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.