Fjallraven Keb G1000 men’s hiking jacket
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Cost
★★★☆☆
Performance
★★★☆☆
Overall
★★★☆☆
Overall ★★★☆☆
Verdict: A great looking jacket, that straddles a few different categories - and comes at a price!
The Keb Jacket by Fjallraven stands out as an unconventional softshell, relying on Fjallraven's Greenland Wax to toggle between weatherproofing and breathability – and we’re still somewhat divided by it!
By waxing the jacket, it gains weather resistance suitable for winter, sacrificing some breathability. Conversely, washing restores breathability, ideal for summer wear. Positioned as a trekking jacket, its durability makes it a go-to for technical activities like scrambling, climbing, or mountaineering. Despite weighing 700g and lacking lightness, its design emphasises durability.
Fit-wise, available for both genders, the Keb Jacket proves its worth with its unrestricted arm-raising, a testament to its well-crafted cut and comfortable fit. It's fitted yet not overly snug, offering ample shoulder room and long arms for versatility.
Fabric composition differentiates the Keb: G1000 Eco, comprising recycled polyester and organic cotton, enhances durability in high-wear areas, suitable for wax application to bolster water resistance. Conversely, the Stretch material, consisting of polyamide, polyester, and elastane, offers stretchability and breathability, primarily used in areas needing air circulation, excluding wax application. Although some areas, like the right-hand breast pocket, display minor fabric wear (bobbling), it doesn't hamper functionality.
Waxing the jacket (preferably using a hairdryer or hot water), allows for customisation based on weather conditions, with additional coatings for colder, wetter climates. Notably, the eco-friendly nature of the materials, particularly the organic cotton and recycled polyester, contributes to its environmental appeal, aligning with long-term investments.
The giant hood, made of G1000 fabric, offers ample protection against rain and wind. While its size proves beneficial in adverse conditions, its stiffness occasionally causes flapping in strong winds. Nonetheless, it doubles as a wind barrier around the neck on windy days, despite some difficulty in volume reduction due to stiffness.
Additional features like elevated chest pockets, ideal for on-the-go essentials, showcase practicality, though they might not suit hand placement. Side zips provide airflow during warm weather, complementing the waxed weatherproofing.
In summary, the Keb Jacket is a versatile, durable, and weather-adaptable garment, best suited for those seeking a long-lasting investment. Despite its weight or price potentially dissuading some, its longevity and adaptability warrant the initial investment, making it a justifiable choice for outdoor enthusiasts if you figure out when to use it.
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