Follow Martha from Taunton Leisure HQ as she takes on Scotland in Montane’s NEW lightweight women’s waterproof jacket and gives her thoughts.

Montane as a brand has become well known for producing lightweight, breathable and functional clothing and equipment. For the new autumn/winter season, Montane has brought in a number of new and exciting products, one of which is the Spirit Waterproof jacket. A good and reliable waterproof jacket is essential for many outdoor activities, particularly for hillwalking; not only to keep you dry but also to keep out the wind and constantly changing UK weather conditions. On a recent staff trip to Scotland, undertaking the Affric Kintail Way, I was given the opportunity to test out the new Women’s Spirit Waterproof jacket – this gave me the ideal chance to put this jacket thoroughly through its paces as changeable weather conditions are almost a given in the Scottish Autumn months!

The Spirit Waterproof jacket is a very versatile option, suited to a wide range of activities such as walking, mountaineering, and even the commute to work – this makes it perfect for anyone who takes part in a range of activities and needs a waterproof that is able to adapt. The jacket is constructed of 75 Denier GORE-TEX PACLITE material, and this paired with the fully seam-taped construction gave me confidence that I would be fully protected from light showers to heavy downpours. A fully adjustable hood with a three-point adjustment system and a stiffened peak allows you to completely tighten the hood around your face and keep the elements out easily and on the move. The jacket also features an adjustable cinchable hem and hook and loop tab cuffs to further shut out the weather and reduce any heat loss that a cold wind may cause. The two zipped hand pockets featuring YKK AQUAGUARD® zips help to keep the weather out, but also double as ventilation when needed due to the net backing to the pockets.

Whilst in Scotland walking the Affric Kintail Way, the Spirit Waterproof jacket was the perfect outer layer in the varying weather conditions, it is lightweight at only 320g, and packable so was easily stashed in the lid of my rucksack to pull out at a moment’s notice when the rain showers started (which was frequently at times!). With it being September in the Highlands of Scotland, it was cold occasionally, I found it fit perfectly over the Dart Long Sleeve base layer and the Protium Fleece, keeping me warm and dry in the biting wind and rains. During the warmer days when there were showers, I did find that I could’ve done with perhaps a little more ventilation, although having the net backed pockets open did give me some relief. The hood with the stiffened peak paired with the adjustment system and ensured that I was able to protect my face and eyes from the elements, which was crucial when trying to find my footing on the, at times, rough trail.

I can imagine the Spirit Waterproof jacket becoming my go-to outer shell, both on future adventures further afield and for the local daily dog walk, particularly in changeable weather conditions. This jacket does feel as though it could be used year-round, from the warmer summer months in a light shower to the colder winter, with plenty of room for layering underneath. I do feel as though this jacket would be ideal for anyone who is looking for an adaptable waterproof that is packable and comfortable for a wide range of activities and weather conditions. This a great addition to the Montane range for the new season and compliments the existing range by providing a technical but very versatile and lightweight waterproof jacket designed to keep you dry in the mountains as well as in everyday use.

Shop the Montane Spirit Jacket HERE

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