MONTURA PAC MIND JACKET & 2024 Spring/Summer Rainwear Review: Unique and calculated attention to detail remains as exciting as ever

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Rainwear, one of the essential items for mountain climbing and hiking, requires many functions, not just to prevent rain and wind. This is especially true in Japan, where the weather is complicated, with four seasons and the rainy season. Not only does it prevent rain and wind, but it also has breathability and breathability to keep you comfortable even when moving in humid climates, and (to some degree) insulation that can withstand a wide range of temperature differences. Of course, in addition to its durability and portability that accommodates tough routes, it is also important to wear and move around when worn. If you want to wear it all year round in the mountainous area of ​​Japan, rainwear should have a high level of balance, not only light and waterproof, but also a variety of functions.

When considering the "elite-class rainwear outfit," the MONTURA PAC MIND JACKET that we'll introduce today the MONTURA PAC MIND JACKET . This latest waterproof jacket is finished by Montura, which has been supported by users who want real things, from alpinists and mountain guides to rescue teams, and is packed with the creator's attention to detail, not only the protection and lightness required for active activities in harsh conditions, but also the lightweight and compact design that is easy to carry. In addition to this PAC MIND JACKET , I was able to try out three pieces, including two of the representative models of the Montura rain jacket family, which match a variety of uses, so I would like to review them right away.

I tried out PAC MIND JACKET on my spring mountain climbing and hiking.

Main features of MONTURA PAC MIND JACKET

MONTURA PAC MIND JACKET is a rain jacket that is perfect for a variety of activities in harsh outdoor environments. It uses the GORE-TEX Paclite Plus product with a lightweight, highly storage 2.5-layer structure, and while it is lightweight and compact, it combines excellent weather resistance and durability. The lining has a three-dimensional surface that has been treated with abrasion resistant treatment, providing a comfortable feel and a supple feel. The clever three-dimensional cutting that is unique to Montura provides outstanding ease of movement with minimal weight. In addition, the uniquely designed hood fits the head just by placing stretch material on the back of the head, a cuff and hem that combines comfort and airtightness, a smooth, highly airtight front vislon zipper, and a packable design that allows you to store things by turning the inside mesh pocket inside out, and a minimal weight that is required for serious outdoor activities such as climbing, mountain climbing, and trekking.

Favorite points

• Despite its lightweight, excellent weather resistance and durability
• Highly breathable, smooth and dry texture that is comfortable even on top of a T-shirt
• A stretchy back of the head fits without adjustment, and a long brim and windproof flap for excellent waterproof hood
• Three-dimensional cutting for easy movement
• Packable design that can be stored in an inner pocket
• Stretch material provides both sealing and fit
• Smooth and lightweight waterproof front vislon zipper

Interesting points

• Armpit ventilation (pit zip) for better ventilation, or a double front zipper would be even better.
• The stretch material on the back of the head is not easily dry out when wet.
• A chest pocket is even more convenient when you're on the move

Main Specifications and ratings

Detailed review worn on the spring trail

Comfortable to wear: Light and supple, slim and lean silhouette, yet easy to move around

As soon as I hold it, I am excited by its soft and lightness. The weight of less than 300 grams is not just formal. It is also very thin, but still has a subtle stiffness, so although it is light, it feels reliable as a shell.

The waistline has a slightly slim silhouette. The armholes are also tight and dowels do not look like they are dowels, giving them a sophisticated look that is typical of Italy. However, it is not too slim that you can't wear a mid-layer inside, so there's no need to worry about rainwear that can accommodate a wide range of activities all year round. As usual, the three-dimensional cutting from the shoulders to the arms is stunning, with no resistance to movement of the upper body, such as raising and lowering the arms, and no sense of pulling the hem.

Wearing size M (176cm, 62kg)

The lining of the GORE-TEX PACLITE® PLUS is specially coated to improve durability and keep the skin apart, and the surface of the lining has a slight unevenness. This three-dimensional structure hides the vinyl-like, light-painted look that was typical of 2.5-layer rain jackets from a long time ago, and the smooth texture makes it comfortable to wear.

The GORE-TEX seam tape on the seams is not only carefully crimped, but it is also very thin and thin at less than 15mm wide (photo below), and has a rough seam, and has a minimal impact on comfort, and is also extremely small, making it an impressive quality that pursues comfort as a clothing item.

Very thin and thin (13mm) seam sealing does not interfere with breathability and minimizes weight.

Weather resistance and breathability: Reliable waterproof and windproof, sufficient breathability keeps you dry

Not only is it comfortable to wear, but everyone is naturally concerned about the waterproof performance of rainwear as a basis. GORE-TEX PACLITE® PLUS, a waterproof and breathable fabric, is basically a two-layer structure of the outer fabric (using highly durable nylon), a membrane, and a special coating (0.5 layers) on the back, making it the thinnest and lightest structure among the GORE-TEX lineup. However, just like standard GORE-TEX products, it has passed strict storm tests and meets high waterproof standards, so its waterproof and windproof properties are proven to be sufficient to withstand strict mountain climbs.

is explained in detail on this page , which I previously interviewed GORE-TEX

Even during the heavy rain on the field, the rain was thoroughly shut out.

