True North Solatium Mk II XALT™ Jacket

I've been waiting to purchase this jacket for some time and it hasn't disappointed. I bought it to replace a traditional rubber fisherman's raincoat which while looking good was always freezing where it touched the skin and drenched my trousers. The warm fleece lining of the Solatium is a great touch and makes the jacket good for milder rain conditions when used without underlayers. The Solatium fits fantastically--I'm a 40" chest, but the small worked well for me, even when worn over a down jacket or large jumper. I love the colour (bluey-charcoal) and the seamlessness of the main body of the jacket. Functionally it does a great job--I've worn it already in some pretty foul Scottish weather and storm force winds and it kept me dry and the wind out! The hood was large enough to fit over a flat cap or a bobble hat and can be made secure.

My only criticism would be that the pockets are set a little high, so aren't particularly comfortable to put your hands in, though they are fleece-lined. Even the Medium, which I also tried, had the pockets set too high. But I generally wear it with gloves, so dinna fash.

The jacket is amazing. Really tough, waterproof and wind proof. Fit well. The only negative point is the hood.

When I first saw this jacket I thought that’s for me. Great material and minimalist design. So when it popped up on the Black Friday deals I placed my order. When it arrived I loved the material and the clean lines. BUT when I put it on the hood drowned my head and even when it was down it was obtrusive and in my face. So after consulting my better half I sadly returned jacket. If they make another design without a hood I’ll be the first to order one.

If you use hoods - then you’ll love it but I wear hats and like some space round my neck, so the current design is not for me.