Palm Equipment Vantage Jacket
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
