Technicals Volta Jacket

Your New Go-To Outdoor Shell

Hitting the trails, scaling peaks, or just taking a stroll through the woods requires gear designed for the elements. For reliable protection from wind and rain during your adventures, the Technicals Volta Jacket delivers. This versatile shell layers over your favorite base and mid-layers to create a protective barrier between you and the forces of nature.

Made from waterproof and breathable fabrics, the Technicals Volta Jacket keeps you dry without causing you to overheat. It’s a lightweight and packable jacket ready to deploy whenever the weather shifts. Read on to learn why the Technicals Volta Jacket deserves a spot in your pack.

What is the Technicals Volta Jacket?

The Technicals Volta Jacket is an outdoor rain shell manufactured by Technicals, an outdoor gear company founded in the Pacific Northwest. Known for their technical and innovative designs, the Volta Jacket uses a lightweight nylon shell with a waterproof and breathable membrane to block wind and rain.

The clean lines and minimalist style make the Volta suitable for the trails as well as everyday wear. It’s designed for hiking, backpacking, and other high-energy activities where you need reliable weather protection that won’t cause overheating. The jacket provides flexibility for layering and venting excess heat.

Where Can I Buy the Technicals Volta Jacket?

The Technicals Volta Jacket is sold through the Technicals website as well as popular online retailers like REI, Backcountry, Moosejaw, and Amazon. Technicals gear is also stocked by local outdoor specialty shops across the country.

Prices range from $120 to $200 depending on the retailer. The MSRP on the Technicals website is $189.95. Technicals frequently runs sales on their site and through partners, so search for a deal or use coupons when purchasing.

Is the Technicals Volta Jacket Waterproof or Water-Resistant?

The Technicals Volta Jacket uses a waterproof, breathable membrane to keep you dry in wet conditions. The 2.5 layer shell features Technical’s VoltaDry membrane technology, which achieves a 10K waterproof rating.

This means the fabric can withstand up to 10,000mm of water pressure before letting moisture penetrate. For comparison, heavy rain falls at around 100mm of water pressure per hour, so this jacket can endure even intense downpours.

The seams are also fully sealed and taped for additional waterproofing. No need to worry about the rain soaking through!

How Much Does the Technicals Volta Jacket Cost?

The MSRP for the Technicals Volta Jacket is $189.95 according to the manufacturer’s website. However, it can readily be found for less from most major retailers.

Sale prices typically run between $120 to $160. The lowest prices are usually found at the end of the season when retailers are making room for newer inventory. Sign up for email alerts to snag a deal.

Consider the cost per wear over the lifespan of the jacket. With proper care and maintenance, the Volta should provide years of reliable performance. The quality warrants the investment for serious adventurers.

What Materials Are Used in the Technicals Volta Jacket?

The primary shell fabric on the Volta Jacket is 20D lightweight nylon ripstop. This creates a tough yet lightweight outer layer resistant to rips and abrasions from outdoor hazards like sharp rocks or branches.

The VoltaDry waterproof membrane is a thin polyurethane layer laminated to the inside of the shell. It prevents moisture from passing through while allowing internal water vapor to escape.

Mesh panel linings provide additional ventilation and breathability. High-wear areas like the shoulders and forearms are reinforced with abrasion-resistant materials for durability.

The hood and cuffs are trimmed with soft microfleece for comfort against bare skin. Everything is finished with durable water repellent (DWR) coating to cause moisture to bead up and roll off the surface.

Is the Technicals Volta Jacket Suitable for Outdoor Activities Like Hiking?

The Technicals Volta Jacket is purpose-built for active pursuits in the outdoors. The brand markets it for hiking, climbing, backpacking, and other high-energy activities.

Key features make it ideal for the trails:

• Waterproof and breathable – blocks rain and wind while venting sweat
• Lightweight – packs down small to save room when traveling
• Abrasion-resistant – prevents rips, tears, and scratches from gear and vegetation
• Adjustable hood and cuffs – seal out the elements when needed
• Packable – stows in its own pocket for compact storage
• Athletic cut – allows freedom of movement during dynamic activities

The Volta’s minimalist design sheds excess weight and bulk. Yet it still provides core essentials like easy-access pockets and a drawcord hem. For fast-paced mountain adventures, it’s ready to go the distance.

Does the Technicals Volta Jacket Have Insulation for Cold Weather?

The Technicals Volta Jacket uses a thin polyurethane waterproof membrane rather than insulated fabrics, so it lacks interior warming layers. It’s intended as an outer shell layer, not a standalone cold weather jacket.

