ptc*
Reviewed: 26 January 2008
SURPRISED
The weight is frighteningly low, but it feels quite robust. The hood is a proper mountain hood with lower face coverage, good shape on the peak and great movement. The cut is slim and it doesn't seem ride up when walking or running. It's the most breathable Paclite jacket I've used, it still gets shiny on the inside when you're working hard, but the lack of seams makes a huge difference as they're much fewer non-breathable points where the condensation really gathers. It makes it very pleasant to wear all day.
The wee pocket is handy for snacks or a Buff, and is the least breathable bit on the jacket. It's easy to remove as well should you feel the need...
The hood peak is soft if high winds. I fixed mine by inserting a length of plastic coated speaker wire into the stitching channel on the front of the peak. It's now fine and takes 60mph winds without flattening against ny forehead as I'm blown sideways into the scenery.
This is more me than the Oz, but the arms could be a little longer for tree swingers limbs. This is only when using the thumbloops though, I can't get a full stretch upwards using them. I'm fine in their LIM Ultimate though.
I love it. I'm also very surprised to be saying that. I've been wearing it on most of my trips this winter and it's working well. We've been practicing ice axe arrests and the like and there's not a scratch on the fabric so far.
Do the hood modification (email me for details!) and it's a year round jacket. Paclite? Pah, it doesn't matter that it's usually the equivalent of wearing a bin liner, here it works very well indeed.
The green is now discontinued, but the new black version will bes a good I'm sure.
