After scouring the internet for a flexible yet technical hard shell that would be comfortable enough inbounds and reliable enough to venture further into the Backcountry, I settled on the Mammut Stoney Hardshell Jacket (and Pants). The only other credible alpine brand that provided the features I wanted (and I could buy in-store) was the Black Diamond Stretch Recon. I paid just under $400USD for the jacket on sale.
Jacket features
· Wind and waterproof 3-layer Mammut DRYtechnology Pro material.
· Detachable and adjustable hood.
· Water-resistant Aquaguard front zipper.
· Chest pocket with water repellent zipper.
· 2 side pockets with water-repellent zippers.
· Removal internal powder skirt.
· Wrist gaiters.
· 40D main fabric strength.
· 20,000mm waterproof rating.
· blueDESIGN and FairWear certified.
1. Construction: 9/10
Mammut was a relative unknown for me, as we have no local stockists in my town, so I was interested to see how the garment held up. Itt is meticulously assembled, with a rigorous seam-seal and generous stitching at the hem. The construction is on par with my Arcteryx Paclite GoreTex shell that I have worn for nearly a decade. It’s still too early to tell how many seasons I will get out of this but the early signs are promising. The only part of the garment that isn’t quite up to the same standards are the wrist gaiters. They feel like a bit of an afterthought, with a boxy cut and what feels to be a cheaper elastic material. That said, they keep the snow out, so it’s definitely not a dealbreaker. The garment is on the heavier end of the spectrum at 785g, or 1.73lbs, which may be too much of a burden for those planning on spending more time in the backcountry than in-bounds.
2. Waterproofing and breathability: 8/10
The 3-layer Mammut DRYtechnology Pro material performed perfectly in the conditions it was exposed to, and I never had an issue with breathability (although this is an aspect of waterproof gear that I have never really worried about). The big caveat here is that I spent all of my time in cold conditions riding in very dry snow, so you’d expect it to perform well. This will need an update when it’s had time in wetter New Zealand conditions. However, it kept me dry, and breathed well.
3. Fit and Comfort: 8/10
Great relaxed fit with space everywhere you need it. Feels technical while not being a tight fit. I am 6ft 175lbs and the large fits perfect. Despite being a technical jacket, the tail has plenty of length, making it great for those who prefer a bigger jacket. It is worth noting that the collar felt a little tight if I had anything more than my base and mid layer up. I doubt this is an issue for many, but worth paying attention to if you’re trying it on. The stretch fabric removes the issue of pinch-points, and I never had my movement restricted. One criticism I do have is the relatively short collar, leading to less protection from wind and snow as some may like.
4. Features: 9/10
For a mid price jacket, it packs in all the features you’d want for the price, and a few extras. The wrist gaiters are nice, and the removable hood can save you some space on backcountry trips if it’s something you’re not finding yourself using. There is a secure internal zip pocket, and a goggle pocket. I appreciate the thick wrist straps that don’t feel like they’ll get worn out quickly. The outer breast pocket and hand pockets both have water-repellent zips.
Our verdict
The Mammut Stoney HS an incredibly comfortable all-round piece of equipment. For the mid-tier price point you get a jacket packed with top level specs and features. Boasting Mammut’s 3-layer DryTechnology Pro membrane with a PFC free DWR, wrist gaiters, lift-pass pocket and a removable powder skirt and hood, this jacket can be your all occasion jacket. After six days in deep Hokkaido Powder, the Stoney Series handled everything we threw at it. If you’re on the fence, or after a technical piece that doesn’t scream “I prefer skiing for the culture”, then it could be for you. A great jacket at a great price-point.