As someone passionate about mountain climbing and exploring the great outdoors, I was excited to test the new Haglöfs ROC Flash GTX jacket. Throughout my trials, I faced various weather conditions, from chilly mornings to warm afternoons with some rain showers. Finding a jacket that can reliably protect you against all possible weather conditions can be challenging.
In this review, I’ll share my experience with the Haglöfs ROC Flash GTX jacket and help you determine whether it’s the right partner for your next adventure. Haglöfs is a Swedish brand that designs high-quality outdoor equipment for adventurers worldwide. Haglöfs continuously develops innovative products that meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, regardless of their skill level.
Experience
I had a great experience wearing the ROC Flash GTX jacket during my hike in the Veluwe. The jacket was very versatile and protected me from different weather conditions. I also appreciated the solid and durable feel of the material. I highly recommend this jacket for mountain hikes, mainly because of its waterproof and breathable features, which I’ll discuss in more detail later. The adjustable hood ensured my head and neck were well-protected from the rain and wind. Additionally, the hood is spacious enough to wear a helmet while climbing.
Fabric
An essential aspect of the ROC Flash GTX jacket is using Gore-Tex material. This material ensures the waterproof and breathable properties of the jacket. Gore-Tex is a membrane consisting of tiny pores large enough to let sweat vapours through but small enough to keep water molecules out. This keeps you dry and comfortable, even in wet conditions. In addition, Gore-Tex material is highly durable and resistant to abrasion, making it ideal for rugged environments and climbing routes. This makes the ROC Flash GTX jacket the perfect choice for mountaineering activities.
Comfort
I was impressed not only by the jacket’s performance but also by its fit and comfort. The jacket feels flexible and doesn’t restrict my movements. I felt free to move around while wearing it without any limitations. Additionally, the underarm zippers are helpful as they provide extra ventilation when needed. The jacket has a soft lining that feels very comfortable against the skin.
I was pleasantly surprised by how lightweight the Haglöfs ROC Flash GTX jacket felt when I put it on, even though it weighs 540 grams. However, for those who prioritize an ultralight design, it may feel slightly heavier compared to other lightweight rain jackets. While the fit was generally good, I noticed that the bottom of the jacket was a bit loose, even though I usually wear size L.
Thankfully, the jacket has adjustable elements, including a cord at the bottom, which allowed me to tighten the hard shell around my waist. Another great feature of this jacket is that its pockets are designed to be easily accessible, even when wearing a climbing harness, which adds to its usability and functionality, especially during outdoor activities like climbing.
Final verdict
The Haglöfs ROC Flash GTX jacket is definitely an excellent choice for those looking for reliability, versatility, and comfort. This hard shell offers high protection thanks to its waterproof Gore-Tex membrane and durable construction. Although the price is relatively high (with a retail price of 450 euros), as with most Haglöfs products, you get what you pay for. For those looking for a high-quality jacket that performs well and lasts long, the Haglöfs ROC Flash GTX jacket is undoubtedly worth considering.
