VauDe Kabru Hooded Jacket 2 – Performance

The Kabru’s a neat jacket with classic micro-baffled styling, albeit with bigger down compartments at shoulder level. In ultimate performance terms though, there are lighter down jackets, which are significantly warmer – the Berghaus Ramche 2.0 is an extreme example, but something like Rab’s Electron is in a similar weight and price bracket, but appreciably warmer thanks to higher loft down and  larger baffles.

That said, there are plenty of things to like about the Kabru. It has a neat cut, a close-fitting hood which  sits neatly under a climbing helmet if you’re so inclined and is nicely made. It’s reasonably warm too and packs down reasonably.

Micro-Baffling…

We figure the relative lack of insulation is partly down to the medium-loft down, but also the narrow, micro-baffled down compartments which mean there are more stitch-line cold-spots.

Talking of which, as with the Haglofs Essens III jacket stretch inserts under the arms increase mobility slightly, but in cold, cutting winds, create a bit of a localised cool spot. We also found the elasticated, non-adjustable cuffs didn’t seal well on our finely-turned wrists.

Both those are relatively minor issues most of the time. Generally we found the Kabru was a dependable, outdoors and post-outing all-rounder. In cold, dry, conditions, you can use as a light-ish belay jacket, but bear in mind the hood won’t fit over a helmet, though it sits neatly enough under one.

Finally, VauDe’s eco-credentials mean you get ethically-sourced Responsible Down Standard certified down and the DWR on the polyamide shell fabric is PFC free.

VauDe Kabru Hooded Jacket 2 – Verdict

The trouble with using so many insulated jackets is that we’ve got a little spoiled by some of the high-lofting, lightweight options out there. Viewed in isolation, the Kabru is a neatly-styled and nicely-made medium light insulated jacket, which does a decent all-round job.

And if that’s what you’re looking for, it’s a reliable choice for dry, cool conditions. If you’re after the ultimate warmth to weight and pack-size ratio though, there are better options for not much more outlay. What a great colour though!

More Information

See vaude.com