What is the Element Stretch Jacket?
If you're out in all weathers but aren't a fan of traditional waterproof jackets, the Element Stretch may just be the jacket for you! Made using a super stretchy Aqua Pro fabric and featuring Montane's articulated cut, the Element is about as comfortable as it gets whilst still providing 100% waterproof protection. It's ideal for mountain walking, trekking, climbing and more.
What is it made of?
The Element is made using Montane's Aqua Pro Stretch 3-layer construction; this means you've got a soft inner fabric next to skin, a tough outer fabric which deals with the majority of abuse on the outside and a waterproof membrane sandwiched in between. Typically waterproof jackets aren't noticably stretchy, however the Element features the stretchiness of a softshell with the protection of a hardshell — win win. To top it off, Montane use micro-taped seams throughout the jacket to ensure the highest levels of breathability and minimum weight.
What are the features?
Starting at the top, you've got a fully adjustable hood which will comfortably fit a helmet underneath and can be rolled away when not in use, a full length YKK front zip with an internal storm flap for added protection, two hand pockets which will fit a folded map inside and are placed high enough to still be usable when wearing a rucksack or climbing harness, an adjustable hem to seal out the foul weather and adjustable cuffs. You've got everything you need and nothing you don't.
How does it fit?
The Element features a cut which allows you to stick additional layers underneath if needs be, but also doesn't feel big and baggy when worn over just a baselayer. The stretchy fabric coupled with articulated arms ensures you're never left feeling restricted.
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Stretchy fabrics
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Articulated fit
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Two hand pockets
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Micro-taped seams
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Helmet compatible hood
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Wired peak
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Adjustable hem & cuffs
Care and maintenance
To keep your outdoor clothing and equipment in tip top condition and performing to its maximum we recommend the use of Nikwax products. We have been using Nikwax products since day one (26th March 1986) and have found them to be totally reliable, dependable and effective. Today’s Nikwax treatments contain environmentally friendly elastic water-repellent polymers that bond to fabric fibres, leaving the spaces between open and breathable. These stretchy polymers are able to stretch and move with the fabric so they stay put for longer and work better.
Nikwax treatments will not change the look or feel of the fabric and they are all water based, environmentally safe, non-flammable and contain no nasty Fluorocarbons. Nikwax products can be used to clean, re-proof and revitalise all your outdoor technical clothing and equipment.
Waterproof breathable clothing has a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish applied to the face fabric during the manufacturing process. The DWR forces water to bead up and roll off the surface therefore preventing the fabric from absorbing moisture. If the outside of your jacket is soaked in a layer of cold water, the warm damp air within can’t escape and will condense on the inside. This makes the jacket feel cold clammy and can make you think that it’s leaking. The DWR finish is not permanent and needs to be maintained and revitalised to optimise performance.
This three layer waterproof jacket should be cleaned regularly with Nikwax Tech Wash; I wash my jacket about once a month, or more often if it gets really filthy. Regular washing with Tech Wash will maintain the DWR for longer and remove salts and oils that can contaminate the fabric, and it will keep your lovely jacket clean and smelling fresh. Washing can be done in a machine according to the manufacturers care guidelines (on the internal label). 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. Hand washing is also suitable but be sure to rinse the garment well.
When you notice that rain/water is no longer beading up and rolling off it’s time to re-proof. Nikwax TX Direct will re-instate a long lasting DWR to completely rejuvenate your jacket. Re-proofing can also be done in the machine once a garment has been washed. Just add the TX-Direct and use the same programme you used for washing. You can also use the spray-on product on a damp garment that has just been washed.
You wouldn’t buy a Ferrari and never have it serviced, so make sure you regularly wash and re-proof your quality kit.