As I am always saying, the Swedes don't half make some attractive (if expensive) kit, the Albaron Jacket is no exception. I'll start with the fabric, GTX Pro Shell, which has good wind-resistancy (due to PU coating over GTX membrane) plus good breathability. Next comes the hood, 'tick' verticle and horizontal adjustments, good wire frame, helmet compatible. It has shoulder 'print' for extra-looking durability (but which do very little) over the shoulder areas.... The zips are sprayproof YKK which is also a plus... but that's not the interesting point about this jacket, it's the fact that the zipper pockets run from chest height all the way down to lower pocket height. Now you're thinking WHAT?? and quite rightly. They're 2-way zips apparently to convert the pockets into any pockets you choose- High breast pockets for climbing, low ones for walking etc. I have a few qualms with this 'technology' 1: two-way zips don't fully close so extreme levels of water will allow water (eventually) in (this is the problem with most two-way zips pit zips too, which are on this jacket- and many others). 2: the zips are laminated = stiffer than Pro shell = ridges in jacket = not easy to use when active. 3: I want 3 pockets if it's a multi-use jacket so I'm not sticking my hands in my jacket for warmth and feeling my map, or my GPS- It's just not that comfy. There are other jackets with this kind of zip-system, and I didn't like them then, sorry, just 'in the field' it's just not practicle, and rather annoying. Also I like a double drawcord hem, and this is single.
Plus side to this jacket? Weight, a very reasonable 440g, good sleeves- shaped perfectly with velcro adjustable sleeves, pro-shell GTX fabric, excellent hood, excellent fit for the slimmer build, and great two-tone shell that seems sturdy and durable. But at RRP £330 there are certainly cheaper, and better designed jackets on the market, and from Mammut- the Fitzroy Jacket (Schoeller 3-layer adaptive regulate temp. fabric) breeches the gap between hard/soft shell and at RRP £370 (I've seen it in several places for below an incredible £300) is well worth the splash of cash!)
a light and technical 3-layer GORE-TEX® top jacket for alpinists, suitable for a wide range of applications.
SPECS:
A light and technical 3-layer Pro Shell GORE-TEX Jacket for alpinists, suitable for a wide range of applications.
Fabric: GORE-TEX® Pro Shell® 3-Layer
Technical and light weather protection jacket offering reliable protection in high alpine terrain
New hood design, can be adjusted vertically and horizontally, helmet-compatible
2 large front pockets with 2-way zips
Underarm ventilation with 2-way zip
Drawcord hem, adjustable using one hand
Shoulder print
Adjustable hem
Pre-shaped sleeves with Velcro cuffs
Sprayproof YKK zippers
Suitable for Skitouring / Backcountry Skiing, Multipitch Rockclimbing, Via Ferrata, Mountain Hiking, Mixed- and Iceclimbing
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