Review: Keela Women’s Solo Jacket
OUR VERDICT
A warm and practical coat from a sustainable company that doesn’t cost the earth.
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| RRP | £149.95 |
| Weight | 680g |
| Features | 133gsm PrimaLoft Gold, Flylite Cordura durable shell, water-resistant/windproof, map-compatible inner pocket, cord adjustment at hem and hood |
Pros
- Packs away small in your backpack
- Sustainable brand based in Scotland
- Very warm yet compact
- Water resistant
Cons
- Hood is fixed and cannot be removed or packed away
- Sizing on smaller side; I would recommend buying a size up particularly if you intend to layer up underneath on colder days
WHAT I’M LOOKING FOR
I am looking for a warm versatile coat for hiking but also can be thrown on when running errands or taking the dog out for a walk! Living in North Cumbria I love hiking in the Pennines and the Lake District.
For hiking, my go-to item is an insulated coat that provides warmth whilst being light, durable and easy to strip off and pack away when needed.
I feel the cold easily so I am looking for a nice warm coat; however most of the insulated coats I have used in the past have been really big and bulky. I am looking for something that both keeps me warm yet offers the practicality of a lighter more compact coat.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
The coat arrived in 100% recyclable packaging which was impressive. Keela provide clothing for Scottish Mountain Rescue teams, and it is clear why this is; practical, appears well made and comfortable although a little on the snug side for what would be my usual size.
The coat has a nice aesthetic and it feels equally at home on the hillside as well as the school pick up!
THE TEST
The coat was tested hiking in the Lake District as well as dog walking and taking the children on a day trip to Whinlatter forest.
When hiking I set off not needing a coat and the jacket packed away in my small backpack well. As we got higher and more exposed we stopped for a picnic which served the perfect opportunity to put on my jacket. Given this is a warmer time of year I didn’t need many layers underneath however the jacket felt snug in its fit; I do worry that in the height of winter I may need a larger size to squeeze over the layers I would normally wear. This aside the coat certainly did the trick. I was warm and comfortable in no time. Once I got moving again I was able to pack the jacket away neatly in my backpack when not needed.
the coat was comfortable to wear and not overly restrictive despite being warm
On a dog walk and equally when on a day trip with the children the coat was comfortable to wear and not overly restrictive despite being warm. I do wonder if it might benefit from a hood that could pack away. There were plenty of zipped pockets which came in handy for carrying snacks, maps and dog treats!
WHO IS THIS ITEM FOR?
Anyone who wants a warm and comfortable coat ideal for hiking yet not looking out of place in your local pub! The Keela website describes the Solo as ‘designed to keep you warm on crisp, icy treks. Warm, lightweight and compressible, it’s the perfect mid or outer layer for your next adventure’. I could not agree more!
WHAT STANDS OUT?
Sustainability credentials
Keela pride themselves on being an ethical and sustainable company. They were the first Scottish clothing manufacturer to sign up to the Sustainable Clothing Action Plan (SCAP). They also offer a clothing hospital to extend the life of your kit by repairing anything from a torn seam to a bust zip. It’s important to me to invest in a company who appreciate the importance of this.
Packable and stashable
The lightweight filling means the coat can be squashed down – perfect for shoving in a bag when needed. The coat bounces back to life without any creases.
Water-resistance
The shell of the coat offers water resistance, and if the coat gets wet then the Primaloft insulation keeps working even when wet – unlike down.
Lightweight Insulation
Primaloft Gold insulation provides high level of warmth without having to carry around lots of extra weight.
Large Pockets
Handy large pockets are super useful for outdoor activities.
VALUE FOR MONEY
The Solo jacket is in my opinion, extremely good value for money. I have owned many similar coats over the years that offer same level of warmth but cost double. This is my new go-to coat at a fraction of the cost and equally good looking!
BASE BOTTOM LINE
For days out in the great outdoors this is a must buy; perfect for hiking, walking and exploring. The colour and style of the Solo means it also looks good for the school pick up, dog walking and even the pub! The Solo jacket has already replaced other down coats I own for walking and hiking.
Due to the innovative fabrics and insulation the Solo provides warmth, comfort and practicality to allow it pack up neatly in a small bag. Due to these qualities the Solo will be many peoples go-to coat when exploring the great outdoors; ideal for mountain sports yet also dog walking! This is a great all round coat for Spring, Autumn and Winter and should be able to withstand a lot of adventures.
If the weather is forecast for a large downpour then a fully waterproof outer shell would also be required; although it is reassuring to know if you did not have this available then the insulation still provides warmth even when wet (unlike down).
There is peace of mind when buying this from a sustainable company and the Keela clothing hospital is an added bonus. The company can help mend damaged clothing which is good for the consumer and planet. Keela have many years of experience and known for providing clothes to the police, mountain rescue teams and the military – it is clear their fabrics and design are practical and warm.
What are you looking for in a layer?
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