1. OUTDOOR RESEARCH FACTOR
When staying cool is key, grab this smart hybrid. Highly breathable Polartec Power Stretch panels on the sides and under the arms kept me comfortable on a 1,500-foot scramble to the summit of Little Annapurna, in Washington's Enchantment Lakes Basin. During an early-winter storm, the Hardface-treated Wind Pro on the Factor's torso easily shed snow, and the drawcord hem kept the flakes from sneaking in at the waist. It's not quite as warm as Patagonia's Granular, but it's also not as heavy. Demerit: The collar could stand to be a tad taller. $169; www.orgear.com

2. EIDER WINDFACE
Not surprisingly, warm jackets tend to lose mobility because of their bulk. But this toasty rule breaker defies conventional wisdom, offering both excellent stretch and an athletic cut. The Windface easily moved in every direction while I was bouldering, but its warmth nearly matches that of the heavier Granular and Moto. A full complement of Hardface Wind Pro repels breezes and squalls, smartly hidden wrist cuffs block spindrift, and a cinch collar seals in warmth at the neck. One quibble: The elasticized hem sometimes rode up when I reached for a hold. $198; www.eider-world.com

3. MOUNTAIN HARDWEAR MOTO
Tired of standard-issue alpine style? The Moto's cut and stitching so faithfully imitate a leather motorcycle jacket that all it's missing is a hell on wheels patch. Of all the Hardface jackets tested here, the Moto uses the heaviest-weight fleece, with a funky dobby-knit exterior. The fabric boosts warmth but also increases heft and stiffness. And though the Moto has skier-appropriate additions like Power Stretch cuffs and drawcords at the neck and hem, it's cut high, like motorcycle riders favor—which means it can ride up during a fall. $150; www.mountainhardwear.com