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There are basically three types of synthetic insulation used in outdoor jackets: 1. Sheet Insulation – Fibres are woven into a ‘mat’ structure and this is used to fill the jacket, this is the ‘traditional’ way of doing this and provides excellent warmth to weight and is pretty durable. 2. Loose Fill Insulation – This is where synthetic fibres are ‘loose’, like dow …

One of the more technical jackets we have used over the past 6 months, the Axis Alpha Down jacket on first appearance is similar in design to the Montane Quattro Fusion, a jacket we very much enjoyed testing and reviewing and have continued to use over the past few years. Montane has a great reputation for creating some very innovative clothing, with a wide mix of materials to produce …

Alpha is one of a range of insulation from Polartec, we explain what it does and include our opinion of it.

Haglofs Touring Mid Jacket has been designed with purpose offering features that can be applied to multiple activities. The main principles of this fleece jacket are to help regulate temperature during higher octane activities such as Ski Touring, however the benefits of this garment do not just lie with activities such as this. I have been able to put this jacket through its paces from 10 …

The Haglofs Mid Touring jacket is a technical piece of clothing aimed for use in the colder months, working as either a mid-layer or a stand-alone outer layer for calmer days. In terms of stylings the Mid touring jacket certainly stands out, with us receiving a colour mix of blue and green, clearly highlighting the two separate forms of insulation used. There’s no denying this is a …

When the OR Ascendant Hoody arrived we were very excited as OR have laid down a big claim saying this jacket would be “your new favourite layer for fall, winter and spring.” Active Insulation, Water-Resistant, Wind-Resistant, Breathable, Lightweight, Movement-Mirroring Stretch Fabric, Adjustable Helmet-Compatible Hood, are all qualities that sound like a winner but when it arrived we were a little …

Mention the words “Polartec Alpha Direct” and you instantly have us hooked. Having used this type of insulation in various summer and winter jackets you can be guaranteed that this is a jacket in which unrivaled breathability, comfort, and warmth is matched with a low bulk and low weight in an item designed for high activity adventures. Paired with an outer fabric of Pertex Quantum AIR, which has …

The Montane Hydrogen Extreme Smock, as the name suggests, has pretty big boots to fill. For over 20 years the original Extreme Smock has been regarded as a very dependable layer for expeditions into some of the world’s most hostile environments. Montane state that this updated version is inspired by the tried and tested Pile/Pertex system technology of the renowned Extreme Smock. The new …

The Rab Alpha Flash jacket is an extremely lightweight and simple mid-layer fleece made entirely from Polartec® Alpha™ Direct 120 insulation. This fabric was originally developed for the U.S. Special Forces in order to provide them with an ‘advanced’ insulation piece in their uniforms, which all sounds very impressive. The aim behind the fabric is to provide a highly breathable material that will …

The Alpha Flux is a progression of the existing Alpha Direct which was Rab's first jacket to use the Polartec Alpha Direct insulation (an active form of insulation). Alpha Direct is a sturdier form of Polartec Alpha insulation which means it was possible to remove one of the fabric layers leaving only two layers of fabric (the insulation and outer material) thus providing excellent breathability. …

A very comfortable jacket that allows easy movement when walkingI really loved this jacket with its ability to keep me warm, but it was breathable enough to ensure that I wasn’t sweating whilst walking.I took this piece of kit with me to Iceland as my primary jacket to use when trekking. It was perfect for when the conditions were a little cold and an extra layer was needed, usually around 10°C. H …