Mammut’s new «Loopinsulation» review: warmth out in the wild

I liked the concept: a jacket padded with waste from industrial ropes. That's why I was glad to hear a detailed explanation of the process at Mammut in Seon.

Theory’s one thing, practice is different. I wanted to find out for myself whether the new insulation can actually compete with conventional synthetic padding. That’s why Mammut provided me with the Rime Light In Flex Hooded Jacket sporting the new «Loopinsulation». The light jacket promises to be well suited for hiking, but also for ski tours and mountaineering.

As I was about to go on holiday to Sardinia, I packed the jacket. The conditions were perfect for a test . Although the temperature reached around 20 degrees Celsius during the day, it was significantly lower in the morning – the perfect time for hiking – and evening. There was also high humidity on the coast and a fresh breeze. The jacket would have to show what it’s capable of in these conditions.

Sporty fit and freedom of movement

The jacket fits me perfectly in size S. The athletic cut is also suitable for women with slightly broader shoulders. The jacket is tight-fitting and slightly figure-hugging, but not at all constricting. This makes it look nice, so I’d also wear it as a transitional jacket in everyday life. At the same time, it’s slim enough that it fits under a hardshell jacket in rainy, snowy or stormy weather.

In terms of warmth and insulation, I’d put it in the same category as other lightweight Primaloft jackets. At 315 grammes including the carrying case, I can easily take it with me as a backup when it gets cooler, or in my backpack for breaks when hiking.

The Rime Light In Flex Hooded Jacket is very flexible – I can stretch my arms in all directions and bend and flex as I want without it being tight. This is due to the stretchy material and particularly the stretch panels made of soft knit on the sides and under the arms. The inserts also offer another advantage – the material under the arms and on the sides isn’t lined, so it takes longer for me to start sweating.

Breathable while hiking

With synthetic padding and light Pertex outer fabric, the jacket provides enough warmth while staying breathable. I didn’t notice that the padding was made of recycled ropes because it performed just as well as, for example, Primaloft insulation. The jacket isn’t made for really low temperatures; it’s for people who like to be outdoors.

I was curious to see whether the padding would retain its shape despite moisture or whether it would clump together. I had the chance to test this in light drizzle. It actually held up to the moisture for a while and the insulation remained fluffy. However, I wouldn’t wear the jacket in heavy rain. Or if I did, I’d only wear it as a mid-layer under a rain or hardshell jacket.

Few but useful details

The Rime Light In Flex Hooded Jacket doesn’t have any frills. But the few details it does have are practical. In addition to the two side pockets, there’s an inside pocket perfect for storing your phone, wallet or keys.

The hood has a rubbery, flexible finish. Together with the raised collar, it prevents the wind from cooling you down too much.