Introduction
My new shell, the Mountain Equipment Makalu. It seems like I’m a mountain equipment fanboy at this point. I can’t lie, I kind of am. I love a lot about the brand and the quality of everything I have had so far. However, will the Mountain Equipment Makalu stand up to everything else I have from them? we will find out in this post, along with looking over the specs and seeing if this coat is worth it.
This jacket comes in 4 colours and has an RRP of £300. I got the red one as I like my outermost piece of gear to be brightly coloured just in case something bad ever happens in the mountains and I need to call for help. My thinking is it will make me a bit more visible.
Product Images
Product Specifications
- New GORE-TEX with ePE membrane and FC free DWR
- 3-Layer construction with 75D face fabric for durability
- 2 large pockets with YKK® WR zips
- Napoleon chest pocket with YKK® WR zip
- 2-way YKK® moulded Aquaguard® centre front zip
- 2-way YKK® WR underarm pit zips
- Adjustable laminated cuffs and dual tether hem drawcords
- GORE-TEX Rain Test Certified
- 13mm taped seams to prevent water entry
- Internal centre-front storm guard with fastener
- Laminated and bonded hanging loop
- GORE-TEX 3-Layer 75D / 170gsm (Shoulders, Rear Hem & Upper Sleeve)
- GORE-TEX 3-Layer 50D / 149gsm (Main Body & Hood)
- 100% Polyester Face, ePE membrane with solution dyed Tricot backer
- Laser cut and laminated inner pocket
- Laminated and wired visor
- Internal hood adjuster cord channels
- Pre-shaped and articulated sleeves for greater freedom of movement when reaching up / climbing
- Laminated cuff tab with Velcro
- Hydrostatic Head: 28,000mm
- Breathability: RET – 9m2Pa/W
Specs Review
Buckle up for this specification list, I have condensed it a bit. If you want to see the full specs head over to the Mountain Equipment Makelu page. This Jacket has been designed and built with the customer in mind and you can see that when you look into the specification list. The effort that has been put in to develop a coat of this calibre at this price is truly astonishing.
The hood is rated at 28,000mm that’s a hell of a lot of protection against the elements. They have also put thicker and thinner fabric exactly where it needs to be to aid the movement and strength of the jacket. You can make your own decision based on these specs alone. If you have the funds I would 100% recommend this jacket to any hiker, mountaineer and even climber.
Personal Review
So, what do I think about this coat, and at £300 is it worth the money? Mountain Equipment offers a huge range of waterproof shell jackets, all designed for different things. With the type of mountaineering I am into, why did I go for this specific one?
I know £300 is a lot, but for the amount of time I spend in the mountains it’s worth the investment for me. If I had unlimited money for a shell, I would have gone for something like the Tupilak or the Changabang, due to these having more features for the harder routes I want to do, along with being the stronger Gore-Tex pro.
However, I love this coat. For £300 I think it gives you everything you need, and will certainly hold up to technical mountaineering. It may be standard Gore-Tex, however, it is layered and on the thicker side, so they are coming in at 50D-75D, meaning this coat will be able to take a beating from the mountains.
I have used this coat on the mountains in Scottish winter, with 120+Kmph winds with Ice and snow. It’s safe to say I have tested it in the elements. I will also be taking it to Chamonix with me.
As for the sizing, with an outer shell, I always find it difficult to decide what is the right size for me. If it’s hot, but rainy and windy, I may not want many layers under the coat. However, if it’s cold as it often is, having something that is snug with no layers makes choosing the right fit tough. Which is why I go for medium. It is a little bit long on my arms, but when I have layers on it’s perfect. When wearing fewer layers I just use the Velcro on the sleeves to not have them too far down my hand. It is good to test things like this in a shop with and without layers before you buy, to choose what’s best for your personal preference.
My Favourite Features
There are a few aspects of this coat that sold it to me. With a budget of £300, Gore-Tex Pro wasn’t an option for me. However, the layering and thickness of this Gore-Tex is perfect. Additionally, having all the zips and openings laminated gives this jacket a perfect seal meaning no need to worry about water seeping through.
The hood is also a great size for wearing with a helmet and has an insert in the tip for added stability in harsher conditions and keeps it from flopping onto your face.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Mountain Equipment Makalu jacket has proven to be a worthy investment for avid mountaineers. Priced at £300, it offers exceptional durability and functionality, making it suitable for challenging terrains and harsh weather conditions. Despite not featuring Gore-Tex Pro, its layered and thick Gore-Tex construction provides ample protection against the elements.
The jacket’s design, including laminated zips and adjustable cuffs, ensures a snug fit and reliable performance. With features like a helmet-compatible hood and reinforced fabric, it stands out as a reliable companion for outdoor adventures. Overall, the Mountain Equipment Makalu jacket delivers excellent value for its price and is recommended for hikers, mountaineers, and climbers alike.
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Disclaimer: Mountain Equipment haven’t sponsored or gifted anything to me. This post is fully funded by myself. Outdoor Ascent promises to always give 100% honest reviews sponsored or not.
