PADDLER 7
Palm Equipment Vantage Jacket https :// palmequipmenteurope . com By Dale Mears
PADDLER 7
REVIEWS
Palm Equipment Vantage Jacket https :// palmequipmenteurope . com By Dale Mears
Looking for a new paddling jacket for the colder months or to keep the wind chill off ? It ' s definitely worth checking out the Vantage Jacket from Palm Equipment . This is a pullover , half-zip , semi-dry jacket for the colder months . Great for winter paddles or to stow away in case of rain or cool wind .
The jacket is not a new product from Palm , but it has been available for a few years . It has proven to be one of the most affordable paddle jackets on the market – a non-restrictive cut which is great for paddling and plenty of movement in the shoulders and body . I definitely recommend sizing up to provide space for base layers . The Vantage has a fully adjustable waist , velcro cuffs and a well-sized hood , plenty big enough to pull over caps and beanies .
What I like is the neck , when zipped open , can be clipped away so that it doesn ' t get in the way whilst paddling . Better still , the inside of the neck has a fleecy lining . I found this sat just under my chin when paddling , but when the hood was tightened up , it pulled over the chin and mouth , keeping the wind off nicely .
The front pocket is generous for carrying phones and other items you want to keep dry and also has a full-width fleece-lined hand-warming pocket for placing your hands on a cold day . I found this pocket nice when you wanted to stop and warm up your hands . The outer of the pocket is made of fleece material . Getting your hands into this pocket is easy , but your PDF can restrict it . This is great for SUP as you can warm up your hands and fingers while on the water .
Fully taped seams mean this jacket will keep you dry and the wind off when the weather dips , but it is manageable for all-year paddling if the weather isn ' t too good . I want to clarify that it is not a dry top , and the cuffs have no seals .
The build quality is better than some rain jackets at a much better price point , RRP £ 132 , but seen online for as little as £ 99 at some retailers .
It ' s definitely one to keep the wind chill off during the shoulder seasons . I couldn ' t find any negatives with this jacket . The only thing I could pick on is the peak on the jacket ; a bit of wire to hold the shape of the peak would be nice , but that ' s it ! Price : £ 132.00