Review of the Ridgeline Monsoon ll jacket.
Tests
• Warmth
• Toughness
• Sound
• Waterproofing
• functionality
First of all we examined the jacket to see how well it is constructed and we have to say straight from the start it gave the feeling of being bomb proof. It feels thicker than it really is and was already giving us the feeling that this was going to be a rugged jacket that will stand the test of time. Something which is a must for any jacket you need to trust in extreme conditions.
Ridgeline state that they have concentrated on the big four. Warmth, Waterproofing, Durability and Functionality. With a host of features this jacket had its work cut out to live up to the hype and we quickly put it to the test.
Setting off in the snowy conditions the jacket was already feeling warm and comfortable. The adjustable/removable hood gives excellent protection from the elements. The monsoon jacket is a smock (meaning it goes over the head to put it on) and has a zipper to do up the top 1/3 rd of the jacket. This zipper is covered by a very substantial storm flap which buttons into place at three points. The collar comes up all the way to your chin providing brilliant protection and really helps to keep the warmth in and the cold and wet out. The sleeves have double cuffs to help keep the weather out and do a very good job. There are four pockets on the jacket. Two low side pockets and one right chest pocket which have waterproof zips and one left breast cargo pocket which is roomy and waterproof and fastened with two metal studs. The Monsoon Jacket is made with Ridgelines own waterproof/breathable RL-Tex 3 layer shell. Unlike ‘technical jackets’ there is no crisp packet feel to this jacket and it is extremely quiet, perfect when stalking or watching wildlife.
As the test continued the weather became stormier with very heavy rain and high winds. The jacket remained rock solid and was completely at home in the harsh conditions. It was warm and comfortable although as there is no DWR finish to this jacket the outer surface had ‘wetted out’ and the jacket had become slightly heavier, although this was hardly noticeable. With the sculptured front and rear the Monsoon jacket provides even more protection and helps keep you that little more comfortable, especially in the cold and wet.
Summary
Over the test period with 40hrs in some extremely harsh conditions the Ridgeline Monsoon proved to be an outstanding jacket. In terms of comfort, waterproofness and warmth it is simply excellent. We would recommend this jacket to anyone who enjoys bushcraft and spends long periods outdoors.
Waterproofness 10/10
Warmth 10/10
Durability 10/10
Functionality 10/10
For the geek in us:
Features:
• Waterproof/breathable and abrasion resistant seam sealed RL-TEX™ three layer shell
• Adjustable waist clinch
• A big beefy waterproof chest pocket and roomy chest patch pocket
• A generous detachable hood system
• Adjustable double cuff system with self-sealing outer cuffs and internal neoprene cuffs to keep the water out and the warmth in
