James Bartlett
Reviewed: 06 January 2010
OVERALL, BRILLIANT COAT, WORTH EVERY PENNY !
Very Lightweight, sub 400g's.
Very Breathable, eVent fabric works very well.
Three large pockets, fit OS map easily.
Incredile hood, really well designed.
Reinforced areas, no sign of wear or rubbing.
Proper velcro cuffs !
Waterproof zips.
Very compact when packed.
Zips are a little stiff, not big problem.
Fit is slightly odd, between the Latok and the Bergen.
Pockets can leak, but doesn't enter iside of the jacket.
Overall it's a brilliant coat, and worth every penny.
It came flat packed in a large envelpope, its very very light, at 400g's. This lightness is seen in its packing ability, its very easy to pack down small, which is ideal for day hiking.
The fabric is the ultra breathable eVent, and its really works. I've worked it really hard, and to date i've not even become slightly uncomftable, sweaty or stuffy. There is also areas of reinforced fabric, on areas of high stress. These work very well, and have not shown wear or rubbing.
The three large pockets are more than large enough for an OS ap, plus compass, route plan and gloves and hat, and buff.... etc etc . The zips are waterproof, although a litte stiff, but thats not a big problem. One thing thats not quite perfect is the pockets waterproofness, after really long periods of heavy rain, the inside pockets were damp, this caused the paper i had inside to become damp. However, this dampness did not enter the inside of the jacket, and overall really isn't that bigger deal.
The hood has got to be the best feature on the jacket. It's incredile, very well designed. Easy to use, even with gloves on and very adjustable. It also rolls away easily. The peak is more than adiquate, and keeps all rain at bay.
The velcro cuffs are a blessing, really velcro-y.
