As with most Ultras, the non-negotiable kit requirements always demand a ‘packable’ waterproof jacket with taped seams with a minimum of 10,000mm Hydrostatic head waterproof rating (I’m still not sure what this is, but it’s a pretty big number!). Enter the Phase Lite Jacket from Montane….at only 300g it’s definitely packable, and with 28,000mm Hydrostatic head waterproof rating it’s got the waterproof credentials needed to satisfy even the strictest race director…I also LOVE the stone blue colour!
On my first training run with the Phase Lite I noticed that it immediately dealt well with the wet and windy conditions. Spring time here in the UK brings a multitude of seasons so I was happy that it kept me dry and warm on a particularly cold and gusty day. I thought the lightweight material wouldn’t necessarily give much protection so I was pleasantly surprised. What I particularly like about the Montane jacket is the grey smooth inner fabric, it’s genuinely one of the softest lightweight materials I’ve felt on a jacket. The trim fit meant I also had room for a mid-layer underneath.
Having a handy roll-away hood kept my face from being hit full force by the wind and I could tighten it as I needed to with its 3-point ‘quick release’ system. I could do this as I was running and loosen it again when I didn’t need it. I felt the hood peak did its job keeping the rain off my face, and the drawstring on the back helped keep it nice and snug.
Once again I found that on a cold windy day I was able to adjust the jacket hem with the drawcord and tighten the jacket around the wrists. It was easy to adjust with the velcro fastenings and untighten them when I needed to access my watch.
I found the large pockets were perfect for taking the usual gear (phone, keys and gels) with me.
When I got too hot on another run it was a breeze whip it off and tie it around my waist. There are no vents built in but I found it to be really breathable, unlike some cheap running jackets I’ve used in the past.
As it’s an active adventure-led Jacket I would definitely say it gave me a higher level of movement, and I liked that I could adjust the hem to make the jacket looser and allow more breathing space as I settled into a run. It kept me dry and warm many times on the trails, whilst being flexibile. Perhaps having an underarm vent would be an extra bonus plus some reflective elements, as even in the daytime during Spring in amongst the forested areas it can get quite dark.
Overall, what a great nimble jacket with the waterproofing and wind protection needed as an ultra runner.
Montane
Men’s Phase Lite Waterproof Jacket
Stone Blue
£325.00
