On February 15, 2024, Columbia Sportwear watched as their Omni-Heat Infinity tech played a role in a historic moment for lunar travel as it insulated Intuitive Machine’s Nova-C lander against the extreme temperatures of outer space.
Columbia has experimented with space blanket technology since they debuted Omni-Heat in 2010, and now in its third iteration, Omni-Heat Infinity is bringing the evolution of the technology full circle.
Featured in more than 100 Columbia products, the heat-reflective materials used to keep people warm is built from the same basic components as the multi-layer insulation blankets used to protect parts of the spacecraft.
Down here on earth, the fruits of this scientific partnership have already resulted in new products including the Highland Summit Jacket (for women or men).
We like the Highland Summit Jacket because it’s versatile for use on-resort and in the sidecountry. Thanks to the pit-zips and the breathability of Omni-Heat Infinity, the jacket dumps heat better than most jackets with this level of insulation. So you can take a detour off the piste and not end up boiling when you have to work hard to hike your way out of a ravine.
When the weather is cold and windy at the top of the mountain, the tough-but-lightweight waterproof Omni-Tech seam-sealed shell stops wind in its tracks and the 60 grams of Microtemp XF II (85% recycled) insulation combined with the Omni-Heat Infinity reflective tech, your body heat is retained and reflected back to you.
The jacket doesn’t promise as much warmth as a down equivalent but in the extreme cold you can layer up underneath with wool and fleece—and you’ll always breathe better in the Highland Summit.
Ski-friendly details include multi-functional pockets (including pass pocket); adjustable/helmet-compatible hood; adjustable outer cuffs plus stretchy inner cuffs; adjustable hem and powder cuff; cozy chin-guard; PU-coated waterproof zipper; and a generous drop tail.
Highland Summit Bib Pants
The corresponding Highland Summit Bib ski pant (available for women and men) is ready for the worst weather—and let’s face it, our winters are better than ever at dishing it out. You can go from messy and wet to icy and cold in the space of 24 hours, and this is where the bib thrives. With a waterproof-breathable Omni-Tech shell and an Omni-Heat Infinity lining, the bib will keep you comfortable all day, any day. Plus: Microtemp XF II insulation works in tandem with the Omni-Heat Infinity to keep you cozy during the coldest laps but never overheated. We also appreciate the tough reinforced cuff guards, multiple well-placed pockets, articulated knees and Rebound Stretch shell that allows for maximum range of movement. The bib offers lots of adjustability in the waist, straps and cuffs, too.
Arch Rock Double Wall Elite Hooded Jacket
The Arch Rock (available for women and men) is a new jacket for cold-weather hiking or all-around use. Though quite thickly insulated, it is also very lightweight and water-resistant. The thermal-reflective lining (Double Wall Elite construction enhanced with two layers of our beloved Omni Heat Infinity) keeps warmth in, blocks wind, and stays breathable. We like the trusty zippered chest and hand pockets, and the snug binding at the hood and adjustable hem. It is not advertised as a ski jacket but we skied in it, and did a bit of touring, with good results. Ie, we didn’t overheat on the bootpack, and felt protected and warm on the downslope.
Men’s Expeditionist Shield Boot
These rugged, versatile boots are warm and protective with the same thermal-reflective lining as the above pieces, plus 200g of insulation and Omni-Tech waterproof-breathable construction. For extra-wet conditions, the waterproof suede leather upper is combined with a modern scratch rubber duck boot for serious long-term water blocking. And this boot is comfortable like your favourite hiker; the midsole cushioning is soft underfoot, yet still highly responsive to add extra spring to your step. Meanwhile, the powerhouse Adapt Trax outsole provides exceptional traction on all terrain, in wet or dry conditions. A women’s equivalent is the Moritza Shield Omni-Heat Boot.
Check the ML Podcast!
