Synthetic insulation ideal for the UK climate

As winter closes in more and more with each day, every time we step outside first thing in the morning the temperature seems to have dropped that extra degree each time. I haven't had to reach for the car de-icer just yet, but I'm sure within the month I'll be merrily spraying and scrapping away on the windscreen.

For the extremely cold days, where the chill is palpable and the snow seems imminent, there's no qualms about it, I'll be reaching for my down vest/jacket. But, living in a climate which thoroughly enjoys a good coating of the wet stuff, a soggy down jacket is essentially no use at all. This is where synthetic insulators come into their own, working their magic even when wet. Plus you can venture out, knowing that if there is the drip drop of rainfall on the horizon, you won't have a mad dash to find somewhere dry in an attempt to save your jacket. Primaloft is the market leader when it comes to synthetic insulation, so we thought we'd have a look at a couple of jackets that utilize it.

The Montane Men's Prism Jacket is one of the most versatile pieces in the Montane range. It excels across the board when it comes to all manner of mountain activities and beyond. It's been given 40g of Primaloft insulation, providing ample warmth, even if it gets a tad soggy. The outer of the jacket is made with Pertex Microlight, a fantastically lightweight, wind resistant, water repellent and soft to the touch fabric. The Pertex outer also provides plenty of durability.

The Prism Jacket's hood has been constructed to fit over a cragging helmet or a full blown mountaineering helmet. It's rollaway too, so you can store away when not in use. The wired peak also equips the jacket with a good amount of sturdiness and extra protection. Two double insulated chest pockets have been situated well clear of any waistbelt or harness, so all your much needed accessories and essentials are easily accessible when your at the rock face. The whole jacket packs away into it's own right hand pocket, making storage a cinch and minimal bulk when packing away for trips.

The Montane Men's Prism Jacket costs £89.99 and weighs in at a lightweight 415g. We've got an eclectic mix of colours in stock; Moroccan Blue/Orange, Black/Kiwi, Steel/Burnt Orange and Black.

Next up we have the Haglofs Men's Qanir Jacket. Again it utilizes Primaloft insulation, with 100g in the sleeves and hood and another 133g in the body. Along with the Primaloft insulation the Qanir has a Gore Windstopper 2 Layer membrane, resulting it optimum windproofing and maximum breathability for all round weather protection. The outer fabric has a DWR coating, helping to bead off light showers. The jacket has been equipped with a 2 way water resistant main zipper with a wind baffle and chin guard for extra comfort.

The Qanir features a three way adjustable hood with wired peak, for the ultimate amount of flexibility, especially helpful when engaging in faster paced pursuits. Two harness compatible zippered pocket provide ample space for all your gadgets and accessories, while still allowing easy access when wearing a harness or hipbelt. Another chest pocket provides the ideal place to store smaller documents and a map and an internal pocket gives a safe place to keep your more expensive items. The Qanir's articulated sleeve construction offers maximum dexterity and the velcro cuff adjustment ensures for a customizable fit.

The Haglofs Men's Qanir Jacket costs £224.99 and weighs in at 700g. We've currently got it in stock in two colours; Blue Ink and Black.

We've currently got a plethora of Synthetic insulated jackets in stock, both Men's and Women's. Or if you know it's going to be below minus, you can always pay a visit to our Goose Down section!