Ludo from our Bristol Store was fortunate enough to test the Montane Anti Freeze a very capable down jacket that boasts some great feature
I always really liked Montane’s clothing and ethos: Further, faster. Montane clothing and equipment are innovative, lightweight and breathable. I own several of their clothes and equipment including trousers, fleece, base layers and gloves.
When I was asked if I wanted to test the Montane Anti-Freeze Hooded Jacket, I was thrilled. I’ve had it for almost six months now. I have used it on many occasions: hiking, wild camping in Dartmoor and Wales, several bike-packing trips in the UK and France, commuting, going out… it has almost followed me everywhere since I have it.
The Montane Anti-Freeze Hooded Jacket is a technical down jacket that strikes a balance between warmth, lightweight construction, and packability. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts tackling a range of environments, this jacket combines innovative materials with thoughtful design features, making it an attractive option for anyone seeking dependable insulation in cold conditions. Here’s a detailed review of the jacket, covering its features and performance.
Design and Materials
The Anti-Freeze Hooded Jacket is constructed with high-quality materials that are both durable and functional. The outer shell is made from a windproof and water-resistant 100% recycled Pertex Quantum Eco ripstop fabric, which is designed to offer excellent protection against the elements while being eco-friendly and sustainable. This fabric is lightweight but robust, providing an effective shield against wind and light rain without compromising the jacket’s overall weight.
The insulation is provided by 750+ fill power HyperDRY down, which is treated to maintain loft and warmth even in damp conditions. The Down is Responsible Down Standard (RDS) and Tracked by Down certified, ensuring that it has been sourced ethically and with animal welfare in mind. This attention to ethical sourcing is a plus for environmentally conscious buyers.
A key aspect of the jacket’s design is its minimalistic and streamlined aesthetic. It doesn’t have an overwhelming number of features, but the simplicity works in its favour. The clean lines and lack of excessive bulk make it versatile for layering, whether you’re using it as an outer layer on dry days or as a mid-layer under a shell in harsher conditions.
Performance and Warmth
The warmth-to-weight ratio of the Montane Anti-Freeze Hooded Jacket is one of its most impressive features. With 140g (size medium) of water-resistant fluorocarbon-free HyperDRY down at 750+ fill power, it provides substantial warmth for a jacket that weighs just over 340 grams. The downfall ensures excellent insulation, trapping heat effectively while still allowing for breathability. It’s the ideal jacket for cold-weather hiking, mountaineering, or even casual use during the colder months.
The jacket’s hood is designed to be both functional and adjustable. It is fully adjustable with concealed adjustment. There is a stiffened peak and fits well under a climbing helmet. The insulated hood adds a significant layer of warmth and protection for your head, which is essential in cold and windy conditions.
Montane has incorporated an athletic fit into the design, which aids in mobility without making the jacket feel too tight. The articulation in the arms allows for a full range of motion, making it suitable for activities like climbing or hiking, where flexibility is important. The longer hem at the back also helps keep the jacket in place and prevents drafts from creeping in, particularly when reaching or bending.
Weather Resistance
While the Anti-Freeze Hooded Jacket isn’t designed to be fully waterproof, the Pertex Quantum Eco fabric does offer a decent level of water resistance, making it suitable for light rain or snow. The HyperDRY down also helps maintain performance in damp conditions, which is a notable advantage over untreated down that can lose its insulating power when wet.
However, in prolonged wet weather, you’d likely want to pair this jacket with a waterproof shell, as it’s not intended to handle heavy rainfall or sustained moisture exposure. For those venturing into areas with unpredictable weather, this limitation should be taken into account.
Packability and Portability
One of the major selling points of the Montane Anti-Freeze Hooded Jacket is its packability. It compresses down easily into its included stuff sack, making it an excellent option for backpackers, backpackers and mountaineers looking to minimise bulk and weight. Despite its impressive warmth, it packs down small enough to fit in a backpack without taking up much space, a crucial feature for those on multi-day adventures or those who need to stash their jacket when it’s not in use.
Pros and Cons
PROS:
• Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
• Durable, eco-friendly Pertex Quantum Eco fabric
• High-quality HyperDRY down for insulation even in damp conditions
• Helmet-compatible hood
• Packable and lightweight
• Ethical and sustainable down sourcing
CONS:
• Limited weather resistance in heavy rain
• Could benefit from more internal pockets for gear storage
Final Verdict
The Montane Anti-Freeze Hooded Jacket is a highly capable piece of gear for anyone looking to stay warm in cold, dry, or slightly damp environments. Its lightweight design and exceptional warmth make it perfect for winter hiking, climbing, or alpine expeditions, while the added bonus of ethical down-sourcing and sustainable fabric use will appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
For those who need an insulated jacket that performs and packs down well, the Anti-Freeze Hooded Jacket is an excellent choice. However, if you’re expecting prolonged exposure to wet conditions, pairing it with a waterproof shell is advisable.
