New Zealand brand Inselberg may have rewritten the definition of durability for an alpine shell jacket with the Axiom. From the outside it looks like a typical shell, replete with the features you’d expect for multiple days in mountains and confidence in prolonged severe weather. But its development in conjunction with the Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Rescue Team (AMCART) and collaboration with Japanese fabric specialists has resulted in a highly refined garment that’s built for purpose.
At the heart of this jacket is an innovative four-layer waterproof breathable fabric with a class-topping waterproof rating and exceptional durability. A comprehensive development cycle saw this fabric sculpted into 18 prototypes before the final design was signed off for production. The result is a practical mountain garment that’s cut to allow for alpine layering, is harness and helmet compatible and is honed for usability with glove-friendly cuffs, large pockets and pit zips.
Despite its bombproof feel and complete features, this shell maintains a respectable weight of 480g (size L), as well as being quite reasonably priced for its class-leading specifications. We’ve experienced it defeating heavy rain and have been impressed with its mobility and finely tuned details.
Ultra durable four-layer fabric
You’d be forgiven for wondering if ‘four-layer’ is a typo, because it’s not a common spec. This fabric has been developed in partnership with Japanese brand Toray, incorporating their highly regarded Demizax system – in this instance combining two overlapping membranes, one microporous and the other porous. This is paired with an abrasion-resistant 140D face and a lining for a shell that feels burlier than a typical high-denier three-layer jacket yet is comfortable to wear. It has very little stretch, but the roomy cut makes up for this.
Exceptional waterproof rating
The Axiom’s waterproof rating of 40,000mm HH is double that of most three-layer jackets.
It’s built to endure wind-driven Southern Alps rain and, unlike open-pore membrane fabrics, is less affected by DWR degradation and pore contamination from dirt and salt. The enhanced waterproofing and durability does impact breathability, with a rating of 10,000gm2 MVTR, but large water-resistant pit zips help counter this.
Alpine-ready fit
This jacket is cut to allow for generous layering and will fit comfortably over a midlayer and insulated jacket without crushing the insulation and restricting movement. The cuffs have plenty of overlap with gloves, and the helmet-compatible hood moves with your head and has three-point adjustment so that it’s protective without obscuring vision. The adjustments use large glove-friendly Cohaesive cord-locks that are integrated into the garment.
Pack-friendly pockets
All pockets are positioned clear of a harness or pack waist belt and have water-resistant zips. We took note of the large dual-access left chest pocket, which is great for stashing gloves. A smaller one opposite is ideal for a phone or navigation device and there are two non-closing interior pockets too.
Wilderness verdict
The Axiom’s waterproof rating and storm-ready features position it at the top of the peak, making it a reliable pick for trans-alpine adventures, climbing and professional use. While not as breathable as some, it’s durable without being heavy and outpaces others on price.
Trail Specs
Price $690
Weight 580g
Fabric Four-layer Ourea 140D Nylon with Dermizax PU membrane
Waterproof rating 40,000mm HH
Breathability 10,000gm2 MVTR
Sustainability PFC-free DWR, recyclable membrane
Sizing XS–XXL
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