Montane Featherlite Down Women's Jacket

Product Information

Fill power: A higher fill power means that a given weight of down occupies more volume, and thus insulates more effectively. Unfortunately there are two different testing standards, which give non-equivalent values. EU-rated down is superior to US-rated down of the same quoted fill power, but it's not always clear which standard a brand is using. We've assumed parity in this review. At 430g (size L) the Microlight Summit is towards the heavier end of this review, but we think this is a fair reflection of its long cut, fill weight and features. This one is warmer than most. We’re particularly impressed by the eco credentials of the Nordic Expedition as it’s made from bluesign approved fabrics, the down fill is certified by the Responsible Down Standard and the DWR treatment is PFC-free. What’s more, Haglöfs as a brand is a leading member of the Fair Wear Foundation and is a certified climate-neutral company. In very cold conditions around freezing point, I used it wearing while hiking and had no problems with sweat.

Montane Sale | Montane Outlet - Nevisport Montane Sale | Montane Outlet - Nevisport

Underarm vents which open and close with movement to allow increased airflow across the core body and aid temperature regulationIn similar freezing conditions hanging around camp, it kept me warm with a light fleece layer underneath. Bluesign approved fabrics / Responsible Down Standard approved / PFC-free DWR treatment / premium 800 Fill Power goose down / Mimic Platinum insulation / 3-layer zoned waterproof-breathable face fabrics / hydrostatic head: 15,000mm / moisture vapour transmission rate: 10,000g/m2/24hrs / front panel straps / helmet-compatible hood / two-way main zip / ISPO gold winner / Scandinavian Outdoor Award winner / climate neutral-company.

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Water resistant-treated down is common nowadays, and we think that for UK use in particular it's well worth seeking out since it allows the down to maintain its loft (ie. go on working to insulate) for longer in damp conditions. We've considered the use of hydrophobic down a plus point in this review. With the elastic snugged up around the bum there is no hem lift at all when the arms are raised, and no pull around the armpits. Even with the elastic not done up at all there is minimal hem lift. That might be the Fowler influence - they must have designed the Ramche very much with climbers in mind. What was once the Arc’teryx Cerium LT is now the Cerium Hoody. There are a couple of updates, with new colourways, different ingredient fabrics and perhaps most notably a new liner that’s derived from natural materials (castor bean oil). Constructed from lightweight and wind resistant 20 denier Wind Barrier Dynamic which has stretch properties and excellent breathability All of these items were used out in the field by our team of testers who you can see in all of the pictures within this round up. The locations we tested them included Snowdonia, the Brecon Beacons, the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands and we were out using them from early autumn through to late spring.

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The outer fabric needs to be light to allow the fill to loft, but also reasonably durable. Crucially, it should be down-proof to ensure your expensive fill stays where it's supposed to. A DWR treatment will help the insulation stay dry for longer, and we've favoured more weather-proof fabrics in this review.

Montane - Outdoorkit Montane - Outdoorkit

When it comes to cut it's made with walking in mind, not climbing or scrambling, as there's a whole lot of hem lift when moving your arms above your head. This puts it at the less technical end of the spectrum, more for casual recreational use, summit stops on hillwalking days and general hanging out than for anything technical. The final notes on fit come from the adjustability around the hem and hood, which both have elastication to modify fit according to size, taste, and weather. Commendably, Montane use ethically sourced down throughout their down range, and claim to be the first brand in the world to commit to the Responsible Down Standard across their entire catalogue.The Featherlite features Montane's 'regular' fit. Essentially, it isn't baggy, it isn't tight, it sits perfectly in the middle. It's designed to be worn fairly snugly to prevent heat loss, however you can easily fit a midweight fleece underneath if you feel the cold. The Featherlite can either be used as a heavyweight midlayer with a shell over the top in foul conditions, however it works just as effectively as a mid-weight outer layer in cold, dry conditions.