Peter Macfarlane says the Berghaus MTN Seeker ST Jacket offer good warmth for weight and an incredibly comfortable fit.
The Berghaus MTN Seeker ST Jacket is part of Berghaus’ Extrem range which is their top end mountain specific collection so I was looking for simple, practical and durable during testing for our guide to the the best fleeces. The fit is close with long arms and long body which is excellent under other layers. The articulation is perfect with no hem movement at all with both of my arms raised over my head.
Price: £130.00 (available to buy from Berghaus) | Weight: 384g size L | Materials: Polartec Power Stretch Pro | Hood: No | Front Closure: full zip | Pockets: two zipped mid height | Hem: stretch binding | Cuffs: stretch binding with elastic thumb loops | Sizes: XS to 2XL | Women’s version: Yes
I wore the Berghaus MTN Seeker ST Jacket a lot during last winter under various shells and rarely had to adjust it or pull the hem down even after prolonged ice axe swinging on ascents. The basic cut is very good but the fit and freedom of movement also come from the fabric choice – mostly Polartec Power Stretch Pro with a lighter variation under the arms and between the shoulders. The fabric is the thickest and warmest in tops in this men’s mid layer review, yet there is no noticeable weight penalty. The extra insulation meant I warmed up quicker when working hard but the fabric manages moisture very well, wicking sweat away from my base layer onto the smooth outer surface of the Power Stretch where it dries quickly in the right conditions – a little slower under a shell, very fast if it’s the outer layer.
The fabric is also very durable and has so far resisted snagging from rocks, trees and its careless wearer. I have found the Seeker needs regular washing to keep it fresh, a couple of longs days under a shell and it’s time to clean. The stretch binding at the neck, hem and cuffs is simple and comfortable.
The collar is a good height and seals any gaps when fully zipped without feeling restrictive and the zipper has a welcome anti snag feature for those with sensitive chins or beards. The cuffs have simple elastic thumb loops which are unrestrictive to use over gloves, they also roll past my elbows easily. The two zipped chest pockets are positioned at mid height, just above a pack hipbelt, although their internal mesh pocket ‘bags’ do extend below the hip belt.
