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The new Sirocco Lite insulated hoodie is a midlayer with some extra warmth where you need it. I got to use it on a recent trip to the highlands in April when the weather can drastically change the higher you go. It is not unusual to be in a short sleeve shirt at the bottom only to find yourself scrabbling for your warmer layers as you pass snow patches at the tops.

The Sirocco Lite is a great light weight midlayer that can add just enough to take the edge off if the wind starts blowing whilst taking up minimum space in your pack. It features a hybrid design with the arms and hood being constructed from Thermo Stretch brush back fleece which is a lovely soft, 4-way stretchy material next to your skin. The hood is nice and snug and cosy without sacrificing freedom of movement. Whilst the body contains a 20D ripstop outer with recycled polyester insulation on the front and back offering a warm layer for your core. The sides are made from the same stretch fleece as the arms so it is a snug fitted piece but is very comfortable once on.

The hybrid material works really well allowing lots of freedom of movement when walking whilst maintaining your warmth at your core when you stop. It is also thin enough to take a waterproof over the top and being fairly short in the body means it will sit well as a layering piece.

Montane have managed to trim some weight from the Sirocco Lite by removing any adjustment features at the hem or hood maintaining low profile seams throughout. However, I didn’t find this as issue as the stretchy fleece material maintains the snug fit. The main zip is a lightweight YKK zip to also reduce weight and the jacket also contains 2 zipped hand warming pockets.

On my recent trip I found the jacket performed very well for such a lightweight piece and was very necessary up high. When I was moving quick I found the stretch panels worked great with very little restriction of movement. I would be a little cautious of using it with a rucksack for long periods as the durability of the fleece material on the shoulders might cause wear. However, it is ideal when using it as an extra layer to pull out when needed. If you run hot like I do using it on the ascent might be too warm however I would imagine in the winter it would be a great insulator between waterproofs without being bulky.

Overall the Sirocco Lite is a very versatile, lightweight, midlayer that is very comfortable and snug without restricting movement.

Nick Brown
Nick has had a love of the outdoors, especially the mountains, for over 20 years. His passion has led him all around the world on many multi-day treks and mountain climbs in the greater ranges. As well as experiences in harsh environments such as the jungles of Asia and South and Central America and the vastness of the Trans-Siberian railway. A qualified Mountain Leader, he spends most of his time exploring the Scottish highlands and wild areas bagging Munros. On top of this, he enjoys trail running and rock climbing and strongly believes any outdoor experiences are good experiences - no matter what the weather, especially for mental well-being and happiness. Read more from Nick Brown