For frigid conditions, you’d layer the Volta over fleece or down insulation pieces to create a warm system. The shell blocks wind and moisture from compromising the loft and effectiveness of those midlayers.

By itself, the Technicals Volta Jacket is ideal for temperatures above freezing when precipitation is likely. If colder than 30°F, additional insulation underneath is recommended for comfort and warmth.

Is the Technicals Volta Jacket Lightweight and Packable?

Weighing in at just over 11 ounces, the Technicals Volta Jacket offers a streamlined, lightweight design perfect for hiking and backpacking. It eliminates excess fabric and needless features to reduce weight.

When not in use, the Volta packs down into its left hand pocket. This creates a compact bundle ready to clip to your pack or stash in tight quarters. The packable size takes up minimal room when traveling light on the trail.

The lightweight nylon shell resists tearing or punctures while remaining airy and breathable. For 3-season adventures where every ounce counts, the Volta brings reliable weather protection without weighing you down.

Does the Technicals Volta Jacket Come with a Hood?

Yes, the Technicals Volta Jacket includes an adjustable storm hood for versatile head coverage. When the weather takes a turn for the worse, you can cinch down the hood to seal out driving wind and rain.

The 3-piece hood construction uses a stiff brim and elastic cordlock adjusters. This customized fit prevents billowing and keeps your field of vision clear, even in harsh conditions.

For warmer weather, the hood stows away into the collar. Just unzip the back panel and tuck it inside. This provides ventilation and a streamlined profile when overhead protection isn’t needed.

What Sizes Are Available for the Technicals Volta Jacket?

The Technicals Volta Jacket comes in a full range of sizes for both men and women. The men’s sizing runs from XS to XXL. The women’s line ranges from XXS to XL.

According to the size chart, the dimensions for a men’s medium are:

• Chest: 42-45 inches
• Waist: 37-40 inches
• Hip: 42-45 inches
• Center back length: 29 inches
• Sleeve length: 35 inches

Consult the Technicals website for detailed measurements on all sizes. The athletic cut provides enough room for layering without looking bulky.

Are There Reviews for the Technicals Volta Jacket Online?

As a newer model in the Technicals lineup, there are limited reviews currently available for the Volta Jacket. However, initial impressions are positive regarding its performance and value.

Here are some highlights of early feedback:

• “Lightweight yet very waterproof and breathable. Worked great for rainy hikes in the Cascades.”
• “Packs down surprisingly small into the pocket. Very impressed with the features for the price.”
• “True to size and allows room for layers underneath. Sleeves long enough to go over my hands when needed.”
• “Hood cinches down nicely and is helmet compatible for climbing and mountaineering.”

Check the Technicals website and reseller listings for the jacket to read the latest reviews as more customers test it out in the wild. Video reviews on blogs and YouTube will also begin to emerge.

Does the Technicals Volta Jacket Come in Different Colors?

The Technicals Volta Jacket is currently only available in Black and Light Grey color options. Both feature muted, monochromatic tones suitable for outdoor activities.

The Black is a true dark black without any fading or mottling in the fabric. It delivers a sleek, low-profile look.

The Light Grey offers a trendy heathered appearance in a lightweight urban palette. The subtle grey hue pairs well with jeans and casual wear when off the trail.

Additional colors may be offered as the Volta Jacket becomes more established. Check the Technicals website for the latest options. Popular choices would likely include navy blue, olive green, and camouflage prints.

Is the Technicals Volta Jacket Windproof?

With its tightly woven nylon shell and waterproof membrane, the Technicals Volta Jacket provides excellent wind resistance. The materials and construction block blustery winds from penetrating to your core.

The jacket’s athletic fit and adjustable cuffs and hem seal out gusts and prevent billowing. This allows you to retain body heat when winds kick up during high-altitude pursuits or water sports.

Wear the Volta Jacket over your base and midlayers to protect their insulating properties from wind chill. It helps maintain the microclimate next to your skin so you avoid rapid heat loss.

Technicals does not provide a specific windproof rating for the jacket. But field testing confirms its ability to block all but the strongest gales.

Is the Technicals Volta Jacket Breathable for Active Use?

A common downside of many affordable waterproof jackets is poor breathability leading to an overly stifling feel. However, Technicals built the Volta with their proprietary VoltaDry membrane to promote air circulation and venting.

The thin membrane prevents liquid water from entering while allowing water vapor molecules to escape. This modulation helps regulate body temperature during aerobic activities where you build up excess heat and sweat.

