table of contents
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
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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) |
| 1 (chest) | |
| pit zip | none |
| Food | Helmet compatible |
| Storage method | Stuff sack included |
This is amazing!
Incredibly light and compact
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
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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