Living in a northern climate, I typically get to test a lot of the winter gear here on the Loadout Room. Which has its pros and cons. On the plus side, I get to use some of the latest and greatest outerwear in a climate they’re designed for. Whether it’s skiing, snowshoeing or hunting, I enjoy testing and evaluating new winter gear. On the negative side of living up north is the snow blowing, shoveling, driving in snow and pulling people out of the ditch. Plus, owning a Siberian Husky that pretends she has to pee just so she can play in a blizzard gets old. Aside from the snowfall, we typically see temperatures well into the negative numbers this time of year. So having an insulated waterproof jacket for these activities is a must. And the Mammut Runbold HS Thermo is a great option.
Mammut may not be the largest outerwear company but it is by far one of the oldest. Founded in 1862 (no, that’s not a typo) this 155 year old Swiss company got its start making climbing ropes. Although Mammut still produces some of the worlds finest climbing ropes, they also design top-tier clothing, sleeping bags, footwear and accessories. Through my experience with several Mammut products, I can tell you that they are a no-compromise, function-first, pure alpine manufacturer. Maybe it’s the Swiss perfection mindset or superior quality control, whatever the reason, I’ve experienced a zero failure rate with Mammut products.
Typically, I adhere to the layer plus shell method when preparing for strenuous outdoor activities in the winter. Allowing me to adjust for both exertion level and changing environmental conditions. The Runbold HS Thermo however, is an insulated shell, and a departure from what I’m used to. With a 100% waterproof breathable DRYtech exterior, this jacket sheds the elements like my Nordwand GoreTex Pro ski shell. Additionally, the Runbold features OTI, or Optimized Thermal Insulation. A combination of 100 g/m² synthetic fiber in the body of the jacket and 80 g/m² synthetic fiber in the arms. Providing just the right amount of warmth for a variety of sports and activities.
Setting Mammut apart from the competition is their laser focused attention to detail. The quality of the stitching, materials, thoughtfulness and ergonomics is why I am a long-term Mammut customer. One of my biggest complaints from other manufacturers are sleeves that ride up during activity. Jackets that only fit when standing still are clearly fashion based rather than activity based. Mammut jackets, pants and gloves feature construction with articulation built-in to the design. Pre bent elbows along with extra sleeve length on the Runbold ensure your wrists are covered when extending your arms. Additionally, Mammut uses a Raglan sleeve design to avoid pressure from seams that may end up under a backpack.
Waterproof zippers secure two fleece lined hand pockets on the front of the Runbold along with a single chest pocket. Inside the chest pocket, you’ll find a multimedia cable outlet. Allowing the wearer to route a headphone cable to a phone or iPod safely resting within the jacket. Another nice feature is the waterproof Aquaguard main zipper which prevents moisture seepage in very wet environments. Something I’ve too often experienced with inferior products. Finally, an adjustable hem and velcro cuffs help defend against any unwanted drafts.
Runbold HS Thermo specifications courtesy of mammut.com
- Windproof, waterproof 2-layer Mammut DRYtechnology Performance material with 20,000 mm water column and 20,000 g/m²/24h water vapor permeability
- Robust ripstop outer material
- Filled with 100 g/m² synthetic fiber on body and 80 g/m² synthetic fiber on arms
- Optimum 3-point adjustment on hood
- Waterproof Aquaguard front zipper
- 2 side pockets with zipper
- 1 chest zipper pocket
- Multimedia cable outlet on inside
- Raglan sleeves to avoid pressure points around the shoulders
- Pre-shaped elbows
- Velcro cuffs
- Adjustable hem
- MSRP $325
Final thoughts: While the Runbold HS Thermo Hooded Jacket has a solid foothold in my closet, I admit that it probably won’t replace my Nordwand Pro Jacket for skiing. Lack of a powder skirt is the main reason for this. Whether you’re snowshoeing, hiking or participating in anything else where a waterproof insulated jacket would be needed, the Runbold HS Thermo is a fantastic option. Mammut jackets not only function well, they look great too. Available in 3 different colors, the Mammut Runbold maintains a classic uncluttered look, suitable for both sports or leisure wear. Finally, Mammut stands behind their products with a solid warranty and repair policy offering piece of mind for the long haul. If you’re a winter sports person, it’s time to take a look at how Mammut can outfit you on your next adventure.
feature image courtesy of mammut.com