Underarm zip vents and mesh interior linings provide additional airflow channels. The athletic cut leaves room for evaporation off the base layers instead of soaking them.

Reviewers praise the Volta’s impressive breathability for the price point. It strikes the ideal balance for protecting against the elements without causing a sauna effect.

Can the Technicals Volta Jacket be Worn as a Layering Piece?

The Technicals Volta Jacket works extremely well as part of a layering system. It delivers wind and water protection without restricting mobility or adding bulk.

It’s ideal over a base layer like a moisture-wicking tee or long sleeve shirt. In cold weather, use it to seal in insulation from midlayers such as fleece or down.

The jacket fits trim but allows room to add or strip off layers as conditions dictate. Cinch down the hood and hems for maximum coverage during frigid winds. Open the vents and pull back the cuffs when building up excess heat.

Lightweight and minimalist, the Volta integrates seamlessly into all of your adventures. It packs so small you’ll forget you have it until the weather demands it.

How Durable Is the Technicals Volta Jacket for Long-Term Use?

Technicals constructed the Volta Jacket to endure years of outdoor use and abuse. The ripstop nylon shell resists scuffs, tears, and abrasions from repeated exposure to the elements and carrying in a pack.

Reinforced panels on the elbows and shoulders provide extra toughness where the jacket sees the most wear. DWR treatment helps the fabric shed moisture, dirt, and stains for improved longevity.

The waterproof membrane retains its abilities wash after wash. As long as you refrain from using fabric softeners or improper drying methods, the Volta remains breathable for the long haul.

Customers praise the jacket’s quality and construction. With proper care, expect your Technicals Volta Jacket to deliver reliable performance season after season.

Does the Technicals Volta Jacket Have Adjustable Features Like Cuffs and Hem?

To seal out the elements when you need it, the Technicals Volta Jacket incorporates several adjustable closure points. This customizable fit lets you batten down the hatches when the weather turns nasty.

The hook-and-loop cuff tabs allow you to snug the sleeves around your wrists as desired. You can wear them loose for ventilation or tightened over gloves to keep wind and moisture out.

An elastic drawcord cinches the hem tight to prevent updrafts from blowing up the jacket. Toggle adjusters at the waist customize the fit.

The multi-piece hood features both rear and forehead cordlocks so you can achieve the ideal protective seal around your head and face.

These adjustable features really enhance the Volta’s versatility across changing conditions in the outdoors. Get the right fit for whatever the day brings.

How Does the Technicals Volta Jacket Compare to Other Jackets in the Same Price Range?

When comparing the Technicals Volta Jacket to competitors in the $120 to $200 range, it holds its own against premium options.

The proprietary VoltaDry waterproof membrane matches up well against similar offerings from Marmot, Outdoor Research, and Patagonia. It provides reliable wet weather protection without a plastic feel or noise.

Packability and breathability rate on par with top hiking shells from brands like REI Co-Op and The North Face. You get usable features like an adjustable hood and underarm vents.

Pound for pound, the Volta delivers impressive quality and performance for the price point. Technicals doesn’t cut corners on materials or construction. It’s built to actually handle rigorous use for years of adventures.

Does the Technicals Volta Jacket Have Sealed Seams for Enhanced Waterproofing?

All of the seams on the Technicals Volta Jacket undergo sealing and taping during manufacturing. This bonds the stitch holes together into one continuous surface that keeps moisture from seeping through.

Taped seams prove especially important on a garment like the Volta intended for wet environments. Sealing prevents leaks where sections of fabric connect since needle holes can compromise waterproofness.

Don’t use any seam sealant or waterproofing sprays on the jacket, as these aftermarket products can actually interfere with breathability and performance. The factory taped seams deliver optimal waterproofing right off the shelf.

Can the Technicals Volta Jacket be Machine Washed?

Technicals recommends washing the Volta Jacket by hand using a non-detergent soap to preserve the DWR coating. However, you can safely machine wash the jacket when needed.

Turn it inside out first. Use a mild detergent without softeners or bleach. Wash on a gentle cycle using cold water, then hang dry away from direct heat. Avoid the dryer to prevent damage to the fabrics and membrane.

Periodically restoring the DWR treatment prolongs water beading and stain resistance. Reapply a wash-in DWR spray according to the product instructions when wetting out occurs.

With proper care and maintenance, expect years of quality performance from your Technicals Volta Jacket on all your wet weather adventures. This value-packed shell withstands the demands of the trail while protecting you from the elements.