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Review: MAMMUT GORE-TEX QUANTUM ULTRA-LIGHT JACKET Hats off to the rarely-experienced level of perfection in recent years

written by Outdoor Gearzine Editorial Department

Lightweight and thin rainwear is all the rage these days. However, while this type is sufficient for protecting against passing showers in mild seasons, it is definitely not enough for chilly seasons such as late autumn and when snow remains, or for long periods of heavy rain. If you plan on going on long mountain climbing or hiking trips, ultra-lightweight rainwear alone will not be enough. It is important to have at least one piece of rainwear that you can rely on in any situation

the MAMMUT GORE-TEX Quantum Ultra-Light Jacket , a versatile and highly-finished rainwear that's perfect for serious trekking and climbing, while also offering cutting-edge lightweight and comfortable features. We previously introduced it this article , but this time we'll provide a more detailed review after actually using it in the field.

General features

It uses a 12-denier GORE C-Knit Backer Technology material, the next generation of GORE-TEX, which has better breathability than conventional materials. It provides a dry and comfortable feel, high breathability, yet sufficient waterproofness and durability, and is a highly integrated element required for modern outdoor activities

In terms of functionality, comfort has been taken into consideration with features such as underarm ventilation for increased ventilation, a front double zipper that is easy to adjust, spacious hand warmer pockets with gussets, and an inner pocket. Other features include an easily adjustable helmet-compatible hood for alpine climbing, and a stable, refined design and silhouette, making this a highly versatile, authentic rainwear that is well-made down to the last detail

About MAMMUT

MAMMUT is a well-known outdoor brand known for its mammoth logo, but it is actually a long-established manufacturer that began in Switzerland over 150 years ago, selling rope for agricultural use. Since the 1970s, the company has expanded its business to include a wide range of categories, including clothing and backpacks, and a few years ago, it acquired the long-established Swiss hiking boot brand Reichel, further increasing its value as a comprehensive brand

Their products are designed for hard use in harsh environments, always incorporating the latest technology and carefully and meticulously crafted, and their high level of perfection has attracted many enthusiastic supporters, both professionals and amateurs. Even among the many slim designs found in Europe, their slim and stylish form is one of their defining features. I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels that wearing Mammut clothing in the mountains somehow gives off a more sophisticated vibe

Recommended points

  • Soft and comfortable to wear, easy to put on and take off
  • Convenient 3-way adjustable helmet-compatible hood
  • Plenty of easy-to-use pockets
  • Highly waterproof design in small areas such as the cuffs
  • Lightweight and flexible, yet robust, it can be used in any environment

Points that interest me

  • High performance, but high price
  • Even after adjusting the hood, it is deep and large, so your field of vision tends to be limited (we recommend wearing a helmet or other hat)

Item appearance (height: 174cm, worn as size S)

front

Back

Main Specifications and ratings

Specs
itemMAMMUT GORE-TEX Quantum Ultra-Light Jacket
material
  • GORE-TEX 3-Layer with C-Knit technology 12×12DEN
  • Outer Material: 100% Polyamide
  • Membrane: 100% Polytetraflourethylene
sizeXS, S, M, L, XL
Color variationsblack/dark atlantic/dark orange 
Weight (actual measurement)330g (EU-M size (Japan L size))
pocket
  • Two handwarmer pockets
  • Mesh inner pocket
Food3-way adjustable helmet compatible hood
water resistanceprivate
Breathabilityprivate
accessories
evaluation
Waterproof★★★★★
Breathability★★★★☆
Comfort★★★★★
Mobility★★★☆☆
weight★★★☆☆
Functionality★★★★★
Durability★★★★☆
General★★★★★

Detailed review

I was a little excited as I don't often get the chance to wear such a high-end model, so I tried it out on a rocky ridge in the rain

High overall performance in all aspects including waterproofing and functionality

It doesn't have any symbolic merits, but its overall high level makes it a highly all-around product

It's light to wear and doesn't restrict movement, and if it gets too hot you can open the underarm vents to regulate your body temperature, and you can raise and lower your hands smoothly.The overall silhouette is sleek and it's designed to not be blown around by the wind, and it's highly adaptable to the environment.It's a completely waterproof jacket with no apparent weaknesses, so much so that I find myself sentimental and wishing I could own many of these great jackets

It was soft and comfortable to wear, and easy to put on and take off. It also retains its shape even when stored, so it's great for being able to quickly put on if the weather suddenly changes

Three-dimensional cut for easy arm lifting

The three-dimensional cut allows for easy movement and makes it easy to put on. The "high reach" cut prevents the hem from rising even when you raise your arms. This is ideal when climbing or walking on rocky ridges where you use your hands frequently

Highly waterproof thanks to ingenious design

The cuffs have also been designed to be waterproof. The Velcro is very easy to operate even in the rain. I experienced this when wearing a hard shell in winter, but Mammut's clothing tends to have sleeves that are easy to fasten. The ease of use of parts that you may need to operate while moving is very important

Water-resistant zipper for comfortable movement

The waterproof zippers, including the front zipper, are easy to operate. The pockets are deep, which is a nice feature. There is also a separate mesh pocket on the inside

Ventilator function makes it easy to regulate body temperature

By the way, the trick to fastening this vent is to move it from top to bottom. It's difficult to move it the other way around. Also, since it's located under the armpits, it's difficult for rain to get in through the vent. However, be careful when using it on ridges or other windy areas

Large, deep helmet-compatible hood

The hood is designed to be large and deep, making it helmet-compatible. It's adjustable and deep enough to be comfortable even when wearing a brimmed hat or helmet. In my opinion, being able to easily pull the hood on while wearing a helmet when climbing is a major advantage. Also, when the front zipper is fully closed, it fits over the mouth and acts as a face guard, improving your ability to withstand bad weather

 

On the other hand, it can be difficult to use

The flip side of the advantage is the hood. It can't be helped since the concept is to be helmet compatible, but the hood is deep and large, so it gets in the way when you're not using it

You should adjust the size beforehand, but if you're not careful, it can obstruct your view like this. It was especially noticeable when looking up while climbing, so you should be careful

Summary: What kind of activities do you recommend?

Not only does it have the waterproofness and durability of conventional rain gear, but it also has convenient storage and functions throughout, making it suitable for any type of mountain climbing. And yet, it's surprisingly lighter than previous models, making it one of the most highly refined rainwear we've seen in recent years, ignoring the price

Its compatibility with helmets and its good balance of durability, lightness, and comfort make it a perfect match for climbing. It will be especially useful in the snowy and rainy seasons when it's difficult to decide what to wear

It's a great choice for hiking and mountain climbing in the snowy season, when thick hard shells are too hot and sudden changes in the weather can make it dangerous. It's also perfect for long-term mountain climbing and other activities in the green season, where it boasts excellent overall performance

By the way, I think it has enough potential to be used in winter mountains, but since the fabric is thin, it is not very warm, so you should choose where to use it carefully

This all-around model is lightweight, waterproof, and easy to use. While you should wear gear suited to your environment when out in the wild, every situation is different. There are many difficult situations, and I'm sure you've all experienced them. With this jacket, you'll never have to worry about what to wear. It reminds me of how much more reassuring it would have been if I'd had this jacket when I went hiking overseas in the past. It's so reliable, it's a piece I'd recommend to anyone

We also recommend this article about rainwear.