ProView – Ortovox Piz Duleda Jacket

With winter finally coming into full swing, it’s time to break out the ice tools and join the mad rush to find the best ice. The hunt for backcountry ice often involves long and steep approaches. Typically those require a breathable and moisture-wicking active membrane layer to avoid overheating– even in cold and snowy conditions. Don’t sweat, the Ortovox Piz Duleda jacket has just what you need!

As the newest member of the USA Ice Climbing Team, most of my free time is dedicated to ice climbing and dry tooling. With the wide range of temperatures I experience in a day, having my layers dialed in is essential. I wore the Ortovox Piz Duleda jacket while getting in some early season swings at Lincoln Falls near Breckenridge, Colorado, and dry tooling in Vail – both of which have sweat-inducing approaches no matter the temperature outside. As expected with high altitude climbing, I encountered wind, snow, and below-freezing temperatures. The Piz Duleda jacket worked great for protecting against the extreme elements.

Fit/Function

The Piz Duleda jacket sports a slim fit, which is necessary for climbing that involves sharp objects. Not once did I have to worry about snagging loose clothing. Even if I did brush against the jacket, the fabric is tightly knit and elastic so my ice tools just slid off and did not tear it. Likewise, for skiing, a brush against tree branches would not be the end of this jacket. The elastic waistband and cuffs worked well at keeping the warmth in and the snow and wind out.

Features/Performance

The tight-knit pattern in the fabric not only allows the jacket to be wind, water, and ice tool resistant, it also excels in “intelligent” temperature management. When the climber or skier’s body temperature is too warm, the polymers in the fabric open up to wick away moisture and heat, and when the wearer is cold, the polymers close up to trap in warmth. I definitely took note of this feature while climbing and at rest. It also has pit zips – one of my favorite features –  for additional temperature regulation if needed. High waist pockets allow for fast and easy access to snacks or gloves when wearing a climbing harness or backpack, and the small pocket on the left arm is great for storing lip balm or a ski pass.

Look/Style

Ortovox apparel is known for featuring unique and bright colors, and the Piz Duleda jacket is no exception. I am in love with the hot pink zipper accent against the turquoise jacket. The black 3L Space Mesh on the chest adds a sharp look to the jacket and extra protection for your core in harsh conditions.

Durability

While this jacket is perfect for a high output activity like an approach to a climb or a demanding day of skiing, I would not recommend wearing it by itself when standing around for long periods of time. It is designed to be wind and water resistant, but it is not designed to be the only source of warmth in extreme conditions. I haven’t tried it yet, but the Swisswool Piz Bernina jacket looks like it would make for the perfect additional layer to stay warm between climbs!

Final Word

Overall I give the Piz Duleda 4 stars as a high-output activity layer. The advanced temperature regulating features of this jacket really shines when you’re working hard in the alpine. The fit and style are unparalleled, and the lightweight nature of the jacket allows it to pack away easily. It won’t keep you toasty warm when you’re not moving, but it worked phenomenally as a single component in a layering system.  

Shop the Ortovox Piz Duleda Jacket on Outdoor Prolink. Not a member? Apply today!