Following on from Finisterre’s Anabatic Shell waterproof jacket, we also have a Cirrus Jacket– to have a look at. It’s a lightweight synthetic-filled, packable that uses PrimaLoft Sport for good wet or dry performance.
Light And Packable
As with the waterproof, it’s light rather than ultra-lightweight with a real-life weight of 380g in a medium size, but that’s still plenty light enough for most general outdoors use and it packs usefully into an internal zipped pocket for compact stowage.
The PrimaLoft Sport insulation isn’t at the top of the PrimaLoft tree, but it’s usefully warm, packs down well and as with other synthetic fills, retains more of its performance when wet – Finisterre claims 75% of its dry performance even when damp. Good news for the UK either on a surf beach or in the hills.
Nice Detailing
That’s only half the battle, we’re also impressed with the details on the jacket. The fit is lovely, close and fitted, which as well as looking neater, also means more efficient insulating performance, though you may need to size up if you’re carrying a little extra weight. It also means it layers under close-fitting shells better.
There are two hand-warmer pockets thoughfully half-lined with a micro-velour fleece for extra comfort and wamth. A non-snagging, easy-zipping YKK Vizlon zip is backed up with a storm-flap and anti-snag strip and the same tough-looking fabric is used for the tunnel that holds the adjustable hem cord. Wrists are Lycra bound. Collar has a soft, micro-velour lining too, which is nice.
Last but not least, the recycled an recyclable Polyester shell fabric has a DWR factory treatment to help it shrug off drizzle, mizzle and light rain.
All-Rounder
We like the looks too and while the design isn’t über technical in an alpine sense, it feels decently warm and well up to mountain use with the added bonus of not making you look like you’ve just been beamed in from the Alps. The one addition we’d make for all-year use would be some sort of hood, but that’s a matter of personal choice and plenty of people manage happily without.
If you do want a hood however, there’s also a hooded version of the Cirrus called the Nimbus for an extra £25. The Cirrus retails for £140 and you can find more information at www.finisterreuk.com.