As part of of The Great Outdoors’ November 2020 review of women’s waterproof jackets, Judy Armstrong reviews the Fjällräven Keb Eco-Shell Jacket W
The Fjällräven Keb Eco-Shell Jacket W successfully balances those two vital elements: weight and protection. Eco-Shell, Fjällräven’s own 3L, has an impressive specification (30,000mm hydrostatic head, 26,000 breathability). It feels durable and inspires confidence in foul weather, yet weighs less than 500g (Medium). Cut is spacious (it was the largest Medium in the test) with good length.
The laminated zip has a wide stormflap backing and rises to my nose when fully zipped. Fortunately the fabric is supple enough to fold back when the zip is lower. The helmet-sized hood has rear adjustment and secured side pulls at the front. It cinches in well and the front of the collar can be pulled down off the mouth, reducing breath condensation.
Large side vents with two-way zips (no mesh) ensure fully adjustable airflow. Because of this pockets are located on the chest, with long laminated zips and hidden base bellows. Inside is a weird mesh stash pocket over each bra cup (no, I’ve no idea either). I did miss pockets to shelter hands in bad weather. There’s also an upper arm pocket (I could feel the laminated zip each time I bent my elbow as the sleeves are quite long; a taller person wouldn’t notice it) and internal mesh pocket.
The Fjällräven Keb Eco-Shell Jacket is made from recyclable polyester (both recycled and new), and emissions during production and transport are climate-compensated. An excellent winter-worthy waterproof jacket: there’s a reason it’s been in the range since 2015.
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