Plusses: Warm, plush and well-fitting.
Minuses: Heavy, too warm for moderate exercise

Features: The jacket contains 187g of 800-fill power HyperDry goose down with a Pertex Quantum outer shell treated with DWR. It has a total weight if 570g (m), 510g (w).

Two large handwarmer pockets and two internal mesh pockets provide plenty of storage.

The peaked hood is helmet-compatible, adjustable, and zips over the chin.

A double zipper allows belay or harness access. Internal fleece cuffs trap warmth and prevent drafts, and an adjustable hem traps body warmth. 5/5

Fit: A larger fit, the Arrowsmith comfortably accommodates layers beneath, while long sleeves and a below-the-buttocks hem provide room for movement. It 

Comfort: Slipping on a plush down jacket is a hard sensation to beat, and the Arrowsmith is a real marshmallow of a jacket – warm, soft and oversized. The fleece cuffs are a brilliant touch, and once experienced, it’s hard to go back to nylon. The hood is on the large side if you’re not wearing a helmet. 

In use: For relaxing in cold huts, belaying, or gentle exercise in extreme cold, the Arrowsmith is an excellent choice. For anything more active, however, it may be too warm, and its puffy bulk may make some feel restricted.

The 800 loft down brings sleeping bag-level warmth in freezing weather, and its long hem, fleece cuffs, hood and handwarmer pockets keep your top half super warm. At 570g, it’s bulkier and heavier than most down jackets, but if warmth is a necessity on your expedition, the extra weight won’t be an issue.

The extra loft was appreciated on several winter trips – particularly at night when the jacket made for the best tramping pillow I’ve ever used. 

Value: Designed for use in the mountains and extreme cold, it’s moderately-priced for those who need the insulation. 

Verdict: A hyper warm jacket for those expecting extreme cold.