Munro is perhaps a strange name for a jacket to be reviewed in snow magazine but Scottish brand Keela know a thing or two about harsh mountain kit. Having two distinct arms to their brand, Keela produces clothing for both the leisure market and for military and Mountain Rescue.
The technology trickles between both, resulting in extremely hardy gear that's been proven to work time and time again.
The Munro is Keela's flagship hardshell. It's a no-nonsense piece, with a barrage of features designed to help you survive in the toughest mountain environments. It also comes at a very keen price considering the specs, so despite not being your classic ski jacket it's a jacket worthy of consideration for ski holidays.
It features Keela's 'Explorer Fit' which favours practicality over aesthetics. There is room for layering underneath even with a large down jacket. Fully waterproof and windproof the Munro also aims to be highly breathable, utilising Keela's System Dual Protection technology to wick moisture away from the body. This keeps the climate inside the jacket dry and pleasant.
Your head is well protected from the elements by a 4-way adjustable hood that you can roll away. The wired peak extends far away from the head to divert water away from the face, and the jacket zips up high over the face for excellent overall protection. There is even a neck baffle to stop wind from getting down your jacket from the top. The front zip is very chunky and durable and although not waterproof is protected by double storm flaps, hook-and-loop closures, and snap fasteners - talk about belt and braces!
Being at the Munros used and relied upon in critical situations you can assume that it's built to last. Reinforced panels run along the shoulders and down the tops of the arms where abrasion from packs is likely to occur, and the remainder of the material feels very thick and durable. The downside to all this build is of course the weight of the jacket, which tips the scales at just over a kilo.
Coverage continues to be excellent at the hem where the dropped hem at the back comes just below the bottom and the rest of the length of the front is generous. it's a similar story in the arms where the cuffs come down over the wrists and can be cinched over or under gloves using Velcro fasteners.
There are two large chest pockets designed to work well while wearing packs, a map-sized internal pocket, and a separate phone pocket. You will also find a detachable snow skirt inside the jacket which is obviously ideal, not only for mountain rescue missions but for general skiing. Should you overheat there are very large pit vents, once again protected by double storm flaps.
There's no getting away from the fact that the Munro is a fairly heavy and cumbersome jacket but there's a sense of security when you put it on that you just don't get with a wafer-thin lightweight ski jacket. This level of protection also comes at a low price compared to big-name brands, so if you're looking for a hardy jacket for general outdoor use and the odd ski holiday the Munro is a fantastic option.
Buy Keela Munro Jacket: From £189.95 at Amazon (UK)
