Montane Shell Ranges Explained
Jan 29, 2026
Incorporating reliable waterproof protection, breathable fabrics as well as lightweight, packable designs, Montane's waterproof jackets combine comfort with protection. In short, a Montane waterproof jacket helps you focus on breaking new boundaries, no matter what the weather throws at you.
Browse Montane's range of waterproof jackets and choose from a range of options to find the waterproof shell that suits your adventure needs best. Whether fast packing, hiking or climbing – we’re sure we have a waterproof jacket to keep you dry in the mountains. Below we've outlined the differences in each shell range and what they are best suited for.
Montane Shell Family Naming Structure
XT
The XT range has been designed to be tougher, more technical and with an extended feature set for tough mountain use.
XT products have been designed for mountaineering activities such as alpine climbing, Scottish winter days, mountain scrambling and gnarly days out on the hill. This range usually has our‘mountain fit’ which has been cut to accommodate additional layers and added tailoring for high-reach movements and colder conditions.
Lite
Lite products use lighter materials and optimized features for moving faster.
Our Lite products have been designed for fast and light days out whether you are fastpacking, hiking, trail running, lightweight mountaineering or moving in warmer conditions. Across our Lite range, you will find our trim fit, which is closer fitting for fast-moving and high-output adventures.
Nano
Nano products are all about high-performance materials, minimalist feature sets, low weight and tiny pack sizes without compromising on functionality.
In the category, we have the lightest appropriate weight with an optimized feature set for fast and light mountain activities such as fast packing, trail running, ultra-running and podium racing. Throughout this range you will find our trim and next to skin fits which are close-fitting and offer superior comfort and performance advantages.
Solution
The Montane Solution Jacket redefines eco-conscious waterproof clothing, combining impressive sustainability credentials with dependable performance and durability for outdoor enthusiasts.
This jacket is crafted from 50-denier Pertex Shield Revolve fabric, incorporating recycled polyester across its three-layer construction. The durable 50D face fabric offers excellent resistance to abrasion, making it well-suited for regular outdoor use in rugged environments. It provides reliable waterproofing with a hydrostatic head of 20,000mm. The solution-dyed fabric reduces water and energy use during production. It ensures long-lasting colour retention, while the PFC-free DWR finish delivers effective water repellency without the environmental harm of traditional chemicals.
Its design focuses on essential features for functionality and comfort. A close-fitting hood with a reinforced peak shields against rain, while articulated sleeves, adjustable cuffs, and a hem ensure ease of movement and a secure fit. Two large front pockets—and I mean large, they are huge—stand out for their versatility. They function as storage or ventilation with dual-sliding water-resistant zips. The jacket is lightweight and packs quickly at 436g (size M), making it an excellent year-round option.
HH 20,000 mm, Pertex Shield Revolve, MVTR 15000g/m2/24 hrs, 50D Ripstop, Men's Jacket Weigh: 436g (Medium) & Men's Pants Weigh: 309g (Medium)
● The 50-denier PERTEX SHIELD REVOLVE® outer of the Montane Men’s Solution Jacket has been designed to be 100% recycled with a PFC-free DWR. The plain weave fabric has been solution dyed, which means it uses 50% less water to manufacture, and less energy, for a timeless waterproof jacket.
● The Jacket has two front pockets have recycled YKK NATULON® zips with dual sliders. These have been designed so that the pockets can adapt into large vents, improving the breathability of the jacket, for fast-paced efforts in the mountains, when dumping heat is crucial.
Cetus Lite
The Montane Cetus Lite Petrichor Jacket balances eco-conscious design and high-performance protection; it features Montane's unique PETRICHOR technology, a 3-layer system combining a non-porous, hydrophilic membrane, recycled nylon ripstop outer, and durable tricot inner. The fabric effectively wicks away moisture, maintaining breathability even during strenuous activity, which is particularly impressive given the absence of pit zips; with a 20,000mm hydrostatic head and RET <5 breathability, the Cetus Lite is exceptionally suited to long, wet days in unpredictable conditions.
