LOWE ALPINE Ecrin Top (£40)

LOWE ALPINE Ecrin Top (£40)

By John Manning

January 01 2010

TGO Rating 4 stars

The Ecrin’s Classic Micro fabric – Lowe Alpine gets an extra half-point for using the recycled variety, which performs just as well, with the same warmth-to-weight ratio and fast-drying properties, as virgin fleece – together with its minimal features, make it a good lightweight product with a relaxed cut.

The ventilation-boosting 27cm-deep zip has fabric guards at the chin to prevent chafing though it has occasionally snagged on these. The zip’s small tag makes it easier to grab when wearing gloves or mitts (I’m flummoxed as to why there seems to be a trend away from these among some other manufacturers). The Ecrin’s loose-fit sleeves roll up easily and comfortably for further ventilation and, while the 5cm-deep collar could do with being just a tad deeper to help protect the neck against chilling winds, the Ecrin is one of the better-priced models tested: comfortable, minimalist and light, lacking only a chest pocket.

Technical Spec

Category: lighter
Fabric: Polartec Classic Micro Recycled
Weight: 262g (L)
Sizes: S-XXL
Women’s version: Ecrin Top, XS-XL
Likes: weight, rollable sleeves, environmental message
Dislikes: no pocket, collar depth

Lowe Alpine
01539 740840
www.lowealpine.com

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