Cortazu Mountain Hard Shell £350
Cortazu is a relative newcomer to the outdoor industry, but the Dutch brand has already made a big impact. The Mountain Hard Shell is its flagship waterproof, designed for a wide range of winter mountain activities.
Its rugged 70D nylon fabric contains 50% recycled fibres, backed with a Dermizax EV PU-based membrane. Cortazu claims waterproof-breathable performance of 25k/25k Hydrostatic Head and MVTR respectively, which puts this fabric up there with the best.
Durable and well-made, the jacket boasts multiple features, including a great wire-stiffened hood, integrated Cohaesive cord locks, AquaGuard zips and chunky cuff tabs for easy adjustment. It even incorporates a RECCO avalanche safety reflector. There are also pit zips for venting and a laminated area on the upper shoulders to resist abrasion from pack straps.
There are 9 pockets, including a stretchy inner mesh pocket and two zipped forearm pockets, one of which includes a handy microfibre cloth. The generous cut leaves plenty of room for layering and the hemline is longer than most.
IF WE’RE BEING FUSSY
The hand pockets are low, so are obstructed by a hipbelt. The main zips are only fitted with one-way zipper pulls. At the time of writing, Brexit had stopped Cortazu shipping to the UK. If not yet resolved, it’s available at webtogs.com
■ MEN’S SIZES XS-XXL
■ WOMEN’S SIZES XS-XXL
■ WEIGHT 620g (men’s M)
■ FABRIC 70D x 140D Dermizax EV (100% nylon face fabric with 50% recycled content)
Verdict
A rugged and protective waterproof jacket with plenty of features, this is an all-rounder for hillwalking, mountaineering and snow sports.