FAST PACKING

Unless you’ve been living under a rock (and while you might have spent a night or had lunch there, you probably wouldn’t give it as your permanent address), you’ve probably come across the phrase ‘fast packing’. New gear designs have been launched under this banner, mostly of the lightweight variety. These are garments designed to be used in combination for maximum performance, that won’t weigh your pack down when not required. Montane’s new Fleet hard shell and Future Lite mid layer are great examples of products that function superbly as standalone items, but that can be used together for even greater flexibility.

MONTANE FLEET JACKET £270

This waterproof shell uses two types of Gore-Tex membrane for the perfect balance of weatherresistance, weight and breathability, Active Shell in the main body for breathable performance, and 40 denier ripstop reinforcement fabric in the shoulders and hips for durability. The Fleet is tailored with a close fit, and features articulated arms for freedom of movement and adjustable hem and cuffs to reduce weather ingress. The net result is a durable lightweight shell that’s ideal for mountain activities where body temperature and moisture control are essential for comfort.

MONTANE FUTURE LITE £165

Sleek and minimalist in design, the Future Lite is a micro baffled down jacket that uses responsiblysourced and water-resistant down, and has been created specifically as a mid layer. If conditions suit, the 15D nylon ripstop outer with a DWR (durable water-repellent coating) means it can be worn as a standalone layer. But its anatomical fit means it can also be worn under a shell without sacrificing comfort or mobility. And if the weather’s warm enough that it’s no longer required, the Future Lite stuffs into its own pocket for convenient stowage in your pack. www.montane.co.uk