Notably, the Petrichor fabric is soft and pliable, lacking the noisy, crinkly feel typical of waterproof shells, making it exceptionally comfortable. The lightweight design (weighing approximately 309g for a medium) means it packs down easily, an ideal choice for unpredictable British weather. The durable water repellent (DWR) treatment, free from harmful PFAS and fluorocarbons, requires regular upkeep, especially under heavy use, to maintain water-beading quality. Routine washes and reproofing with technical products ensure optimal performance, helping the jacket resist wetting out during prolonged exposure.
The Cetus Lite’s fit is functional yet spacious enough to allow layering, and the extended back and articulated sleeves enhance comfort during hikes. The fully adjustable hood provides excellent protection without hindering peripheral vision, while the Aquaguard zips on the main zip and hand pockets add to its overall waterproof integrity. Although the hand pocket placement may be slightly inconvenient when wearing a backpack with a waist belt, this is a minor trade-off considering the jacket’s overall design and utility.
HH 20,000 mm, Petrichor 3 Layer, RET <5, 21D Ripstop, Men's Weighs: 309g (Medium) & Women's Weighs: 300g (UK)
● YKK Aquaguard Weather-proofed zip for a versatile fit.
● Non-fluorocarbon DWR: Coating on face fabric applied to bead and shed moisture.
● Petrichor Technology™ 3-Layer 100% waterproof (20,000 Hydrostatic Head) and exceptionally breathable (RET <5).
● Offset seam intersections improve construction, durability and comfort.
● Laminated peak, hems and cuff tabs reduce seams, weight and improve durability.
● Fully adjustable hood offers precision full adjustment and unhindered vision.
● Articulated sleeves with grown on hook and loop adjustment.
Cetus
Montane’s Cetus Petrichor Jacket is a lightweight, high-performance waterproof designed for fast-moving days in the mountains. Weighing around 398 grams, it balances weather protection with excellent breathability, making it a solid choice for hillwalkers and those tackling changeable conditions.
The jacket is built with Montane’s PETRICHOR 3-layer technology and boasts a 20,000mm hydrostatic head for waterproofing while maintaining an impressive breathability rating (<5 RET). The recycled nylon ripstop fabric is soft and flexible, avoiding the stiff, crinkly feel of some hardshells, while offset seams and a tailored fit allow for unrestricted movement.
The fully adjustable hood offers excellent coverage with a laminated peak for extra structure, ensuring clear visibility. YKK AquaGuard zips, hand pockets, and internal chest pocket provide reliable water resistance, while the laminated hem and cuffs add durability without unnecessary bulk.
Some may miss pit zips for added ventilation, but the fabric’s breathability handles moisture well, even during high-output activities. The jacket also packs down small, making it easy to stow in a rucksack when not in use.
HH 20,000 mm, Petrichor 3 Layer, RET <5, 30D Ripstop, Men's Jacket Weighs: 398g (Medium) & Women's Jacket Weighs: 370g (UK)
Men's Pants Weigh: 314g (medium) Women's Pants Weigh: 310g (UK12)
● Internal pocket and external hand pockets with weather protection
Adjustable hem.
● Fully adjustable hem for a comfortable fit.
● Petrichor Technology™ 3-Layer Waterproof (20,000mm Hydrostatic Head) and exceptionally breathable (<7 RET).
● Fully adjustable hood offers precision adjustment and unhindered vision.
● Laminated peak, hems and cuff tabs reduce seams, weight and improve durability.
● Offset seam intersections improve construction, durability and comfort.
● Articulated sleeves with grown on hook and loop adjustment.