I actually tried wearing it on a trail in May when it rained, and as expected it was waterproof and windproof. There are two main reasons for its strength against rain.

Of course, the fabric is excellent. Not only does there appear to be no sign of the falling rain penetrating through the fabric, but the water droplets that have fallen on the fabric also fall in tatters, and this will last for a relatively long time even in the rain (photo below). That means it's also excellent water repellent. Currently, the shift to PFC-free materials is progressing worldwide, but water-repellent processing is no exception. The new PFC-free water-repellent rain jackets do not use organic fluorine compounds (as of 2024 only) but still have a slightly lower performance. this PAC MIND JACKET has a very high water-repellent performance, perhaps because it has adopted the traditional water-repellent treatment (although it is by no means possible to say it out loud).

During the test, it maintained high water repellency for a long time.

Another major factor is that the clothing itself is structured to ensure that the rain is fully intrusive in every detail.

For example, even if you try to make a hood, there is a long foamed brim on the high collar that covers the chin, and a stretchy flap on the forehead inside the hood (photo below).

As I will explain later, the unique stretch fabric that is placed on the back of the head does not require adjustment and always maintains a perfect fit, preventing rain around the face, ensuring a comfortable fit and wide vision (see the video below).

Additionally, the cuffs are made of waterproof stretch material and Velcro, providing excellent sealing and a comfortable fit. Although the details are small, the velcro on these sleeves is thinner and more durable than the average, and is made of resin that is less likely to lose its shape, reflecting the attitude of pursuing functionality and comfort as much as possible, even in small parts (photo below).

GORE-TEX stretch material is applied to the underside of the sleeves to provide a comfortable fit.

Breathability is the result (even if there is underarm ventilation, it is even more perfect)

As for breathability (resistant to stuffiness), it seems to be quite decent, as you would expect from the impression you get extremely stuffy. Just like with a standard waterproof and breathable jacket, the inside will not get sweaty if it is not sweating, but as your activity level increases, such as climbing, you will inevitably develop sweat inside the clothes. In the first place, due to the characteristics of GORE-TEX membranes, we are not very good at this time of year when temperature and humidity differences between inside and outside the clothing are small. However, the fabric itself is thin and easy to release heat, so in this respect it is less likely to get stuffy.

It can be used as a windshell if you are not sweating easily.

However, although the breathability is not bad, it is a bit disappointing that there is no ventilation under the armpits. In my own experience, the difficulty of clothing becoming stuffy makes a much bigger difference in whether or not there is ventilation than the difference in performance of the fabric. This jacket has mesh linings on the left and right hand pockets, which can promote ventilation to some extent, but that is still not enough. Of course, ventilation also creates a trade-off between slightly more weight and stiffness, so I'm sure it was the result of careful consideration, but in terms of less stuffiness, there is no doubt that ventilation would be an absolute advantage.

Functionality: Unique and detailed design with front zipper, hood, cuffs, pockets and packable design

When you look at the details of this clothing, the more you look at it, the more you will notice its carefully calculated and well-made quality.

High quality front zipper

The front zipper uses a lightweight, durable, waterproof Vislon type, which is much smoother and easier to use than the waterproof zippers of regular rainwear, and I really like it (photo below).

The Vislon zipper is lightweight, highly durable, and smooth to operate, making it a more high-end waterproof zipper.

A multi-functional pocket with ample storage capacity

The pockets have two waterproof zippered hand pockets on both sides, and an inner mesh zipper pocket on the back of the left. The left and right hand pockets are large enough to block the rain from entering, and the pockets have a mesh lining, so if you leave them open, you can also ventilate them (photo below).

The pockets are mesh lining, so if you feel like your clothes are getting stuffy, it's a good idea to open the zipper on your pocket.

There is an inner mesh pocket on the left side, and the pocket is packable so you can put it in by rolling it upside down and packing it in. (photo below).

The mesh security pocket on the left lining is packable, allowing you to roll it up and store it when turned over.

Hood that provides an exquisite fit without adjustment

And the hood mentioned above is one of the most unique and functional parts of this jacket.

Normally, the back of the head is manually adjusted using a drawcord or velcro, but this model only has a circular stretch material placed on it (of course, no water will enter). However, this stretch is quite good, and just putting it on makes it fit perfectly perfectly. Even when you move your neck, it naturally follows you by stretching and contracting, so it doesn't interfere with your vision, and this comfort is a sight that is glaring at your eyes. What's more, it's compatible with helmets (just a bit) so it's easy to use for a variety of activities (video below).

