OMM Womens Kamleika Jacket

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The Kamleika Jacket has been updated this season with improved breathability and improved durability. It still has the same stretch, level of protection and some practical features that made the previous version such a success.

OMM says

On the track; an athlete wears a stretch fibre suit, on the mountain; a mountaineer wears their bombproof hardshell. The Kamleika takes the athlete onto the mountain with a shell layer that protects from wind and rain while stretching to give freedom of movement and so aiding athletic performance. Highly breathable and now even more durable, in its new Nylon face fabric; the Kamleika women’s and men’s jackets weigh in at just 235g/250g. Kamleika is the choice for people who have recognised that they may have to wear a waterproof all day and yet still head for the fells anyway.

The Kamleika was and still is the original stretch running waterproof. Running in the mountains, in the rain throws up as many challenges for kit as it does for people. This is particularly true when designing a waterproof where a blend of properties must be achieved. We demand durability, comfort, stretch, weather protective features, low weight, waterproofness and breathability, all of which must be balanced in the perfect combination. The Kamlieka is OMM’s answer to this challenge. Newly updated for winter 2020 to have a Nylon outer layer, it is now more durable than ever.

The History:

OMM invented stretch waterproofs a little over 20 years ago, and the Kamleika was the first waterproof to introduce true stretch. We’ve improved on the technology over the years to reduce weight, improve breathability and add features but the formula has stayed the same. Now in its 5th generation, the latest Kamleika builds upon decades of design and thorough testing in the harshest of races.

Our Verdict

OMM’s 2020 Womens Kamleika Jacket uses the new and improved Kamleika fabric with a more durable nylon outer which still maintains a soft, stretchy and comfortable feel. It doesn’t feel like a traditional waterproof shell, in fact, the material doesn’t feel waterproof at all. However, it is waterproof and it works really well and has an increased level of breathability in this version. On a simpler note, the style and range of colours in this jacket is the best yet.

It may not be ultralight in comparison to some of the more basic race shells but it is much more durable, have a number of excellent features and will be able to cope with the harshest conditions you are likely to encounter on the hills and mountains. Some slight changes to design features have been made with the hood the most noticeable. The rear adjuster is must better to use and there is an internal cradle but I don’t think it works as effectively as the old draw cords when the weather is challenging.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• Women’s specific fit
• Fully taped seams
• Adjustable peaked hood with internal cradle
• Active Cuff & thumb loops
• Dynamic Droptail
• Reflective detail (front, sleeve, back)
• Full length YKK® Aquaguard zip
• Two large hand/map pockets
• Zip garage on all zips

Specifications

• XSmall (UK 08) weighs: 212g
• Small (UK 10) weighs: 222g
• Medium (UK 12) weighs: 242g
• Fit: Standard fit

Materials

• Kamleika – Nylon 4 Way stretch 
• Improved waterproofing
• Waterproof & breathable
• Soft and quiet face fabric
• Hydrostatic head: 20,000mm
• Breathability (mvtr): 20,000 g/m2

Help and advice:

• Choosing a Waterproof Jacket
• MVTR Breathability
• Hydrostatic Head