Review: Peak Performance Vertical Gore-Tex ePE Jacket and Pants

• Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL
• Fit: Relaxed fit
• Material: 3-layer GORE-TEX ePE with Stretch Panels

Sizing and Fit

Advertised as a “relaxed” fit that fits slightly larger than normal, the kit’s silhouette is definitely not your typical Euro fit. The jacket is loose, but not quite Simon Dumont in 2008 baggy. I’m 6’0” and around 190lbs, and typically wear a size L outerwear kit. I followed the online sizing tool, which recommended either an L or an XL kit, so I opted to size up to an XL kit for resort skiing.

The jacket runs true to size, and the XL feels baggy but comfortable, though I would probably stick to a L for backcountry use when skiing with a pack to prevent any bunching. The pants, on the other hand, actually feel like they run a little small. The the XL felt like it fit me just right without being as baggy as the jacket.

On the jacket, the non-removable powder skirt and drawstrings along the hem allowed me to dial in the fit and keep the bottom of the jacket sealed against snow. The jacket integrates nicely with the Vertical pants, especially with snap buttons along the powder skirt, but also feels comfortable when worn with pants from different brands. The pants feature a solid hook-and-loop waist adjustment that hasn’t slipped, and I haven’t found the need to wear a belt with them, but there are belt loops in case.

In the field with the Peak Performance Vertical Kit:

Hardshell freeride kits are all the rage these days, because why not stay protected from the elements with a durable, waterproof and breathable kit? Peak Performance chooses to use Gore-Tex’s newest material, Gore-Tex ePE, as the membrane for the whole kit. That’s paired with various face materials across the kit, including stretchy panels in certain places for a more comfortable fit. Both the jacket and pants feature built-in RECCO reflectors.

The pocket layout on the jacket and pants is somewhat different than that I’ve found in many other kits and exemplifies the kit’s minimalist design philosophy. Up top, there’s a small chest pocket (great for stashing a snack, sunglasses, or a ski strap) with a built-in goggle wipe, and two large top-entry dump pockets above the waist. The left shoulder has a small zippered pass pocket that's RFID-friendly. Two large underarm vents allow for easy ventilation. Inside, there’s a small zippered mesh pocket that can hold a phone. On the pants, two zippered waist pockets are paired with a single drop pocket on the right leg that’s large enough to hold an avalanche beacon.

Gore-Tex ePE (expanded polyethylene) membrane is the new generation of the classic waterproof/breathable material that takes advantage of the hydrophobic (water repellent) nature of ePE. Here’s a good explanation of how the material actually works, and why even when the face fabric “wets out” on super nasty days, it will still keep you dry inside.

I’ve now worn the jacket and pants now in all kinds of weather from warm spring-like conditions at Grand Targhee, to super cold and wet chairlift rides during blustery early-season 12-inch storms. I’ve been super impressed with how well the material protects me from wind, snow, and rain, while regulating my temperature and moisture. It's not warm on its own, but is super wind and waterproof. If you’re a fan of layering a non-insulated shell over your favorite mid layer options, this is one of the best heavy-duty outer layers I’ve found.

Who is the Peak Performance Vertical best for?

Given that the kit was designed with heavy input from freeride skiers, it’s no surprise that this is who the Peak Performance Vertical Jacket and Pants are best for. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense durable kit that not only looks great, but will keep you dry and protected from the elements in the resort, and won’t shy away from human-powered skiing to access the goods, this is a great option.