Montane Podium Pull-on
The Montane Podium is an incredibly light waterproof jacket, designed for “mountain trail running” – and serious racers at that, with a name like Podium.
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First impressions
Not only is it so superlight you barely notice you’re wearing it, but it’s also slightly see-though, which only adds to the feeling that you are wearing a ghost jacket. The material is surprisingly durable for something so light, but you wouldn’t want to abrade it on anything rough like rocks or gorse bushes. The jacket is seriously impressive, but probably an overkill for most. It definitely feels like it’s pitched at runners on a race that demands an emergency waterproof on the kit list, but you’re not expecting to wear it all day.
How waterproof is the Montane Podium Jacket?
This jacket was tested in short bursts of hard rain during trail runs. It beaded nicely and kept me dry. The hydrostatic head rating is 15,000 – which is the second lowest in this test, but still plenty enough to be considered waterproof. If you’re stuck in a prolonged downpour then you might get wet.
How breathable?
This jacket is incredibly breathable for a waterproof. When I was running it didn’t feel like I was wearing a waterproof outer layer at all. There are no vents but the fabric lets air flow through it so well that I’m surprised the MTVR is only rated 15,000. It feels much more breathable than other jackets in this test with higher ratings.
Fit and design features
The hood has a close (elasticated) fit around the face and moved well with my head as I turned. There is no way to adjust the fit, but the peak is wired. There are no pockets and the jacket is a smock, so can only be pulled on over the head.
The main zip is stiff and sturdy, backed up by an internal storm flap. The cuffs and waist are strongly elasticated, well enough to stay in place while running. The most noticeable feature of this jacket is that it is translucent – you can see what you’re wearing underneath through it. Although it isn’t particularly noticeable from a distance, it’s quite uncanny while you’re wearing it.
Best for: Back-up for runners, especially in race conditions
Facts at a Glance: Montane Podium Pull-on
- Weight: 111g, size S
- Waterproofing: Aqua Pro Lite, HH: 15,000mm
- Breathability: 15,000g/m2/24hrs MVTR
- Vents: no
- Hood: Minimalist elasticated hood with wired peak
- Fabric: 100% polyester knit
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Also consider...
Haglöfs LIM GTX Jacket
RRP £230
Buy for women from Haglöfs (£230 £161)
Buy for men from Haglöfs (£230 £161)
More robust and durable than the Montane Podium above, the Haglöfs LIM GTX Jacket is also more versatile. Despite the lack of under-arm vents, it's light and breathable enough for runners. With some features that the Podium doesn't have (for example, pockets) it will also serve hikers well as an emergency back-up when the weather turns – but it's also sufficiently waterproof to protect you for fairly long spells in the rain, thanks to the Gore-Tex Paclite fabric. Interested? then find out more in our full-length review.
