Review: MONTANE MINIMUS JACKET: High-performance rainwear that's more than just lightweight

Wear

Thursday, June 11, 2015

Gear Review , Rainwear , MONTANE

Written by Yasushi Hisatomi

table of contents

A highly refined masterpiece that is worth the weight, functionality, and design
Detailed Review
Summary: What activities is it recommended for?

A highly refined masterpiece that is worth the weight, functionality, and design

The recent trend in outdoor gear toward "lighter and more compact" seems set to continue, but we're constantly amazed by the manufacturers who respond to users' insatiable demands with products that exceed expectations. The Minimus Jacket is an ultra-lightweight rainwear that's lighter and more compact than ever before, yet highly functional and stylish. It's no exaggeration to say that its high level of perfection is the culmination of the determination and pride of Montane, a British manufacturer that is one of the top manufacturers in the fast and light category. Let's get started with the review

For a thorough comparison of recommended rainwear, including the Minimus Jacket, please see "Comparative Test: A Comparison of Ultra-Lightweight Rainwear Perfect for Mountain Climbing and Running [2016 Edition]"

We also recommend this article about rainwear

Detailed Review

Item name (price)

MONTANE MINIMUS JACKET (Reference price: 29,160 yen)

Front/back

Main specifications and evaluation

evaluation
Waterproof (20 points)	16
Breathability (20 points)	16
Comfort (20 points)	16
Weight (10 points)	9
Storage capacity (10 points)	9
Durability (5 points)	2
Ease of use (5 points)	4
Design (5 points)	5
Price (5 points)	3
Overall score	80
Specifications
material	15D + 40D PERTEX Shield+ nylon rip-stop
Layer	2.5 layer
Color variations	Black Blue spark Shadow Vivid green
weight	232g (size M)
pocket	1 (chest)
pit zip	none
Food	Helmet compatible
Storage method	Stuff sack included

This is amazing!

Incredibly light and compact

Considering that regular rain gear weighs around 400g, this rainwear weighs about half that (232g for size M), making it one of the lightest ultra-light rainwear trends these days , its incredible packability, collapsing to the size of an apple as shown in the photo, is one of the major features of the PERTEX Shield+ fabric used in this rainwear. Incidentally, its specifications surpass those of current competing products (such as the OUTDOOR RESEARCH HELIUM HD JACKET).

High breathability for comfort and unique fabric processing for a soft feel

Another feature of PERTEX Shield+ is its excellent breathability (25,000 MVTR moisture transmission rate), which is numerically superior to Gore-Tex. To maximize breathability, the lining seams are treated with micro-tape seams, and every detail has been carefully considered, not just the material's performance. When I actually tried wearing it and hiking, I found it so comfortable that I could wear it over a T-shirt for the entire hike, even on a day hike in low humidity for .

Furthermore, despite being so thin, prevents the outer lining from slipping when worn as a backpack

Excellent fit and freedom of movement thanks to excellent tailoring

The three-dimensional cut that doesn't restrict body movement , which is also thoroughly used in other Montane garments, is still alive and well here. The tailoring prevents the hem from lifting up , and the hood with three adjusters that effectively shuts out rain and wind is particularly outstanding. The fit is excellent, and it is a meticulous design that truly considers the user.

Other rainwear has similar parts, but the Minimus Jacket has an exceptional fit

Large, easy-to-use pocket that also serves as ventilation

The pockets are large enough to hold maps, and there is also a D-ring on the inside

The pockets are lined with mesh, which allows for ventilation when it's hot

The pocket is large enough to fit a map , and the lining is made of breathable mesh, which also acts as ventilation (although only to a small extent).

High quality of other basic parts

The adjustable Velcro cuffs with tabs allow for ventilation when it's hot, or protection from rain when it's raining

The hem can be adjusted with drawcords on both sides to prevent wind and rain from seeping in and to prevent body heat loss

This is not so good

durability

While this is unavoidable with such thin and lightweight fabric, the overall fragility cannot be denied. It wasn't a problem on normal mountain trails, but it felt like it would easily tear if it got caught on a rock or tree branch. Bushwalking in this would be quite a challenge. Also, with long-term use, the lining coating of 2.5-layer fabric inevitably weakens, so this is an issue I'll need to be mindful of in the future (unconfirmed)

Summary: What activities is it recommended for?

If you're looking for lightweight, compact rainwear to take on hikes of a few hours, this item is definitely recommended. However, keep in mind that you shouldn't expect this one item to cover all your activities all year round. Although it may protect you from wind and rain to some extent, it won't withstand prolonged, heavy rain. In that sense, it's ideal for light, fast mountain climbing trips of one day or overnight. Of course, it's also the best choice for short-term activities such as trail running and cycling, where lightweight and compactness is a priority

MINIMUS JACKET

MONTANE

29,160 yen

232g

Pertex Shield+ (2.5 layers)