What is the Atomic Jacket?
The legendary Atomic Jacket is a stunning jacket for the price. Featuring a Pertex Shield membrane, an updated fit, a fully adjustable hood and ventilating pit-zips, it's the ideal piece for walking, trekking, backpacking, travelling, the list goes on!
What is it made from?
Starting from the outside, the Atomic features a durable 40D nylon outer fabric which protects the membrane (and you) from rucksack straps, abrasion and general wear and tear. This outer fabric is then coated in a durable water repellent coating to allow water to bead off the surface, increasing breathability. Underneath this, you get a fully waterproof, windproof and breathable Pertex Shield membrane which does most of the hard work against questionable weather conditions. Finally, the inner fabric is a Dry Touch backer. This backer doesn't technically offer any performance benefits, however it feels lovely and soft next to skin opposed to the inner fabrics of old which felt a little like wet dishcloths.
What are the features?
Features wise, you get a fully adjustable roll-away hood with a wired peak, a nice high collar when the hood is rolled away, pit zips to dump large amounts of heat when working hard, two mesh-lined hand pockets which will also fit most maps, adjustable cuffs, an adjustable hem and reflective details. Essentially, you get every feature you could possibly wish for during walking, trekking and travel use.
How does it fit?
The Atomic has always had a great fit, but for this year it has been refined even further. The length is nice and long in the body and arms, and the overall fit isn't slim, nor is it baggy, it sits perfectly in the middle. You can easily fit a few insulated layers underneath, however it feels brilliant with just a baselayer too.
Where does it fit in the layering system?
It's designed as an outer layer which is where it will be used 90% of the time. You can stick a synthetically insulated jacket over the top when you stop for lunch to offer additional warmth, but the Atomic works best as the layer on the outside of your layering system.
Summary
For the walker, trekker, traveller or commuter, the Atomic jacket is all you'll ever need! Sitting around the £100 mark, the Atomic looks and feels twice its price and will perform reliably and effectively for years.
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Pertex Shield membrane
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Water and windproof
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Pit zips to ventilate
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Soft, comfortable inner fabric
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Two hand pockets
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Fully adjustable hood