Montane Jackets - Which is best?!

zoso7

Velo H20, Featherlite Velo, Featherlite Smock, Featherlite Jetstream!!

Which is the best out of these jackets for breathability, water resistance and packability?!

is there anything better in the price range (£35-55) that you would recommend?!

In cold temperatures, will these jackets be suitable when layered with appropriate baselayers & jersey?!

Stellite

Ive got the velo H20, been using it for a couple of years.
It offers good wind and rain protection and is well made. The velo models have a longer back and articulated arms. It stuffs in a back pocket easily.

It can get quite warm and sweaty even with the back vents.

I dont think you can really win with a jacket, let the boil in the bag debate begin!

amaferanga

Velo, Smock and Jetstream pack about the same and are not really even water resistant. I have a Velo and a Jetstream and they're fine for summer showers and a good windproof, but for winter I would want something more waterproof. The Velo H2O is moderately water resistant, but it won't keep you dry for long. Packs almost as small as the others.

I also have a Montane Velocity DT jacket - proper waterproof, packs small enough to fit in a back pocket, but not as breathable as the others. Still pretty breathable though. I picked up this jacket and a Jetstream in the Evans sale recently for only £80.

red dragon

I have the Velo H20 and smock. Both excellent, but the H2O does have the "boil in the bag effect". One I have used is the OMM Vail jacket, designed for fell runners. It cost me £64 and is very good. Packs down, and can be stuffed into jersey pocket. Also very breathable and highly waterproof
http://www.theomm.com/assets/files/prod ... mlieka.pdf
also
https://www.pacecycles.com/product.asp? ... ubcat=469#
is worth looking at, bit more expensive but nevertheless an outstanding jacket. Again packs down so that it can be stuffed in your pocket.
Best of luck in your choice

zoso7

red dragon wrote:

I have the Velo H20 and smock. Both excellent, but the H2O does have the "boil in the bag effect".

RD, how would you class the smock size wise, is it quite loose fitting?! I'm 6'2" and have a 40-41" chest, will the large be a snug fit or fairly loose?! I dont wanna be flapping about as I cycle!!

red dragon

Hi zoso7,
I am five foot 10 and not quite a 42 inch chest, generally I go for a size large and it works. But I do try to check with the makers sizing guide. Some can be slimmer than others. My OMM Jacket is a size Large, as are my Montane jackets. these go on UK sizes. These do me okay, I try not to wear to much under my OMM and a bas layer up till now is okay. The Montane does have two front pockets on the chest whereas my OMM has only one large enough for a mobile or MP3.