Friday, 02 May 2014 14:06

Mammut Juho 2.5 layer GoreTex Jacket Reviewed

Written by

The Mammut Juho is the type of jacket that dominates the mid-range market, offering simple styling with reliable performance. It's a 2.5 layer GoreTex product which provides the essential levels of waterproofing, breathability and wind resistance without going over the top on features that, in reality, the majority of UK users won't really need on a regular basis.
The Juho has the standard Casual fit, so you get a uniform length all round rather than a dropped tail and while the hem, cuff and hood adjustments are all simple and effective it's never going to be a body hugging style jacket. Having said that, there's nothing wrong with the simple style if the objective is performance over appearance and it's by no means unattractive - especially in black!

In testing the Juho performed admirably in difficult conditions with breathability really pushed to the limits. With a temperature in the mid 20's C but rain a constant threat the GoreTex membrane handled the internal heat generated by a steep uphill walk, followed by a bit of scrambling, despite a lack of pit zips or other dedicated ventilation adaptations. The real proof, however, came when coming to a halt following these exertions; despite the rapid change in conditions from active and heat generating to static and in a noticeable breeze there was no noticeable chilling of the body. When the rain did arrive the Juho performed to expectations, keeping the rain out as you'd want and quickly adjustable around the important hem, cuff and neck points.


You only get the two handwarmer pockets in the Juho and neither are large enough to hold a map, so no internal pocket and no sleeve or Napolean pocket and likewise you don't get any additional strenthening around potential rub points such as shoulders. Despite these limitations, however, what you do get is a jacket that does what it sets out to do. The zips are good quality spray-proof YKK zips with an internal baffle giving additional protection on the main zip. The Velcro cuff adjusters offer a large adjustment range with enough room to accomodate a chunky pair of gloves if necessary. The hood is fixed and can't be stowed away but it is easily adjustable and care has been taken to ensure there's no dangling cords - even the rear volume adjuster is neatly covered with a flap of fabric.

At the full RRP the Mammut Juho has a lot of competition, even from within Mammut's own products, but the price reflects the choice of materials and the build quality. YKK zips and 2.5 layer Goretex are proven components and offer durability and performance that alternative materials may struggle to match. With street prices as low as £100 (August 2013), however, the Juho will appeal to hill walkers looking for lightweight performance at an affordable price without compromising on build quality and durability.

 

Price: 170

Weight: 390g

Colour:

Black Smoke, Dark Spring Sherwood, Ginger Smoke, Merlin
Features:
•2 waterproof front pockets

•Spray proof YKK zippers
•Fixed, adjustable hood
•Elastic drawcord cuff
•Velcro cuffs

 

Pros: Lightweight, simple design, volume adjustable hood, good breathability, good street price

Cons: No map pocket, No added shoulder fabric for durability

 



Note: This article was restored from the archives. It's published creation date is inaccurate.