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Review: finetrack Everbreath Photon Jacket Next-generation rainwear that shines with attention to detail, not just stretchability

written by Outdoor Gearzine Editorial Department

Have you ever felt that your rainwear is so tense that it's difficult to move around in a small way while you're in the rain? Have you ever managed to keep wearing rainwear until the very last minute, even when it rains?

Anyone who has worn rainwear has probably experienced at least once feeling cramped, such as being concerned about the stiffness of the wearer or being tense when bent and stretched out. Rainwear is also known as the "shell," so it has always been like a heavy, hard shell. Climbing is an activity that involves more movement than you imagined, so it can be said that it is impossible for you to completely eliminate the stress caused by clothing interference. Along with "weight" and "breathability", improving mobility is one of the issues that each brand is most researching, and each company has continued to undergo various trial and error, including developing better three-dimensional cutting and soft, stretchy fabrics.

Among these, one of the biggest shocks I personally have had in recent years is the Finetrack Everbreath Photon Jacket . Not only is it carefully crafted, but what's surprising is its high stretch performance made from the original waterproof and breathable material "Everbless". We have now established a position that is enough to say things like "stretchy rain gear = finetrack." This rainwear has been renewed this season. Let's start a quick review of what has changed and how it is still amazing.

General features

The membrane (waterproof and breathable material) uses the company's waterproof and breathable material "Everbless," a waterproof and breathable material developed by the company, which uses a porous polycarbonate polyurethane membrane that is resistant to deterioration (hydrolysis). In addition to the supple feel of the three-layer type, the entire fabric is highly stretchable vertically, making it comfortable to move around while you are still at work without hindering your body's movements. By wearing the unique ventilation "Link Vent" with other FineTrack clothing, it can synergistically increase the temperature regulation function and the effect of expelling stuffiness. With this renewal, the cutting pattern has been revised to improve the fit, to improve the size of the fit, to a slimmer silhouette, and storage with a small inner pocket and a larger chest pocket on the outside, making it definitely more comfortable, stylish and easier to use.

Recommended points

  • The vertical stretch works well, and there is little stress to the wear while you are still at work.
  • The link vent (ventilation) in a unique position creates a comfortable temperature regulation function.
  • The zipper is comfortable
  • The hood is also compatible with helmets
  • The scope of adaptation activities is also wide

Points that interest me

  • In order to make the most of the link vent function, it is necessary to combine it with the company's products.
  • The link vent opens its mouth upward, making it easier for rain and wind to enter. You must take into consideration the usage environment, such as on the ridge.

Item appearance (height 174cm, worn by size M)

Front

Back

Main Specifications and ratings

Specs
itemfinetrack Everbreath Photon Jacket
material
  • Table: 15d stretch nylon double lip
  • Back: 15d nylon knit
  • Middle layer: Everbless membrane
size S, M, L, XL
Color variationsSO (Sunny Orange) / NV (Navy) / GC (Green Citrus) / CB (Serian Blue) 
Weight (actual measurement)280g
pocket
  • Left chest x 1
  • 1 large inner pocket on the right chest
Food
  • Brim part: Shape-retaining plastic
  • Built-in drawcord for adjusting fit
water resistanceOver 20,000 mm
Breathability10,000g/m2・24hr (A-1 method)
accessoriesStaff back included
evaluation
Waterproof★★★★☆
Breathability★★★★☆
Comfort★★★★★
 Mobility★★★★★
weight★★★☆☆
Functionality★★★★☆
Durability★★★★☆
General★★★★★

Detailed review

The amazingness of the original material "Everbless"

Stress-free functionality even when worn for long periods of time

The stretchability stretches firmly in the vertical direction. Good stretching means that you will need less resistance to following movements. This is the big attraction of this Everbless.

It stretches well in chains and rocks.

However, the fabric was soft and the lining was comfortable to wear, making it comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

It is also waterproof and breathable for a long time (about 6 hours in the rain) and is sufficient, not much different from the many waterproof and breathable materials.

Pursuit of ease of movement

Evolved cutting patterns

In addition to the highly stretchy fabric, the unique three-dimensional cutting of the "tornado sleeve" is designed to ensure ease of movement without compromise. You can see from the detailed cutting. It's also easy to put on. It's smooth without any resistance to movement of the shoulders and elbows. It is also perfect for climbing, ridge walking, and climbing.

Easy to use fasteners and placement that does not interfere with other gear

The waterproof zipper is also easy to operate, and the front pocket added after the renewal is in the perfect position to quickly take out the map, top, and compass. Although it's a small detail, I like this kind of attention to detail and attention to detail, which is typical of Fine Track.

Just the right size hood

The hood is just the right size, not too big or too small. The brim also retains its shape and fit can be adjusted, allowing it to maintain both waterproofness and vision.

The brim is also long enough to not obstruct your view.

There is a built-in adjustment drawcord behind it.

Link vent allows for more comfortable temperature control

This "Link Vent" is the company's unique ventilation function.

It is positioned so that the operation does not interfere with the backpack even when carrying it on your back. Some of the company's clothing have link vents in the exact same arrangement, so even if you wear them, the ventilation can always be accessed close to your body, making it extremely capable of regulating body temperature and allowing stuffiness to escape.

Link Vent is a concern

The mouth opens upwards

When I tried it, I was surprised to find that my mouth was open upwards. When you carry a backpack, the sagging clothing will open up in a relaxed, economical atmosphere. It's not a problem when it's just windy, but it's not like that when it's raining. Normally, it is common to check and close the ventilation before going up to the ridge, but you should avoid accidentally leaving it open and moving to a strong rainy and windy area.

If you lower your gaze while it is open, you can see that your mouth will open upwards like this.

Conditions are required to maximize ventilation effects

Link Vents always allow you to access the closest to your body, but unfortunately, you won't be able to feel the same unless the intermediate product belongs to the company. To get the most out of your ability, you need to have a set of models with the same functionality. All of the company's clothing is highly efficient and interesting, so if you're planning on getting a new pair of clothing or looking to buy a new one, it's a good idea to consider a set of intermediate clothing.

Summary: What kind of activities do you recommend?

Although we tend to pay attention to the high symbolic stretch performance, there are many features that show a very strong commitment, such as the hood construction, pockets, and link vent position. It is sure to handle a wide range of activities, from walking activities like mountain climbing to climbing activities like climbing. This highly complete, fully compatible rainwear focuses on ease of movement, and is actually a perfect design that will be useful all-around.

The best season to use is the green season from spring to autumn, and the fabric itself is supple and slightly thinner, so care must be taken when using the outer material in a situation where it is extremely stressful or seasonal use.

There are not many rainwear that are as convenient and interesting as long as they match the situation and season. For beginners who are thinking about replacing rainwear for the first time, it is a very attractive option for both, as it is not a huge burden on both functions and costs. This will likely lead to less likely not to wear rainwear until the very last minute, as it would be a million yen even if it rains. This is an extreme example, but rainwear is full of charm and functionality that makes people who have been cancelled or are distant from their plans, and this time they want to go out on a rainy day. It seems like it's not a bad idea to use it.

We also recommend this article about rainwear.