Blog

RAB Xenair Range - Intelligent Insulation

Posted by Mark Richardson on Jan 30, 2026

Impressively breathable, adaptable and versatile, Xenair is a synthetic insulation collection for mountain ascents. Intelligently body mapping different densities of insulation and air-permeable fabrics, they respond and regulate your temperature. The Xenair range is filled with PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation Active+ to keep you warm and comfortable through peaks and troughs of activity and change …
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Montane's ExpeDRY™ Down Technology Explained

Jan 29, 2026

ExpeDRY™ works through a permanent and chemical-free bonding of non-toxic gold particles to the down cluster, which actively attacks the humidity inside the insulation and keeps the entire chamber dry in extreme conditions. The ExpeDRY gold particles create an electro-static shield that provides a small hydrophobic barrier and weakens the hydrogen bond that allows water to form. By attacking …
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Montane Petrichor Technology Explained

Jan 29, 2026

Unlike traditional waterproof technology, Petrichor’s hydrophilic membrane actively breathes to physically transport moisture away from damp layers and skin, and out into the air. The membrane manages your own microclimate to enable you to move fast and light while staying dry — the harder you work, the harder it works. This technology excels even when your baselayer is slightly wet, t …
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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 …
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Rab PrimaLoft Technology Explained

Jan 27, 2026

From active sheet insulation that responds to your output to loose fill insulation that mimics the structure of down, we use a variety of types of PrimaLoft® synthetic insulation in our gear. Each one has its unique benefits, tailored to particular conditions and activities. So how do we select which one to use in each product? Discover how these PrimaLoft® insulations work to provide …
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OMM Core Technology Explained

Jan 27, 2026

The OMM CORE Range is a new concept in active insulation made entirely from PRIMALOFT ACTIVE ultra-light insulating fabric. Built from a synthetic plume woven through a knitted mesh CORE offers the warmth of a fleece but with less than half the weight. Paired with a shell, the CORE is an incredibly effective insulator, but the lightest breeze can take away that heat thanks to near-total air permea …
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Montane Kamen XT Down Jacket Review - ''I wouldn’t hesitate to include this on a UK winter kit list or if heading on an expedition to higher altitude peaks.''

Posted by Nick Brown on Nov 24, 2025

New to the market this season is Montane’s Kamen range of Down Jackets. These come in two variations. The standard Kamen and its bigger brother, the Kamen XT which is being reviewed. They both feature 800 fill ExpeDRY Goose down, designed to resist water and moisture so it stays lofty even in damp conditions, but the XT version has a box wall construction. This means rather than the baffles …
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SamBob Alpha 120 Hoodie Review - ''My go-to active insulation when the temperature drops.''

Posted by Andy Neil on Nov 20, 2025

When I heard that SamBob were releasing a 120gsm Alpha Direct version of their classic oversized thru-hiking hoodie, I was instantly interested. I’ve used a lot of Alpha 90 over the years and always loved how breathable and versatile it is, so the idea of a warmer, loftier 120gsm version immediately grabbed my attention. When the box arrived at the warehouse, I grabbed one immediately and h …
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Outdoor Research VerticalX SuperStrand Synthetic Insulation

Posted by Mark Richardson on Oct 01, 2025

Outdoor Research's VerticalX SuperStrand Synthetic Insulation is built to deliver exceptional warmth to weight ratio, it compares to 700-800 Fill Power down in terms of its softness, weight and lofting ability. On this page we explain how it works. — VerticalX SuperStrand is the lightest, softest, most compressible synthetic insulation available taking the best qualities of down and imp …
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What is VerticalX ECO SR Insulation?

Oct 01, 2025

Built with lightweight, recycled bluesign® approved fabrics, the Vesper features VerticalX™ ECO SR insulation, which balances warmth, stretch, and breathability. Its wind- and water-resistant shell provides protection from unpredictable weather while maintaining comfort during high-output activities. Thoughtful design details like the insulated hood with brim, elastic cuffs, and adjustab …
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2025 Phase Lite Gore-Tex Jacket

Aug 18, 2025

Combining lightweight Gore-Tex ePE performance shell with advanced construction techniques and essential feature set, the Phase lite ensures maximum wet weather protection and full garment breathability whilst minimising weight. BARRIER and STORMGUARD construction techniques enhance wet weather protection, and are engineered alongside our streamlined features set, including the PIVOT 2 fully adjus …
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The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Sun Hoodies: Your Shield Against the Elements

Posted by Andy Neil on Jun 24, 2025

Sun hoodies have become indispensable gear for long-distance hikers and anyone exploring the outdoors in summer. Sun hoodies have gained popularity for their all-in-one solution for sun protection, moisture management, and temperature regulation, making them an essential part of any kit list. Historically, hikers relied on sunscreen, hats, and loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts for sun pro …
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