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Our Top 5 Synthetic Insulated Jackets

15 October 2014 No comments
Our Top 5 Synthetic Insulated Jackets

With the arrival of a new season comes an array of great new products. This autumn is no exception and sees a lot of new innovations coming through, especially in insulating clothing. As the temperature has started to take a bit of a dive recently we thought we'd share and review a selection of our favourite synthetic jackets, which are brilliant at combating the damp and cold British weather.


5. Patagonia Nano-Air Hoody £199.99

Brand new, the Nano-Air hoody is an impressive insulator that showcases Patagonia's FullRange insulation. Warm, stretchy and exceptionally breathable, it uses hydrophobic fibres that repel moisture and help the garment to dry quickly. All this technology means the Nano-Air hoody gives excellent temperature regulation, ideal for full days on the hill, multi-pitch climbs and activities which involve stop-start cycles of exertion and rest.

Verdict: The lightest of the lot, this layer would suit those exerting a lot of energy on the hill (or who simply get hot easily) but in colder conditions a shell over the top would be beneficial to help keep the heat in.


4. Arc'teryx Atom AR Hoody £199.99

The Atom series from Arc'teryx is well established as an excellent insulation range. The AR Hoody bridges the gap between previous styles, offering all round warmth for a variety of situations. Made with Coreloft insulation, it uses different weights on the body, arms and hood to give a perfect balance of warmth, breathability and a fit that's second to none. Stretch-knit cuffs seal around the wrists and the insulated hood is helmet compatible.

Verdict: Arc'teryx always give exceptional attention to detail, and the Atom AR has a great fit and well thought out features to show for it. Wear alone or under layers, it's a versatile all-rounder.


3. Rab Wmn's Inferno Hoodie £159.99

Rab excel at producing insulation for cold conditions, and the Inferno Hoodie is no exception. This women's jacket features Pertex Microlight Eco and Pyrotec insulation, combining together to produce a warm, wind resistant layer that would make a great belay jacket. It's lightweight and stows down easily into the internal chest pocket, so would also make a great addition to a hill walker's backpack on blustery days.

Verdict: Perfect for the varied conditions of the British countryside, it has a regular fit so layers easily and the hem drawcord and Velcro cuffs help seal in warmth when the temperature drops. A tip for backpackers; when stowed in its pocket it makes an excellent camping pillow!


2. The North Face Victory Hooded Jacket £179.99

The Victory Hooded Jacket triumphs over cold, damp weather. With PrimaLoft Silver Eco insulation it is warm, durable and continues to work even when wet. Designed for cooler alpine conditions, it would work equally well on autumnal days in the UK. It has harness and pack friendly pockets, and the hood and shoulders have a PU coating to increase water resistance, great for backpackers and climbers alike.

Verdict: The Victory Hooded Jacket is part of The North Face's Summit Series range, which means it is athlete tested and expedition proven. Great for those heading to the mountains, it layers easily for adaptable warmth and long lasting performance.


1. Berghaus Men's Asgard Hybrid Jacket £199.99

The Asgard Hybrid is the only one of these five to utilise both down and synthetic insulation. 700 fill Hydrodown is light, warm, and highly compressible, Hydroloft Elite Pro is breathable, durable and water resistant. The insulations are body-mapped to give the best warmth, weight and performance possible and make the Asgard Hybrid ideal for mountaineers looking for one layer to do it all.

Verdict: Berghaus used the expertise of their MtnHaus team to produce the ultimate hybrid design.  Weighing just 428g, you get warmth, breathability and weather resistance delivered in a high performance jacket perfect for winter mountain adventures.

Shop our full range of insulated jackets here.

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