Mou■tai■ Equipme■t Superflux/Fuse £180

■ I■su●atio■ Polarloft Featherless insulation by 3M ■ Me■’s S-XXL (Superflux) ■ Wome■’s 8-16 (Fuse) ■ Weight 521g (size L)

IT'S GOOD

The Polarloft Featherless insulation used here is made by 3M and has a blown construction to form small particles, thereby increasing insulation, softness and breathability. The outer is Mountain Equipment’s own Drilite Loft (a water-resistant nylon). You get a hem drawcord and a hood with good adjustment at the back. The two pockets are nice and deep too. Overall this provides a good level of warmth for the hill yet it’s not quite as heavy as some others, which is a real benefit. The hood is not big enough to fit over a helmet, as some are, but it moves well with the head.

HOWEVER

The hood only has rear drawcords and does not fit quite as neatly as some of those with additional face drawcords. Also, it does not enclose the sides of the face quite as nicely either, so it feels a touch more chilly. The cuffs don’t have any adjustment apart from elastication. While the fit of the sleeves is very acceptable, it is not quite as good as the best here and there’s a slight movement in the cuffs and hem when raising the arms. The slightly heavier jackets are a little bit warmer and those with more baffles just fit the body more closely. That is a big price tag too.

VERDICT

A jacket that is ideal for most hillwalkers, but the fit of the hood and sleeves is not quite the best. However the weight for performance ratio is good.