One of Montane’s range of shell jackets, The Pac Plus has been a popular option for hikers and trekkers since its launch in 2018. Comfort-wise, there’s lots to enjoy here, from the carefully designed front zip and stiffening and protective storm flap, through to the excellent hood that will protect you from whatever the elements throw at you.

Active Mountain: Designed to be low bulk and to fit closely to the body, or to be layered with other non-bulky garments, these garments are intended for faster-paced mountain activities.If you're taking it winter climbing then you'll just have to have realistic expectations of its relative longevity: think spring ice climbing on The Ben, or speeding along a classic snowy ridge, rather than squirming up a granite chimney in rivers of January spindrift (I'm not really up for that either). The Pac Plus XT is actually an evolution of the Montane Pac Plus jacket, which was released in 2020.

This GORE-TEX jacket makes only a few a claims, which we’ll look at soon, and none of them are exagerated. Made from 100% recycled Gore-Tex Paclite Plus, it’s tough and packable, whilst being fairly breathable.The women’s Montane Pac Plus XT is one of the lightest waterproof jackets that I have tried, and I had some doubts as to whether it could be classed as an all-season waterproof; but having had it on extended test all through the winter season, I’m happy to report that it is more than substantial and waterproof enough for the job. First clean out any detergent and conditioner residue from the machine dispenser and then add the required amount of Tech Wash and away you go.

I've used the hood with a helmet when winter mountaineering, so I'd concede it will just about do for an occasional such day, but if you're regularly climbing in the Pac Plus XT I suspect it'd get annoying. Designed for mountain walking and long-distance trekking alike, the Pac Plus Jacket employs waterproof GORE-TEX Paclite Plus technology, upgraded with a more comfortable dry-touch backer. Washing can be done in a machine according to the manufacturers care guidelines (on the internal label). Two mesh lined hand pockets that are capable of storing a map take care of both storage and ventilation.Incredibly packable and lightweight, GORE-TEX PACLITE® provides durable waterproof and windproof protection while keeping weight to a minimum. In a nod to its potential use in winter it's a roomy jacket, and in my standard size Large there's space to fit it over several warm layers without feeling restricted.