Phase Lite
The Phase Lite combines a Gore-Tex ePE membrane with a 40-denier recycled nylon face, giving a solid blend of protection, durability and comfort. The ePE membrane is Gore’s newer, PFAS-free technology that delivers the same waterproof and windproof performance as traditional Gore-Tex while reducing environmental impact and improving overall breathability.
The fit is close but allows a light mid-layer underneath, with good articulation through the arms and shoulders. Adjustment at the hem, cuffs and hood is straightforward, and the overall tailoring feels precise without restriction.
Weather protection is excellent, keeping out persistent rain and wind. Breathability is strong for a full three-layer shell, effectively managing heat and moisture during long climbs. The fabric is soft and quiet, avoiding the stiffness often found in lighter hardshells, while the finish is robust enough for regular mountain use.
The pocket layout works cleanly with a harness or pack, and details such as the laminated brim and minimal seam lines show careful design.
HH 28,000 mm, Gore-Tex ePE, RET<13, 40D Ripstop, Men's Weighs: 351g (Medium) & Women's Weighs: 330g (UK)
● Gore-Tex ePE technology, with no intentional use of PFAS chemicals (28,000mm hydrostatic head, RET < 13).
● Helmet compatible hood system with integrated mountain safe adjustment points.
● Sew-Free Construction Bonded pockets and zip installs reduce construction and weight.
● Breathable Air-Line pocket liners, reduced fabric and seam taping give you maximum breathability and performance.
● Offset Seams Improve construction, durability and comfort.
● Adjust hood, hems and cuffs for complete protection.
Torren
The Montane Petrichor 3L Jacket offers exceptional protection for those who tackle mountain weather head-on. Built with Montane’s PETRICHOR technology, this jacket delivers impressive waterproofing, with a 20,000 mm hydrostatic head and RET <7 breathability, designed to keep you dry while minimising internal condensation. This balance is enhanced by generous two-way pit zips, allowing heat to escape on uphill stretches, so you stay comfortable even under a full pack.
PETRICHOR technology combines a non-porous hydrophilic membrane with a recycled Nylon 30D Ripstop outer and a durable tricot inner lining. The membrane actively manages moisture by transporting it away from the body, making it highly breathable even during intense activities. Furthermore, PETRICHOR TECHNOLOGY™ is environmentally conscious, entirely PFAS-free and treated with a non-fluorocarbon DWR finish.
The jacket’s minimalistic design houses several thoughtful features for the active hiker. The helmet-compatible hood, easily adjusted with three toggles, is a welcome addition for climbers and mountain walkers. This design also proves convenient for glasses wearers, creating a dry, clear space in heavy rain. The harness-friendly pockets are spacious enough for essentials. At the same time, the two-way Aquaguard main zip allows for quick adjustments on the move, which is ideal for quickly dumping heat.
Fit-wise, the jacket is tailored with layering in mind. Its generous cut allows room for base and mid-layers. Articulated sleeves and Velcro-adjustable cuffs to maintain a snug fit. However, the sleeves may feel long for some.
HH 20,000 mm, Petrichor 3 Layer, RET <7, 30D Ripstop, Men's Weighs: 418g (Medium) & Women's Weighs: 389g (UK)
● Two-way, YKK Aquaguard zip for technical adjustability.
● Fluorocarbon-Free DWR Coating on face fabric applied to bead and shed moisture.
● Offset seam intersections improve construction, durability and comfort.
● Laminated peak, hems and cuff tabs reduce seams, weight and improve durability.
● Engineered with optimum arm lift for mountain activities and technical movements in mind.
● Fully adjustable mountain hood offers helmet compatibility, precision full adjustment and unhindered vision.
● Articulated sleeves with grown on hook and loop adjustment.
● Pit zip ventilation offers adaptable moisture management.
Spirit Long
The Spirit Long offers serious wet-weather protection without feeling cumbersome. The longer cut is its standout feature: I wear a large size, and the hem sits just above my knee, keeping the upper legs and seat well protected when conditions turn foul. The fit is regular and works well over a fleece or light insulated layer. The hood adjusts at two points, around the face and the crown, allowing a secure fit in wind and rain. The cuffs close with a hook-and-pull fastening.
