We've just got our paws on the Montane range guide for Winter
2004, or in Montane speak 'cold '04', don't take it too literally
though, since according to them, right now is 'hot '04'.
Anyway, 'cold '04' generally starts some time in September, and
now we have scoop pics, so here's an updated version of the original
article complete with photos of the new kit.
New eVENT
First, the range of / breathable eVENT kit has been expanded in
the expectation of even more rain. The existing Superfly
Jacket - has, as we told you when we tested the current
version, been tweaked. The wire-peaked hood's been expanded, so that
the jacket's now useable over a climbing helmet, making it a better
bet for lightweight alpine use and those with really silly hair
styles. New colours too and a weight of around 425 grammes.
(Below)
There's also a new
G-Force Smock - below -which, like
the Superfly is made from 3-ply eVENT and at 400 grammes is claimed
to be 'the lightest weight eVENT smock in the world'. To up its
versatility, it also has a helmet-sized rollaway hood, a chest pocket
and, for better fit and mobility, stretch panels at hips and elbows
made from FREEFLOW STRETCH 3-layer fabric. Price is expected to be
£160 for the G-Force and £200 for the Superfly.
For all over protection, you can also throw on a pair of the new
400-gramme
Spectra Pants again in 3-ply eVENT with reinforced
stretch panels on the seat, knee and ankle. Anyone who's had problems
finding lightweight shell pants with full-length zips for use with
crampons, skis or simply convenience will be glad to know that the
Spectra uses water-resistant zips with a waterproof flap behind for
the full length of both legs. Price should be £150.
Other Stuff
The eVENT kit is the real headline grabber, but there's some other
new stuff too. There's now a lightweight down jacket called the
Cocoon - below - featuring a wind- and water-resistant Pertex
Microlight shell stuffed with 200 grammes of 600+fill power down and
aimed at providing ultralightweight but effective insulation. Price
is £150. If you're planning to be out in wetter, wintery places,
the fully-taped, Lava jacket is the one to look at, it has the
same quantity of down but with a waterproof outer. Price
£175.
This year's lightweight windproof stuff from Montane was excellent
and the range is about to include a new cycling-specific top, the
Featherlite Velo in Pertex Microlight which has reflective
bits plus a deep, scooped rear for added protection and a full-length
zip with an all-in weight of just 100 grammes. Price is 40 quid.
Last but not least, the popular
Extreme Salopettes return by
popular demand, it says here. Using a combination of pile and Pertex,
they're probably not the best choice if you run hot, but should be
spot on for those hideous, cold, damp Scottish winter days when the
weather's out to get you... They also get new reinforced patches in
high-wear areas like knee, seat and ankle, plus full-length zips for
venting and potential escape when it all gets a little bit too hot.
At 900 grammes, they're not the lightest legwear out there, but they
do replace mid and outer layers with one garment. Price is
£150.
Web Site
The new kit's not yet up on Montane's web site and won't be in the
shops till next month we think, however for the current range, see
www.
montane.co.uk.
