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First thought: this isn’t going to fit. When the Talus comes out of the packet it feels like it’s going to be way too small – it turns out this is testament to how well it packs down. Pull it on and it quickly starts to feel like getting into your favourite sleeping bag – top-half only, of course.
Three Things To Know
- Warm, Weather‑Ready Insulation - Packed with 60 gsm PrimaLoft® Gold synthetic fill that delivers excellent warmth even when damp - great for UK cold conditions
- Comfortable and mobile - Features stretch‑fleece side panels and articulated sleeves for better movement and comfort on hikes or everyday wear
- Practical, Outdoor‑Friendly Design - Water‑resistant and windproof fabric with a fixed hood, elasticated cuffs and shock cord adjustment at the hem and hood
What They Say:
“The Talus Jacket uses Primaloft Gold insulation for warmth, and stretchy fleece softshell side panels for increased ease of movement, making it a great core item for all year round use.”
What We Say:
There’s something about Keela’s products that tells you that they’re made by people who use them. Is it the no-fuss performance design that eschews urban sympathies for practical feature? Maybe. Whatever it is, it makes for products that do what you need them to when you’re out in the field. We put their men’s Talus jacket through its paces on a variety of activities, and found it a hard-working layer that frees you up to get on with enjoy your activity.
Waterproofing
Warmth and Insulation
Quality and Materials
Durability and Care
Check availability at Outdoor Action.
When compared to more traditional down jackets, there are three main points of difference. Firstly, as noted above, the size – unlike the ‘puffer jacket’ ballooning you get with some down jackets, the Primaloft Gold insulation makes for much more snug fit. As well as looking sleeker, this makes it feel much more suited to actually being active in the outdoors, rather than just looking ready for it.
Next up, when the Primaloft Gold filling gets wet, it still keeps the warmth in. And thirdly, it’s very warm! Even out at dawn in -3ºC, my top half at least was quick toastie within 10 minutes or so of walking.
One key feature, which I’m still somewhat on the fence about, are the fleece-lined, stretchy side panels. These make for a great fit and allow the jacket to move with you as you go about your activities – the jacket stayed put while I used my arms to help me scramble up a slippery incline while walking through woods, and it was great to keep me warm during a spot of kayaking on a cold morning, as it meant the bottom didn’t ride up. This is particularly handy, given that the jacket is on the short side, tucking in at the waist, with no extra rear cover!
The flip side of the side panels, however, is that while the main jacket does have some water resistance, and still performs well when wet, once the rain got to the fleece, I had wet material clinging to my sides. Having said which, if you’re likely to wear a waterproof outer shell over the top in very wet weather, the fact that the Talus is so relatively lean means that the outer shell fits over it that much more comfortably.
One aspect where my mind is very firmly made up is the adjustability. On this front, the Talus excels. It was incredibly satisfying to fiddle with the hood until it was just right. The drawstring at the bottom helps keep the warmth in, as do the elasticated cuffs. In addition, having a zip pocket inside and out is convenient.
Value for Money
For the price, it’s pretty hard to fault the Talus. While Keela may not have the high street presence of some brands, that does mean that you’re not paying for a logo, but for the garment itself.
Sustainability
The Primaloft Gold insulation is made from a minimum 50% recycled plastics diverted from landfill. And as is becoming increasingly important, Keela’s products are made to last, which is the most obvious way to avoid waste.
Should You Buy It?
If you’re looking for a high-performing jacket to use as part of a layered approach to outdoor activity – and you don’t want to spend a fortune – you may just have found your new favourite piece of clothing.
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