If I had to pick between the two, the Uberlayer is my first choice every time. They first perfected it with the Uberlayer, and then added a similar jacket. Outside Magazine says Outdoor Research perfected the mid layer with the Ascendant, but I disagree. It takes forever for me to warm up, so having the Ascendant as an extra layer really helps. I also love it for gym climbing in the winter. The fuzzies (as opposed to polyester ripstop) are much more comfortable when you’re festering in an office environment. The Polartec Alpha Direct Insulation with its fuzzy lining is one thing that I wish more companies did! I wear it over a t-shirt on most days and work up a sweat by the time I get in the office. It’s enough insulation without being too warm. The Ascendant Hoody is generally my go-to for warmer weather commuting. The Ascendant Hoody weighs approximately 10.9 oz. The fit is trim, but you can still fit a baselayer or even another lightweight jacket underneath. The jacket features three pockets: two hand warmers and one zippered chest pocket. When it’s really chilly, thumb loops keep your sleeves in place over your hands. The hood is helmet compatible I’ve pulled it over my bike helmet to protect my cold ears many times. When it’s breezy out, the Ascendant Hoody blocks the wind from reaching your core. When it starts to sprinkle unexpectedly, the Ascendant Hoody is water resistant. It is non-restricting and moves and breathes with you. The insulation is Polartec® Alpha® Direct Insulation 100% polyester#95 g/m2. The outer is constructed with Pertex® Microlight 100% nylon 20D ripstop stretch woven shell. The Ascendant Hoody is another piece in Outdoor Research’s active insulation line, and active insulation it is. Last spring, the Ascendant Hoody popped onto the line-up, as the Uberlayer’s lightweight little sister. To this day, it’s still one of the pieces that I reach for the most. In 2015, Outdoor Research introduced the Uberlayer Hoody to its line up of puffies.

Outdoor research uberlayer xxl