It's good a very long-standing reputation for being a great jacket. Things I like the look of are proper hood with wired peak and underarm ventilation for when it's pouring with rain but mild.
They can be found at lower prices if you shop around.
If you're after something traditional like that I'd go for something like a Paramo Pajarro. Best coat like that I've ever had. Next in line would be something from either Mountain Range or Mountain Equipment. Good solid jackets with great provenance and quality. Built for the miserable UK climate.
Sent via smoke-signal from a woodland in Scotland.
The Paramo anoraks and smocks are fantastic, they come in a variety of styles/ weights but I can't recommend them enough. I've had a Velez smock for about five years which I've used for hill walking, cycling and skiing . I've recently picked up a heavier smock for winter mountaineering and skiing. Can't recommend them enough
Id go for something really lightweight, in event, in black made by Rab, and some black really lightweight trousers to match, possible made by someone like....errr....IDK.....Marmot? Their essence ultralight pant is very good. And keep an eye on the Classifieds, you never know what might pop up. :theyareon
Keela munro is for tramping up hill,so not thigh length, love mine, i find thigh length jkts are better for just traipsing through long grass etc on the level
I pulled the trigger on one some months back to replace a TNF jacket well past its best (and which I never liked anyway). Not really had a chance to use it in really evil condictions, but it stood up very well to 30mph winds and relatively driving rain in Scotland recently (stupidly, it took two days before I realised that the jacket was named after the mountain I could clearly see from where we were staying). The length is enough to cover my bum (I'm 5ft 9in tall), with patch pockets (which actually work fine) and a decent hood (kid of wired). Its 2 layer Goretex, so might not be tough enough for you, and I suppose your possibly looking for something a bit longer.
The very helpful chap in Cotswolds pointed out that its bascially the Cornice III with a extra patch pocket (retro/street styling!) on the chest. However, since the Cornice III is £200 http://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/berghaus-mens-cornice-iii-jacket-11111300?id_colour=107 , whereas you can get the Suilven for £25 cheaper (which was the situation when I bought mine), you could go for the cheaper one.
They are also in Go Outdoors, so at least have a look.
Thanks a lot guys. The Keela Munro seems like the clear winner.
I'm still a bit wary - some of the reviews aren't fantastic, and it looks bulky.
I've got a French army jacket which is excellent. I picked it up for £20. Mine doesn't have waist pockets but there's a version that does and seems available for £50.
It's very well made, simple, the material is very very tough, and it would be perfect if only it weren't camouflaged. I hate looking like I want to be a soldier and worry that it's also slightly disrespectful to our armed forces for me to wear something like that.
If I could find that jacket in civilian colours I'd be sorted.
Aye Up Garnett,
You've mentioned that you already own a French surplus jacket so maybe you're not just looking for 'Gucci' kit!
Have a look at the Austrian surplus KA03 jacket. The style errs towards civilian as opposed to bellows/patch pocket military, and it's a plain mid/light olive, single layer heavier weight Goretex and very well made.
I've used one over several years for both trekking and BC and it's proven brilliant.
You can get them used (try Surplus and Outdoors) or brand new if you're willing to spend the cash (Steinadler versand)
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.