Montane's New Reversible Microfleece

There's an interesting new lightweight fleece out from Montane this autumn which uses a two-faced - and we don't think they mean duplicitous - Polartec fabric to work either as a base or mid-layer top according to conditions.


The Balance Shirt uses Polartec® Classic Micro with Grid fabric and is constructed with flatlock seams making it wearable either way round. The idea is that with the grid section inwards, the top traps more air and provides greater insulation in cool conditions.

Then, once things warm up, you can reverse the Balance so that the normal fleece face is inwards where it traps less air and can wick more efficiently with a greater surface area in contact with the skin or baselayer.

Will it work? Only time will tell. In the past we've found the benefits of some reversible fabrics somewhat erm, overstated, but we're willing to be persuaded otherwise. Weight is claimed to be just 230 grammes for a medium, there's a zip-neck and Lycra-bound hem and cuffs.

The Balance Shirt is due in shops this month - September 2008 - and priced at £40. More details at www.montane.co.uk.