Inov-8 Performance Hybrid £175
“Clever design and cutting-edge materials”
This mid layer ticks all of the boxes. It’s soft and cosy, with excellent warmth, good breathability, faultless comfort, and a clever design using cutting-edge materials.
In some ways, it could be described as a warmer, thicker version of the Jack Wolfskin Prelight Alpha – with both jackets displaying a soft shell-like design, combining a weatherresistant Pertex Quantum Air shell with internal insulation.
In the inov-8 version, the insulation is PrimaLoft Active Evolve (58% recycled polyester, 42% polyester) – a highlypermeable, mesh-like fabric with rows of fleecy tufts. The body-mapped design places the insulation around the chest, stomach, head, neck, shoulders, upper arms and back (“exactly the right places”, says inov-8), while stretchy panels bring comfort, manoeuvrability and flex to other parts of the jacket.
The peaked hood is particularly impressive – the warmest on test – and other nifty features include the ability to stash the jacket in its own pocket, as well as thumb loops and two well-designed, twinlayered pockets.
IF WE’RE BEING FUSSY
At £175 it’s slightly overpriced, perhaps by £20-40. It’s on the heavier end of our spectrum (third heaviest in this roundup) and the slightly athletic cut might not suit all body shapes (try before you buy, if you can). It may prove too warm for higher intensity activities, or milder conditions.
■ MEN’S SIZES XS-XL ■ WOMEN’S SIZES 6-16 ■ WEIGHT 339g (men’s
medium)
Verdict
A well-designed, body-mapped mid layer with PrimaLoft Active Evolve insulation – but it’s pricey and may be too warm for some activities.