The Montane Phase Lite jacket, combines low weight with a good fit, very good hood, and best-in-class fabric performance. The Phase Lite builds on prior Montane jackets, such as the lighter Spine, by using Gore-Tex Active Shell – but a heavier grade at 30D, more suitable for general mountain use.
Alex Roddie’s Best in Test
The only downside in an otherwise stellar picture is the very high price. But for performance this good, in a jacket that should last well, it’s arguably worth it.- Lightweight
- Excellent fit
- Superb Hood
- Very breathable
- Expensive
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £325 Weight: 308g (M) Materials: 30D Gore-Tex Active Shell Hood: stiffened peak, rear and side adjustments Front Closure: water-resistant zip with internal storm flap and hem press stud Underarm/Side Zips: none Pockets: 2x external Hem: adjustable drawcord Cuffs: Velcro Sizes: men S-2XL, women 8-16 Women’s/Men’s version: men’s (women’s direct equivalent available) montane.com |
A whisker over 300g makes for a jacket that’s light enough to carry as a backup, but robust enough for regular use under a pack. It’s extremely waterproof and the most breathable jacket I tested, with negligible condensation in all but the most awkward conditions (things can still get slightly damp when working hard uphill in humid, warm weather). I like the nice soft textured inner fabric. The fit is excellent – trim but not too athletic, with room for a midlayer underneath. And the hood is a particular strength, with a deep wired peak, full adjustment, and excellent face protection in driving rain.
Other design niceties include the best external pockets in the jackets I tested (not obscured by pack hipbelt, and with loads of room – although there’s no internal pocket). The Velcro cuffs are also good, offering lots of adjustment.
The only downside in an otherwise stellar picture is the very high price. But for performance this good, in a jacket that should last well, it’s arguably worth it.
Tested and reviewed by Alex Roddie
Alex tested his jackets on a series of day hikes and overnight backpacking trips in the Cairngorms and West Highlands. All weights are as measured on Alex’s digital scale (men’s Medium).
