Mammut Stratus Flash Jacket

Maybe I'm just getting soft or it could be that this winter was colder than some others but I have yet to go out on a winter's outing this year without my Stratus Flash Jacket either on my back or in my pack.

More than just an insulated flyweight jacket and less than an big, oversized belay parka, this highly compressible and lightweight insulated jacket is what I call an "active use" insulation layer that provides me with maximum warmth with minimum weight. Worn outside over my lightweight Alverstone jacket it performs well as a belay parka in zero degrees Or for when it gets really nasty I can use it as an active layer piece when I climb through the nasty iced-up chimneys on Long's Peak.

The Pertex outer shell breathes really well while still keeping moisture out. The fit allows me to move athletically and the sculpted hood works equally well either under or over my climbing helmet. When not in use I can roll the hood back and it functions well as an high and insulated collar. Two inside pockets keep extra gloves warm or food bars soft. When I'm not using the jacket I stuff it into its own chest pocket and the compact shape disappears in my pack. I've been using this jacket weekly since Oct. 2009 and have yet to notice any loss of loft or compression of insulation.

The weight is just 13.2 oz (men's medium).

Like any other piece of gear that consistently performs well outdoors, this jacket will go with me on summer as well as on all-season trips. The warmth and comfort it provides keeps me happy all the time.

Jack Roberts Team Mammut