Funny things happen with age. Not only do you get more wrinkles to showcase the experiences you’ve overcome, but the styling and gear choices follow suit. Things like titanium bikes are starting to speak to you and classic merino wool jackets, like the Ibex Shak Jacket feels great.

Ibex Shak Jacket Features:

• Stand-up collar for added warmth
• Zipped protection with wind flap
• Spring-loaded pull tab for silent wearing
• 2 hand pockets and one chest pocket with concealed zippers
• 2 inside pockets for more storage
• Ponti 100% merino knit (375 g²)
• Natural antimicrobial properties
• Machine wash cold, line dry
• MSRP: $260

A very good casual jacket

As outdoor enthusiasts age, we still can’t get enough of the high-quality, technical fabrics we’ve grown accustomed to all these years. However, a 3-layer Gore-Tex jacket is not always the right way to make a good impression. While I’m not ready to succumb to “grandpa fashion,” I’m grateful for classic styles like the Ibex Shak Jacket that add comfort, style, and warmth to any occasion.

For starters, of course, the Ibex Shak Jacket is made from high performance merino wool. It is quite thick and durable at 375g², so I would consider this a thick mid-layer or solid outer layer for cool to cold conditions. The fit and cut is very traditional, and the medium size fits perfectly over a short or long sleeve shirt. Sleeve length could be a little longer for shrinkage and extra coverage.

While I wouldn’t rate this fabric as buttery soft, it feels great against the skin and drapes beautifully however you choose to wear it. Again, I’ve used it more as a casual jacket and travel companion than an adventure jacket, but you can definitely wear 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 retain warmth when wet, and that tightly knit fabric keeps the wind out. The stand-up collar also adds a cozy touch to retain heat. The large lockable zipper is easy to pull up and down and stays put where you leave it.

I took the Shak jacket on a cruise to Alaska last month and it was the perfect companion for the chilly winds aboard the ship and nice for some casual business evenings. Hand and chest pockets provide ample storage and easy to carry items, like wallets, phones and keys. In particular, the chest pocket carries phones or wallets well.

Mid-weight fabric offers excellent warmth, so opt for the Ibex Shak Lite Jacket if you want a year-round merino option. As it stands, the Shak Jacket is ideal for cool and cold weather use and will keep you warm even when wet.

Fit: I’m 5’11” and weigh 173 lbs. wearing size medium in charcoal.

Good:

• Warm and resistant versatile jacket
• Ideal for wind protection and heat retention
• Ideal for casual or dressy occasions
• Standard cut for a non-aggressive look
• Stays odor free for days or weeks of use
• No abnormal pilling with wear

The bad:

• Sleeve length could be longer
• It’s a bit heavy to carry

The essential: the Ibex Shak jacket

Merino wool jackets are a must have for adventure and casual use here. Depending on the thickness, you can decide whether to use it for regular backcountry use or as a more casual jacket. The thickness of the Ibex Shak Jacket necessitates using it more as a casual jacket, but don’t think of it as such. A chilly night around the campfire or chilly evenings in the neighborhood are great uses for this wool jacket.

Buy now: Visit Ibex.com