Montane Extreme Smock Jacket

The Extreme Smock has become a modern outdoor classic. The first truly technical softshell, single layer mountain garment. Designed and built without compromise. Tested in extreme and hostile conditions for nearly 20 years by mountaineers, climbers and on multiple high Arctic and Antarctic expeditions, both the Extreme Smock and Extreme Jacket have become trusted favourites of Mountain Rescue teams and outdoor professionals across the world. Highly windproof, breathable and fast drying PERTEX Classic 6 outer shell Reinforced tough POLARDRI elbows Articulated arms for reach high movement and tailored specifically to reduce hem lift Fully adjustable and removable pile lined helmet compatible mountain hood with three point adjustment and wired peak Soft fleece beardguard around face and mouth for extra comfort Two deep A-line hand-warmer venting pockets with YKK zips positioned well clear of backpack or climbing harness belt MONTANE Cross-Vent system to aid cooling whilst working hard Large pouch pocket with accessory attachment ring Glove attachment loops on forearms ½ length baffled YKK front zip Two way YKK zippered side vents with storm flap Adjustable cuffs with grab tabs for ease of use with gloves or mitts Adjustable hem to prevent spindrift entry and heat loss Removable crotch strap to prevent hem riding up whilst reaching high SCOTCHLITE reflective details for mountain safety Manufacturers Review: Amazing performance in nasty conditions.FIVE STARS I wore the Extreme Smock everyday on a 10 day ice climbing trip in the Alps this February. I wore it over the top of a merino wool base layer and was fine for climbing and belaying like this on all but the coldest day. The massive amounts of ventilation helped a lot on the walk ins and meant that I could wear the jacket instead of stuffing it in my sac saving space. The velcro waist adjustment helped me a lot, being 6'2" with long arms a 32" waist I find it hard to get clothes which are long enough without having too much volume. The velcro adjustment stopped the wind from getting inside and cooling me down which happens a lot with other garments. The outer shell worked very well and defended me from dripping icicle and bitter cold wind, the tougher patches on the elbows are very beneficial. The hood was very cozy , fitted amazingly over my climbing helmet and was amazing at boosting the smocks heat retention. What impressed me the most about this garment was how well it dealt with getting wet. During a climb a large block of ice fell into the pool above my pitch and sent a surge of icey cold water down my pitch. After hanging on for a minute I down climbed and was lowered into the sun. My baselayer was soaked and very cold however the pile lining of the Montane Extreme smock was completely dry! I removed the cold and wet baselayer and wore the smock next to my skin. We then continued up the next four pitches! If only my gloves could have dried up like the smock did. Here is a video after I had lowered off if you need any proof! https://vimeo.com/62621082 After hanging above a radiator the smock was ready to be worn again the next day. I was very glad that I was wearing this instead of a primaloft/softshell and doubt I would have been able to finish the remaining pitches without it. I can't believe pile fleece is not more popular! The only downsides would be the weight of the jacket (which is somewhat offset by the ability to wear it all day) and the front pouch pocket which bulges out and restricts visibility of feet and harness when the pocket contains something (spare gloves, hat). I did like the amazing handwarmer capability of the belly pocket though. Personally I would prefer the hood to be permanently attached but can see the benefits of the removable option. I would highly recommend that anyone going out into the hills in the UK or abroad to try the Extreme smock. Author: Oliver Crudge