Polartec, the fabric and insulation specialist, has been producing some innovating products over the past few years. With some of the best in class synthetic insulation and waterproof fabrics, Fall Winter 2014 will be an interesting season for gear.
One of the most acclaimed waterproof and breathable fabric out there is the Polartec NeoShell with its great stretch for its type. More recently Polartec made a successful move into synthetic insulation with the Polartec Alpha. Athletes seemed to like it, the press wrote glowing reviews. Now it is time to have those two technologies paired in the same piece of gear.
Starting this fall we should be seeing more garment for cold weather/high output activities like mountaineering and climbing. Marmot will be releasing such jacket with the Misto. The hybrid jacket, designed for Alpinist, will make use of Polartec NeoShell on the hood, shoulders and arms and Alpha on the torso. A great combination for on-the-go protection in a lightweight package, 770g on paper. Official price: £300.
Another example is the great looking Montane Axion Neo Alpha. A mouthful but this is the ultimate weapon for all you hardcore winter activities. This is a waterproof insulated jacket, again taking advantage of the NeoShell and Alpha combo. Sensibly heavier at 980g it brings full protection from both the cold and water compared to the Marmot Misto. RRP: £360.
Those two are of course top of the line jackets and we should be seeing other more affordable options from other manufacturers.
