In this review I’m taking a look at the Stio Second Light Windshell, a minimalist jacket from an environmentally-conscious, Tetons-based brand, that’s designed for the adventurer who values versatility and lightweight protection, which is ideal for a wide range of activities and particularly well suited to being worn for running and hiking.
With its ultralight design and innovative features, this jacket is intended for those who seek to explore and enjoy being outdoors, no matter the weather.
The Key Specifications
- Price: $119 at Stio.com in men’s and women’s versions
- Sizing and fit: Regular fit (in men’s and women’s fits and color options) although this windshell is definitely on the ‘athletic fit’ side of regular
- Best for: Windproof and protection from light precipitation for running, hiking and any other activity you can think of where a packable windshell would be valuable to have with you.
Features of the Stio Second Light Windshell that I really like
Having a protective windshell to keep windchill and light drizzle or rain off your upper body is pretty much essential for every runner, but the key to comfort and performance when running is to make sure that the jacket fits you well and performs as expected so you can stay warm and relatively dry but with a level of breathability to allow sweat to escape.
Leveling up from those basic windshell essentials is a jacket that looks great, has a comfortable hood, is lightweight and packable, and doesn’t make a ton of rustling noise when you run, which can get annoying very quickly.
The Stio Second Light Windshell does all the basics and more, so it’s well-suited to runners looking for a packable windshell that you can be confident in.
Plus, it’s made with 100% recycled nylon with a PFAS-free DWR finish, which helps resist light precipitation and block wind. The nylon fabric is a trademarked blend that also has a degree of stretch to it, which definitely adds to the overall comfort when worn during my runs.
Other thoughtful features that you don’t find on all windshells include the partial elastic cuffs with hidden thumb loops that keep sleeves in place, a low-profile hood and adjustable hem. There’s also draft flap behind the zipper to help provide all-round wind protection.
Importantly, the hood offers good peripheral visibility, which is particularly important when running around roads and in urban areas (although it helps to keep your head on a swivel on the trails, too, especially in mountain lion country!).
Speaking of seeing and being seen, there are also reflective details on the front and back – on the Stio and pinecone logos on the front, and a reflective strip on the windshell’s back.
For stashing in your running hydration vest or a backpack when hiking, you can pack it away into its own pocket, or stuff it into your bag – it will emerge a little crinkled but ready for action when you need it. Check out the photo below to see just how small the Second Light windshell packs down.
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Lastly, I want to call out the color options. I love the lime green (‘river reed’) colorway of my women’s Stio windshell. The men’s windshell color options are also nice, including navy, grey, and my favorite, ‘vibrant sunset’, which is a bright orange.
Features that I feel could be improved
There’s very little to fault with this runner-friendly windbreaker from Stio. It represents great value, looks great, and performs well in all the areas you’d want it to for a wind shell.
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I do, however, want to point out one thing about this windproof jacket, that it’s just that… it’s not a fully waterproof rain jacket. If you wear it in heavy precipitation, or for prolonged periods of time in wet conditions, then at some point it’s going to get saturated and will no longer keep you dry.
So, while this is the same for pretty much any windproof, water-resistant jacket out there, though, it is something to bear in mind if you’re looking for a truly waterproof running jacket. If you are, then read our buyer’s guide to waterproof running jackets for our current recommendations.
Review summary
The Second Light Windshell is available to buy directly from Stio for $119 in men’s and women’s sizes and colorways, using the buttons below:
Stio Second Light Windshell – image gallery
