Lowe Alpine "Triple Point Ceramic" jacket (Updated) (Lowe Alpine Flash)

Member Name: i_p_jones

Product:	Lowe Alpine Flash
Date:	04/10/00 (1033 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: See text

Disadvantages: A fixed hood would be better

I was looking for a high-quality waterproof jacket but at a reasonable price, so I chose the Triple Point Ceramic. I got it for £139 in a sale - I think this year's model has some more features, but last year's is good enough for me.

The Triple Point has a tucked-away hood, although I always leave it out so it's easier to put up. The hood has a strong peak, unlike some cheaper jackets which have a floppy peak. Being a tuck-away hood though, the chin flaps aren't that strong, and they do flap about a lot in strong wind, if the zip isn't up all the way.

The hood also has a lot of loose material at the back, so if you pull the drawcorsd tight enough (but not so tight that it's uncomfortable), the hood moves with your head when you look around, so it doesn't block your view.

The jacket also has a double storm flap on the zip to stop wind and/or water leaking in. Unlike other jackets this isn't fastened by the monster known as Velcro - a great advantage. There is also the chin guard to stop the zip scratching your chin when it's jipped up all the way.

A handy feature of this jacket is the map pocket - it's outside the main zip, but behind the storm flap, so you can safely stow your map without having to open the jacket. The pocket is big enough for probably two maps, but if you're using a map case then maybe just one.

The others pockets are fairly deep as well - I can fit my hat, gloves and camera (a small 35mm one) into them.

The sleeves are long, so if it gets a bit chilly but not warranting gloves, you can slide your hands up into the sleeve. And the sleeves are fairly loose as well, giving a lot of freedom.

For packing away, this jacket folds up quite neatly, not taking up too much space, although it took a few attempts to find the best way to fold it. It's also fairly light, compared to my old one!

Summary: