BCS head instructor Graham Melloy Reviews the Abisko Hybrid Jacket, along with the Abisko Tarp.

ABISKO HYBRID JACKET

So with the winter passed but the weather still being fairly unpredictable I have been using a hybrid jacket that covers a multitude of arenas and when combined with other layers it is a diamond item. I am talking about the Abisko Hybrid Jacket…. Light, simple design, small pack down size and great against cold winds. It is constructed from G-1000 Lite with fast drying MT on the shoulders and hood. Ventilation is through a rear yolk along with a fixed hood.

I have been using the jacket on a regular basis and on its own it is great for smaller treks and activities giving plenty of ventilation. The lightness of the material should not put you off as it is very hardwearing. I have combined it with the Keb Loft jacket whilst out on the coast and I have been very warm to the point i have been too warm!

This jacket will be great in the summer combined with the Abisko Trek Lite trousers and some of the High Coast range. From a survival point of view it is a very good light shell type jacket which will give protection from the elements and is very quick drying.

So this garment is going to be put to the test this year and it will definitely be in my bag for Africa next year.

ABISKO TARP

I have been using a Fjallraven 3m x 3m Tarp now for just over a year and I must say that I am very impressed. Having used tarps or shelter sheets/Basha’s for 3 decades now this has to be up there as one of the best i have used. I have used it in all 4 seasons with comfort combined with a gore-tex bivi bag and sleeping mat.

The tarp is made of the same material that the Fjallraven tent range is manufactured in which is the strong 40 D TripleRip Nylon. It has 6 x 2mm Dyneema guylines as well as several other attachment loops. The tarp can be used on its own or strung up above a tent as a large vestibule/work area.

Weighing in at only 500g the tarp stuffs in to its own pocket which is located on one corner which is a bonus. Although it is expensive it is a no nonsense piece of kit.