hardly any weight to your pack.

Starting at just 55 grams, it is one of the lightest hooded full-zip jackets on the market. A simple layer that usually ends up being used far more than you might expect.

When to use it

A wind jacket makes sense when a T-shirt or base layer is no longer enough, but an insulated jacket would be too much. It is especially useful on exposed ridges, cold mornings, descents, or windy days.

Combined with a lightweight fleece, it significantly boosts warmth with almost no added weight. That is why it is one of the most-used garments among long-distance hikers and thru-hikers.

Design

The Ventum Wind Shell features an elastic hood, full front zipper, and elastic cuffs that help block drafts without complicating the design with unnecessary features.

It also includes thumb holes that keep the sleeves in place while hiking and provide a bit more protection from wind and sun. It can also be packed into its own pocket, taking up very little space in your pack.

Made with Ventum Ripstop Nylon 7D

It is made from 7-denier Ventum Ripstop Nylon, an extremely lightweight fabric designed to provide excellent wind protection while maintaining good breathability. The fabric has a soft feel and is much more comfortable to wear than other ultralight wind shells.

It also features a PFAS-free DWR treatment that helps repel light drizzle and surface moisture. The fabric also acts as a barrier against insects and compresses down to take up very little space in your pack.

Specifications

• Weight from 55 g.
• Ventum Ripstop Nylon 7D fabric.
• PFAS-free DWR treatment.
• Integrated hood.
• Full front zipper.
• Elastic cuffs and waistband.
• Thumb holes.
• High wind protection.
• Very breathable.
• Barrier against insects.
• Packs into its own pocket.

Size charts

Ratings and reviews