Although it's been revised, Rab Carrington designed this jacket 30 years ago. He got it right.
Let's get some minor gripes out of the way first; even with multiple layers underneath, the Andes jacket still fits rather large. For single-day ski tours the pack size and weight (980 grams) may seem a little excessive. And in an arctic storm the recessed pocket openings tend to collect snow.
But the bottom line with this jacket is it keeps you warm. Seriously warm. As mentioned, it is probably overkill for a daypack, even in the Arctic (as long as you keep moving). But for an overnight camp, for watching the Aurora Borealis or setting up the polar bear trip wire, and for sitting out 100 mph winds from the far north, it simply works. This reviewer did not feel the polar chill in any of those situations.
Using a combination of Pertex Quantum and Pertex Endurance adds durability and weather resistance to the superb insulation of the 800 fill power Hydrophobic down. Box wall construction and helmet compatible hood complete the 'lightweight expedition' credentials of the Andes jacket.
A warm comforting hug of a jacket even in the face of extreme Arctic weather.
