Review: finetrack Everbreath Photon Jacket: Next-generation rainwear that offers more than just stretch
Written by Outdoor Gearzine Editorial Department
Have you ever felt that your rainwear was getting too tight and making it difficult to move around while you were out in the rain? Then, gradually, wearing rainwear became a chore, and even when it started to rain, you ended up continuing to move around without putting on rain gear until the very last moment
Anyone who has worn rainwear has likely experienced the discomfort of feeling stiff and uncomfortable, or the tightness that comes with bending and straightening their arms. Rainwear is also known as a "shell," and so it has traditionally been heavy and hard, like a shell. Mountaineering involves more movement than you might imagine, so it's safe to say that it's currently impossible to completely eliminate the stress caused by interference from clothing. Along with weight and breathability, improving mobility is one of the areas that brands are most focused on, and each company has continued to experiment with various methods, such as developing better three-dimensional cuts and soft, stretchy fabrics.
the finetrack Everbreath Photon Jacket that I'm introducing today is one of the most shocking products I've personally experienced in the past few years . Its careful construction is a given, but what's most surprising is the high stretchability of its proprietary waterproof and breathable material, "Everbreath." It has now established itself as such that the term "stretchable rainwear = finetrack" has even been coined. This rainwear has been renewed this season. Let's take a quick look at what has changed and whether it's still as amazing as ever.
table of contents
General characteristics
The waterproof and breathable membrane (waterproof and breathable material) is made of "Ever Breath," a three-layer material developed by Finetrack, which uses a porous film of polycarbonate-based polyurethane that is resistant to degradation (hydrolysis). In addition to the supple feel of the three-layer construction, the entire fabric has high vertical stretch, allowing for unrestricted movement and comfortable mobility even when active. The unique ventilation system, "Link Vent," can be worn with other Finetrack apparel to synergistically enhance body temperature regulation and moisture release. With this latest renewal, the fit has been improved through revised cutting patterns, the silhouette has evolved to a slimmer silhouette, and a larger exterior chest pocket has been added in addition to a small interior pocket for added storage, making it undoubtedly more comfortable, stylish, and easy to use
Recommended points
- The vertical stretch is effective, so there is almost no stress from the garment feeling tight while you are moving
- The uniquely positioned link vent (ventilation) provides comfortable body temperature regulation
- The zipper moves easily
- The hood is also helmet compatible
- The scope of adaptation activities is wide
Points of interest
- To make the most of the Link Vent function, it needs to be combined with other products from the same company
- The link vent opens upwards, making it easier for wind and rain to get in. It is important to consider the environment in which you will be using it, such as on a ridge
Item appearance (height 174cm wearing size M)
front
Back
Main specifications and evaluation
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| item | finetrack Everbreath Photon Jacket |
| material |
|
| size | S, M, L, XL |
| Color variations | SO (Sunny Orange) / NV (Navy) / GC (Green Citrus) / CB (Celian Blue) |
| Weight (measured) | 280g |
| |
| Food |
|
| water resistance | Over 20,000 mm |
| Breathability | 10,000g/m2・24hr (A-1 method) |
| accessories | Comes with a stuff bag |
| evaluation | |
| waterproof | ★★★★☆ |
| Breathability | ★★★★☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| mobility | ★★★★★ |
| weight | ★★★☆☆ |
| Functionality | ★★★★☆ |
| durability | ★★★★☆ |
| General | ★★★★★ |
Detailed Review
The amazingness of our unique material "Ever Breath"
Stress-free functionality even when worn for long periods of time
The stretchability is strong in the vertical direction. Good stretchability means that there is less resistance when it follows your movements. This is the great appeal of Everbreath
It stretches well on chain sections and rocky areas
But not only that, the fabric is soft and the lining is comfortable to wear, making it comfortable to wear for long periods of time
In terms of waterproofing and breathability, I used it for a long time (about 6 hours in the rain) and it is just as good as many other waterproof and breathable materials
Pursuit of ease of movement
Improved cutting pattern
In addition to the exceptionally stretchy fabric, the unique "tornado sleeve" three-dimensional cutting ensures uncompromising ease of movement, as can be seen from the fine cut. It's easy to put on and allows smooth, unresisting movement of the shoulders and elbows. It's also perfect for mountain climbing, ridge walking, and climbing
Easy-to-use zipper and placement that doesn't interfere with other gear
The waterproof zipper is easy to operate, and the new front pocket, added after the redesign, is conveniently located for quickly accessing a map, topo, or compass. It's a small detail, but it's this attention to detail that makes Finetrack so appealing
Just the right size hood
The hood is just the right size, not too big or too small. The brim holds its shape and is adjustable for a perfect fit, maintaining both waterproofness and visibility
The brim is long enough not to obstruct your view
There is a built-in drawcord at the back for adjustment
Link Vent for better temperature regulation
The company's unique ventilation function is the "Link Vent"
The vents are positioned so that they do not interfere with operation even when wearing a backpack. Some of the company's clothing has link vents in exactly the same position, so even when wearing multiple layers, the ventilation is always close to the body, making it extremely effective at regulating body temperature and releasing moisture
Link Vent: What you're curious about
The mouth opens upwards
What surprised me when I tried it was that the opening opens upwards. When you're wearing a backpack, the looseness of your clothing causes the opening to open up quite easily. This isn't a problem when it's just wind, but it's not the same when it's raining. Normally, you would check and close the ventilation properly before reaching a ridge, but you don't want to accidentally leave it open and head into a windy area
If you look down with your mouth open, you can see that your mouth opens upwards like this
Conditions are necessary to maximize the ventilation effect
Link Vent always provides access to the area closest to your body, but unfortunately, you won't get that feeling unless you also buy mid-layers from the same company. To get the most out of it, you need to buy models with the same features. All of the company's clothing is high-performance and interesting, so if you're looking to buy new clothing or replace your old ones, it's a good idea to consider buying a mid-layer as part of the set
Summary: What activities is it recommended for?
While the iconic high stretch performance tends to grab your attention, there are actually many other features that show great attention to detail, such as the construction of the hood, pockets, and the positioning of the link vents. It is sure to be suitable for a wide range of activities, from walking activities like mountain climbing to climbing activities like mountaineering. While focusing on ease of movement, the meticulous construction makes it a highly complete, all-around rainwear that can be used in all situations
The best season to use it is the green season from spring to autumn. The fabric itself is flexible and slightly thin, so care and consideration should be taken when using it in situations or seasons where the outer fabric will be under a lot of stress
As long as you match it to the occasion and season, you won't find a rainwear item that is as convenient and fun to use as this one. It's not only functional, but also affordable, making it an attractive option for both beginners buying rainwear for the first time and experienced users considering replacing their old ones. This will likely reduce the number of times you wait until the last minute to put on your rainwear, thinking that rain will cost you a fortune. This is an extreme example, but it's enough to make people who have canceled plans or stayed away from going out want to go out on rainy days, turning them into such eccentric people with its charm and functionality. It's definitely worth trying
We also recommend this article about rainwear
- Types of rainwear and how to choose them - things to check before you buy
- This season's must-have mountain climbing rainwear [for hiking and trekking]
- This season's must-have ultra-lightweight rainwear [for trail running and fastpacking]
- Comparison Review: What is the best rainwear to have when hiking?
- Comparison Review: Ultra-lightweight Rainwear for Mountain Climbing and Running [2016 Spring/Summer]
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