The Updated Montane Featherlite Jacket
Jun 01, 2026
Featherlite Windproof Jacket
The Montane Featherlite Hoodie became one of my most-used layers during this year's TGO Challenge, where a windproof layer felt practically mandatory. Wind protection is its biggest strength, taking the edge off exposed coastal sections and higher ground without feeling stuffy when moving at a steady pace.
At 115g (Medium), it is not the lightest windshirt available, but that extra weight goes into genuinely useful features. The full-length front zip makes temperature regulation easy, the adjustable hem helps seal out draughts, and the pocket is large enough to stash the jacket away when not needed. The hood is particularly well executed, staying securely in place even in a gale. I also found it handled light rain better than expected. It is no substitute for a waterproof, but brief showers were rarely a concern, and the fabric dried very quickly once the rain passed.
The PERTEX Quantum Air fabric feels soft and quiet, with noticeably better breathability than older windproof designs. For hillwalking, backpacking and long-distance trails, it strikes an impressive balance between comfort, protection and practicality.
Features & Updates
● Updated cuff design features a self-adjusting, minimal elastic closure, an improvement over the previous version that had partial elastic.
● The offset seam intersections enhance construction, durability, and comfort.
● A self-adjusting hood system provides a lightweight and minimal closure.
● The fully adjustable hem includes two drawcords for easy cinching.
● Full length YKK NATULON recycled front zip with internal wind strip.
● Includes a YKK NATULON recycled zipped chest pocket for secure storage.
● Designed with a trim fit block that is close-fitting to accommodate fast-moving, active users while providing added articulation for dynamic forward movements; this differs from the previous version which had a regular fit.
New Pertex Quantum Air Fabric
Superlight | Air Permeable | Water Resistant | Wind Resistant
Pertex Quantum Air: A soft and quiet 12 Denier stretch nylon textured woven textile, engineered to optimise the balance between wind resistance and moisture vapour transmission combined with non-fluorocarbon water repellency. Offering exceptional comfort during high-paced activities.
Weights
The Montane Featherlite Hoodie became one of my most-used layers during this year's TGO Challenge, where a windproof layer felt practically mandatory. Wind protection is its biggest strength, taking the edge off exposed coastal sections and higher ground without feeling stuffy when moving at a steady pace. The PERTEX Quantum Air fabric feels soft and quiet, with noticeably better breathability than older windproof designs. For hillwalking, backpacking and long-distance trails, it strikes an impressive balance between comfort, protection and practicality.