There are days when I just want a thick warm down jacket like this one. But when I’m looking for a more versatile layering system for days that might include skin laps, bootpacking, and inbounds skiing, I use the the Apoc shell. It’s made of Neoshell, the new extremely light and waterproof/breathable membrane from Polartec. The hang of the fabric is much lighter and quieter than my crinkly hardshells of old, which makes it easy and comfortable to move around in. Pit zips, pockets aplenty, and a thoughtfully-tailored fit round out this fully featured alpine shell. [$480; westcombcom] -Sam Bass, Editor