LIGHTWEIGHT INSULATOR GETS MODERN MAKEOVER
THE POPULAR MONTANE PRISM HAS BEEN UPDATED, BUT HAS IT BEEN IMPROVED?
Small changes can make a huge difference, so when a brand updates a popular product it can be make or break time. Montane’s Prism (and Prismatic for women) insulated jacket has been a favourite with hillwalkers for a few years now. This autumn heralds the arrival of the updated version, so do the changes add up to even better performance or has this jacket lost its appeal?
Designed primarily as an easy-to-pack insulated jacket that balances weight with warmth, the Prism/Prismatic has always been a popular jacket to stow in a rucksack. Ideal for throwing on when the temperature drops on the summit, it is also breathable enough to wear during the descent until the temperature rises.
Mountain-friendly features like a hood, great pockets and the all-important low weight and packed size make it appealing. But it also uses environmentally-friendly materials and has the benefit of maintaining its performance when damp better than down insulation. All that for a price that is lighter on the pocket than a down insulated equivalent, makes the Prism and Prismatic ideal for the modern hillwalker. Check out the best of the benefits below...
5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Recycled insulation
Primaloft Silver insulation uses 100% post-consumer recycled material to keep you warm. This offers just about the right level of insulation to take the chill off summit rests through autumn, and can also be comfortable while walking.
Durable lining
Montane claims the Featherlite Mini Ripstop 20-denier nylon used inside the jacket is more durable than earlier versions, so the jacket should last a little longer if you’re a hard user.
Great hood
A wired peak, face drawcords and rear cord volume adjuster make this a great hood.
Useful pocket
A chest pocket has now been added – perfect for a GPS receiver or phone, as well as small walking guidebooks.
Windproof zip
The main zip to the jacket is now a YKK Vislon with an internal stormflap to keep drafts at bay, and a nice wide area of soft material at the top to prevent the zip scraping the chin.
TRAIL VERDICT
The Montane Prism/Prismatic continues to be the ideal insulated jacket for hillwalkers looking for an affordable, packable jacket that offers both environmental benefits and practical performance on the hill.
Serious stuff:
Price £125
Insulation Primaloft Silver insulation (100% recycled)
Shell Pertex Quantum 30D nylon
Lining Featherlite Mini Ripstop 20D nylon
Sizes S-XXL (men’s Prism); 8-16 (women’s Prismatic)
Weight 418g (size M)