I lived on the edge a little bit and took Montane‘s “technical mountain walking shell” skiing. The Direct Ascent eVent Jacket outperformed what I would have expected from a walking jacket. The totally waterproof fabric and YKK Aqua Guard zippers definitely gave this jacket the upper hand on the super wet and snowy day.
The Direct Ascent is a great alpine touring jacket because on the way up, I’m sweating and hot, yet I still need a waterproof layer. The eVent waterproof fabric used is a very breathable fabric. So you’re keeping the moisture out but not holding the sweat in.
My favorite feature of this jacket is the sleeves. So simple yet so very important. The sleeves fit long and narrow, but not so narrow that I have to fight the cuff to fit over my glove. They fit snug against my glove so cold wind doesn’t whip up my sleeve. There are even some adjustable cuff tabs so if you prefer the cuff really tight, you have the option.
When zipped all the way up, the jacket provides a nice sun and wind block, protecting your pretty face. Combined with a fully adjustable and wire-brimmed hood, it’s easy to keep the elements out.
There are two hand pockets and an internal pocket for valuables but keep in mind there are no pit zips.
Montane is a company out of the UK so be sure to keep this in mind when ordering. I should’ve sized up one size so I could layer underneath without looking like I gained 30 pounds. The Direct Ascent is a little tight with winter layers underneath, but I can imagine a perfect fit in the summer with minimal layering.
I love the fact that I can wear this jacket touring in the winter and hiking in the summer. It’s a multi-seasonal jacket if you’re willing to work with it and you’re layering systems. Check out Montane and all of their outdoor outfitting products!
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