The Gore-Tex ePE membrane is Gore’s new PFAS-free technology, offering the same waterproof and windproof performance as previous generations while reducing environmental impact and maintaining good breathability. The 75-denier recycled polyester face fabric gives a reassuringly solid feel, adding durability for daily use.
This is not a jacket aimed at steep climbs or high-output movement, but for low-level routes, wet commutes, or dog walks, it performs exceptionally well. The extended length and brushed backer enhance comfort in prolonged rain, and the weather protection is consistent and dependable.
HH 28,000 mm, Gore-Tex ePE, RET<6, 75D Ripstop, Men's Weighs: 550g (Medium) & Women's Weighs: 521g (UK)
● GORE-TEX ePE technology, with no intentional use of PFAS chemicals (28,000mm hydrostatic head, RET <20)
● Laminated Construction: Peak, hems and cuff tabs laminated to reduce seams and weight while boosting durability.
● Adjustable hood system with separate aperture and crown adjustment
● Offset Seams: Improve construction, durability and comfort.
● 2-way YKK Aquaguard Natulon zip
● BARRIER TECHNOLOGY Prevents water ingress.
● Adjustable hems and cuffs for complete protection.
Duality
The Montane Duality Gore-Tex Insulated Jacket is a top-tier choice for winter protection. It blends the weatherproofing of a hard shell with the warmth of synthetic insulation. The Gore-Tex ePE outer layer, rated at an impressive 28,000mm hydrostatic head, pairs with Primaloft Silver insulation to keep you dry and warm without added bulk. I value Montane’s environmentally conscious approach, using 100% recycled polyester insulation and a PFC-free DWR coating on the shell.
Designed for harsh conditions, the jacket’s features provide thorough weather protection—a high-collared adjustable hood and extended-length shield against wind and rain. At the same time, articulated sleeves and hook-and-loop adjustments ensure excellent freedom of movement. With YKK Aquaguard-covered pockets and a full-length front zip, I can trust my essentials stay dry even in downpours. The body-mapped insulation is another highlight, providing warmth where it’s needed most without restricting movement.
At around 652 grams for the medium size, it offers winter-ready protection that remains comfortable for all-day wear. While it has a slightly “crinkly” sound, this minor detail doesn’t detract from the jacket’s overall performance. Ideal for unpredictable weather on hill walks, cold commutes, or dog walks when the sky looks foreboding, the Duality Gore-Tex balances durability, warmth, and versatility for those undeterred by winter’s worst.
HH 28,000 mm, Gore-Tex 3L ePE, RET <9, 20D Ripstop, Primaloft Silver Insulation, Men's Weighs: 652g (Medium) & Women's Weighs: 564g (UK)
● PrimaLoft Silver Insulation: Efficient warmth - 100g/m2 in body and 80g/m2 in sleeves.
● Articulated Sleeves for unrestricted movement with hook and loop adjustment.
● Body-Mapped Insulation Keeps your core warm and delivers unrestricted movement.
● PFAS-free GORE-TEX ePE Waterproof (28k Hydrostatic Head), breathable (RET <13), 100% recycled PFC-Free DWR
● Coating on face fabric applied to bead and shed moisture
● PEAQ Liner: Fabric 100% recycled 20D liner with PFC-free DWR
Incorporating reliable waterproof protection, breathable fabrics as well as lightweight, packable designs, Montane's waterproof jackets combine comfort with protection. In short, a Montane waterproof jacket helps you focus on breaking new boundaries, no matter what the weather throws at you. Browse Montane's range of waterproof jackets and choose from a range of options to find the waterproof shell that suits your adventure needs best. Whether fast packing, hiking or climbing – we’re sure we have a waterproof jacket to keep you dry in the mountains.