This new jacket from Berghaus is interesting because it uses three weights of fill – 60, 80 and 100 g/m2 – in a body mapping pattern designed to position the thickest insulation where it’s needed most. This results in a jacket that is surprisingly warm for the weight. The fill is Berghaus’s own Hydroloft, which performs very much like other top end synthetic insulations, being breathable, water-resistant and fast drying. The outer shell is windproof and water-resistant Pertex Microlight, the lining a very lightweight plain nylon.
The Capuchin has a good design with an excellent adjustable hood and a large chest pocket that will just take a map. The handwarmer pockets are a little on the small side though and are covered by a hipbelt. The inner pocket is a good place to store gloves to keep them warm. The outer pocket zips are concealed ones with very small pullers that are awkward to grasp with cold fingers or gloves.
The Capuchin is warm and comfortable and a good choice for cold, damp weather. The sizing is on the small side though and I can only wear it comfortably over a thin base layer. I suspect most people will want to go up a size.
First published: Oct 2014
