FEATURES
Littered with innovative features, the Berghaus Extrem 8000 Pro is designed for mountaineering. Its Gore-Tex Pro material has a unique Xpanse back design for more stretch across the shoulders. There are two main pockets with mesh linings, a hood with wired peak and magnetic volume adjustment, and a zip-out perforated panel to allow easier breathing when the jacket is fully zipped up. 5/5
Related: Best Jackets
FIT
The Berghaus Extrem 8000 Pro comes in men’s sizes XS-XL, but there’s no women’s version. The fit is reasonably close but still allows outstanding freedom of movement. The unique Xpanse back design means there is no hint of cuff or hem movement when raising the arms, and absolutely no restriction across back and shoulders. The hood fits superbly and moves effortlessly with the head. It’s a pity women cannot benefit from it, though. 4/5
COMFORT
Gore-Tex Pro is the main fabric, and this offers a good all-round level of comfort. The hand pockets are mesh-lined so they can be used to vent the jacket, but in a hillwalking situation I would prefer that these were sealed to prevent water passing through pockets to the wearer. The two Napoleon pockets are sealed, however, which is better. 4/5
IN USE
Apart from those mesh-lined pockets the Berghaus Extrem 8000 Pro is stunning. It is about 5cm longer than the shorter jackets, with a scooped tail to protect the bum. The chest pockets and main pockets are all OS map-sized and easily accessed. The hood is superb, although others do have a deeper peak for even more face protection. The sleeve movement is outstanding. 5/5
VALUE
The price is extreme and hard to justify unless you really need the Xpanse back and the stunning freedom of movement. RRP: £450. 2/5
VERDICT
The Berghaus Extrem 8000 Pro is an extremely good design for extreme mountaineering conditions – with an extreme price tag. 4.0/5