Only one thing is that this stretch material is slower from wet to dry than the entire fabric, and only this one is wet and has a slightly unpleasant time. That's a flaw.

The hem is made of stretch material to prevent water from flooding and cold air from below. The back is slightly longer, making it difficult to slip up while you are still in motion, and it always fits naturally to your waist (photo below).

Sleeves are circumference made of stretch material. The length is slightly longer towards the back, making it difficult for your butt to turn around while you move.

Check out other rain jackets too

the PAC MIND JACKETs we've seen so far , Montura's rainwear lineup offers an interesting lineup that suits the seasons, scenes and activities. This time, I was able to try out other models at the same time, so I will write about my impressions of how each model is different and what kind of scene it suits.

"TRIBUTE JACKET" lightweight, robust, highly breathable "TRIBUTE JACKET" that can be used in light and fast winter mountains.

the TRIBUTE JACKET is just as lightweight as it is, but if you look closely, you will see that it is a jacket developed for hard activities, including harsh terrain and cold climates, such as tough mountain climbing, alpine climbing, and winter skiing.

Wearing size M (176cm, 62kg)

The fabric is made of highly durable nylon material and uses GORE-TEX Active, a three-layer structure that is so thin and lightweight that you wouldn't expect from a three-layer structure, but it is flexible and smooth, and the finest comfort and durability, and most importantly, it is extremely breathable. The length is the longest of this time, and the range is not too slim, and it is designed to be worn as a winter outerwear so that there is room for a while even wearing a middle-aged one.

There is a two-way vislon zipper in the center (top left of the bottom photo), and a ventilation is placed under the armpit (top right of the bottom photo), which can promote air circulation to the fullest even during active activities that are sweating a lot throughout the year. Of course, it was the most breathable (ventilating) of all I've worn this time, and it was not so much stuffy.

The hood that fits the helmet also has a wide range of waterproof stretch fabric and also comes with drawstrings, making it one step further than the pack mind (bottom left of the photo below). In addition, the two zip pockets on the left and right have gussets, allowing you to store larger items such as ski stickers (bottom right of the photo below).

By the way, this model is also packable and can be rolled up into an inner mesh pocket and stored. Although ultra-lightweight, TRIBUTE JACKET ensures reliable protection and high breathability, providing comfort and best protection not only for hard traversing and variation routes throughout the year, but also for even harsher situations such as snowy mountains and BC skis, making it the most effective.

"DANUBIO G JACKET" is super comfortable, whether worn outdoors or everyday use.

The DANUBIO G JACKET has a simple and calm coloring that sets it apart from other jackets, making it a seamless and easy-to-use model from the city to the mountain hut to the field. However, the materials used are GORE-TEX Active, which is lightweight and highly breathable, and it is a high-end, authentic high-end jacket that is so functional that you'll get injured when you lick it.

Wearing size M (176cm, 62kg)

Although it generally has a slim silhouette, the jacket is looser and oversized compared to the other two. The hood is made with an orthodox velcro and a tight elastic band, not stretchy fabric (top left of the photo below). The pockets are the left and right hand pockets (bottom left of the bottom photo) and the other security pockets are inside, and they are not packable like the other two models (top right of the bottom photo). The sleeves and hem are not aimed at extremely lightweight, but rather focused on good balance (bottom right of the photo below). Other features include the overall calm situation and the considerations can be seen everywhere to make it easy to wear.

However, the excellent fabric material combines high level of lightness, protection and breathability, and the basic comfort and ease of movement are still intact, making it perfect for hiking. In that sense, this can be said to be one of the three items this time that can be worn in a wide range of situations.

Summary: All models are excellent in terms of comfort and ease of movement. Choose according to the scene and purpose

PAC MIND JACKET uses materials that offer a high level of elements necessary for mountain climbing rainwear, such as lightness, compactness, waterproof and breathable, and comfort, and is tailored with a skillful pattern that takes into consideration style, comfort, and ease of movement, and by delving into details the smart features that take into consideration the ease of use while taking action, it shows a high level of perfection that is unpleasant as a waterproof jacket. It's a shame if the only thing left (considering the humid Japan) had underarm ventilation, it could have been able to bring it out for a wider range of activities throughout the year, but it also has disadvantages such as an increase in weight, so it's not a complete one.

In any case, rain gear that is so well-made is sure to provide more than a certain level of comfort and convenience, no matter what kind of activity it is.

For the other two items, Montura, which pursues absolute comfort, is sure to provide a comfortable fit and ease of movement, and each one is optimized for more harder activities and multiple situations, so it's not a question of which one is best, but rather a model that fits your needs the best.

In any case, it is not only recommended for all enthusiasts who want to seriously enjoy the outdoors, but in a sense, it can be said that this is a piece that should be purchased in 2024 as a "one of the most reachable points of rainwear."

Details and purchase of "MONTURA PAC MIND JACKET"

For information on the latest models' arrival information and product details, please check the official online store