Why We Chose It: Temperature regulating, recycled materials
Price: £125
Weight: 470g
The Phoenix family of well-priced synthetic insulated jackets (Icarus for men) has been around for a few years now. We’ve seen a lightly insulated version, a heftier one, now we have this new one with super stretchy side panels and a nice new Pertex Quantum Eco face fabric.
Anyway, the first question that we expect will be on the minds of anyone tempted in by that attractive £125 price point is probably going to be: will it actually keep me warm? In short, yes but it will also keep you cool. Sound confusing? Let us explain…
What’s The Montane Phoenix Stretch Best Suited To?
The idea behind this jacket is active insulation. You’ve got those narrow baffles and a down-like synthetic fill for warmth, but then big stretchy panels under the arms that will let some hot air escape while also giving you a nice range of movement as well.
With all that in mind, it’s going to be climbers who’ll get the most out of this jacket – it’s the kind of thing you could wear on the crag during those colder climbs from early spring through to autumn.
Those same virtues will also make this a good option for backpackers and bikepackers too, particularly when you consider that it’s fairly light at 470g and that it won’t take up too much space in your backpack either.
Bear in mind this isn’t the warmest of jackets out there though. it might suit those milder days during the UK’s winters but on a typically cold day you’ll probably want something a bit burlier.
The Eco-Creds
Montane have used a bunch of recycled fabrics in this jacket. You’ve got the outer Pertex Quantum Eco which is made from a 50% recycled polyester, the inner liner which is 100% recycled and then a PrimaLoft Silver synthetic fill on the shoulders and hood that’s made from 100% recycled materials as well.
