Waterproof Jackets

Picture Abstral+ 2.5L Jacket | Review

An environmentally conscious and versatile jacket for dynamic mountain pursuits

Why We Chose the Picture Abstral+ 2.5L Jacket: eco credentials, packability, versatility

French brand Picture have been steadily gaining momentum over the fifteen years or so, creating quality, environmentally conscious activewear, streetwear and surfing products. Their Ride, Protect, Share slogan sums up their ethos – they draw their inspiration from extreme sports and have set themselves a clear mission to fight climate change.

Their Abstral jacket is designed as a ‘do-it-all’ waterproof hard shell, featuring stretchy fabric, their proprietary waterproofing technology, and an integrated stuff sack. This is an environmentally conscious all-rounder with features that make it a versatile choice for a range of applications.

Who is the Picture Abstral+ 2.5L Jacket For?

Solid eco credentials, good looks, performance, and packability make the Abstral a jacket that appeals to a broad range of folk. It’s light enough to be suitable for runners, skiers and boarders, yet robust and portable enough for multi-day hiking expeditions.

Its main fabric is waterproof and windproof enough to cope with most conditions, though more specialised jackets boast higher specifications. So, if you’re looking for a mountaineering-specific hard shell, or a dedicated running jacket, it’s worth spending a little more and getting a less versatile product. However, for a general use waterproof jacket that is suitable for a range of dynamic adventures, you can’t go far wrong with the Abstral.

Fabrics

The Abstral features a 2.5-layer stretch fabric woven from polyester, just under half of which has been recycled. As a hard shell designed with snow sports and the like in mind, freedom of movement is essential.

The stretchy fabric ensures a comfortable fit that’s loose enough for cycling and running, while the jacket’s elasticated brim and adjustable wrists enhance this further.

“There are a number of little touches that elevate this jacket.”

Picture Organic use their own waterproof membrane, coated with an eco-friendly DWR finish, to keep the wind and rain at bay, while fully taped seams ensure no leakage.

Features

An interesting feature of the Abstral is the way it stows away into its own right-hand pocket, which doubles as a stuff sack. This portability, combined with its relatively low weight, enhances its versatility. It’s light enough for speedy mountain pursuits, yet offers enough protection and packs down small enough to be a real boon on expeditions and hut-to-hut trekking missions.

There are a number of little touches that elevate this jacket, though it is pleasingly minimal and doesn’t indulge in any unnecessary bells and whistles. Two zippered side pockets provide a hand warming option, or a place to keep items like your compass or keys. It also boasts reflective print to make the wearer more visible during alpine starts or during post sunset walk outs. The hood is ergonomically shaped and is adjustable for when the weather really turns. There’s no additional ventilation beyond undoing the main YKK front zipper, which could be an issue during warm but wet ascents.