The list of features is exhaustive, from the extra insulation around the pockets to the option to pack away into its own right hand pocket but it's how the jacket works in real-world conditions that really matters. At its most basic the Prism offers affordable insulation that will stand up to rain, wind, snow and cold while packing down into a relatively small (for a synthetic) pillow shaped space. The hood, previously a problem, is now helmet compatible with 3 point adjustment but still packs away neatly into the collar when not required.
Breathability is always a major consideration with insulated jackets but the Prism is remarkable breathable and benefits from sleeves with enough room to pull them up almost to the elbows for additional ventilation. Even in late August with early evening temperatures in the low 20's Centigrade it was neither excessively warm or constrictive. In fact it was so comfortable that its insulation and wind resistance only became apparent on taking it off!
Comfort seems to be a major theme of the Montane Prism with articulated arms allowing full arm movement, a soft fleece liner around the mouth and a cut that lets you move steeply uphill without any annoying lifting of the hem. The fabrics and materials used have a proven track record and combined with a good DWR offer protection in all weather.
Above all the Montane Prism is a jacket to be used. There's better looking jackets for wearing down the pub but where it matters, on the hill, it permorms superbly whether sitting at an exposed belay or chilling around a wild camp. At £100 it's an affordable alternative to down while benefitting from the advantages of synthetic filling when wet.
Price: £100
Weight; 401g
Colour: Moroccan blue / Burnt orange lining / Moroccan blue zips Steel / Burnt orange lining / Steel zips Black / Kiwi lining / Black zips Jelly bean / Cadmium yellow lining / Jelly bean zips Alpine red / Silver lining Olive / Steel lining
Features:
# PERTEX® Microlight outer fabric that is completely windproof, fast drying and features an exceptional durable water repellency
# 40g PRIMALOFT® ECO insulation throughout the body is warm, packable and exceptionally fast drying
# 40g PRIMALOFT® ECO in front of and behind the pockets giving this area 80g of insulation in total
# Articulated arms for reach high movement and tailored specifically to reduce hem lift
# Fully adjustable helmet compatible mountain hood with three point adjustment and wired peak
# Internal tab to lock down and roll away the hood in windy conditions
# Soft fleece beardguard around face and mouth for extra comfort
# Two insulated hand-warmer pockets positioned well clear of backpack or climbing harness belt
# Full length, reversed and baffled YKK front zip
# Low bulk and profile elasticated cuffs which can be pulled up forearms to aid cooling
# Adjustable hem to prevent spindrift entry and heat loss
# SCOTCHLITE™ reflective details for mountain safety
# Stuffs into right hand pocket for easy storage and use as a small sleeping pillow
Note: This article was restored from the archives. It's published creation date is inaccurate.