Review

The Review | Haglöfs L.I.M Barrier Pro Hood

23.11.2014
by

It’s that time of year again, frost lays thick on the ground, shredding around in T-shirts is a thing of the past and its time to carry the proper kit. If you want to ride in the mountains during the winter you need good gear; and nothing is more essential than a packable thermal layer. When things do not go to plan, you get lost or the weather changes, an extra warm layer can make all the difference in a mountain environment. The ideal qualities of an insulating jacket are that it should be warm, lightweight (so you carry it every time), durable and close fitting, we check out Haglöfs most lightweight, minimalist, and packable offering

The LIM Barrier Pro Hood has become my go-to jacket off the bike, despite the wacky hood
The LIM Barrier Pro Hood has become my go-to jacket off the bike, despite the whacky hood

The L.I.M Barrier Pro Jacket fits into Haglöfs ‘Less Is More range’ delivering cutting edge fabrics and performance, while being stripped of all unnecessary details; not weighing a gram more than is absolutely necessary. Filled with QuadFusion+ insulation, it offers an extraordinarily warmth-to-weight ratio for cold adventures. While not waterproof, it has a DWR treated surface and has fast drying lightweight insulation. Retailing at £190 it does not come cheap, but is similar in price to other high end competition.

The jacket features QuadFusion+ insulation,and delivers extraordinarily warmth-to-weight ratio (200g)
The jacket features QuadFusion+ insulation,and delivers extraordinarily warmth-to-weight ratio (200g)
The tight fitting hood allows a helmet to be worn over the top
The tight fitting hood allows a helmet to be worn over the top

We really like the fit of the jacket, slim enough to be worn under a outer layer, but also smart enough and warm enough to throw on for pub missions. With elasticated cuffs and hood, there really is nothing too it when packed down; weighing just 200g. Even after being stuffed in a bag for a week, it does not hold creases and looks smart for apres-biking activities. We found the hood a bit funny looking at first, but it can be worn under a helmet and keeps your ears warm if you face a big hike-a-bike. The Barrier Pro is too lightweight to survive a big crash, but can be worn under a more durable layer for added warmth. The insulation delivers plenty of warmth; while still feeling super breathable and airy.

This jacket has been a trusty companion for the last 6 months
This jacket has been a trusty companion for the last 6 months
When it is time to go, simply stuff the jacket back into its pocket
When it is time to go, simply stuff the jacket back into its pocket
The LIM Barrier Pro packs down to a very small size
The LIM Barrier Pro packs down to a very small size

Bottom Line

The LIM Barrier Pro Hood is not a riding jacket, but I have practically lived in this for the last six months, and it has been an essential companion on many a mountain trip. Light enough to carry on every adventure, it has been whipped out on every summit and coffee stop, providing just enough warmth to keep the cold at bay. It is expensive but the thermal properties have been very impressive and it does not suffer loss of warmth when wet (unlike a down jacket). Slim fitting enough to be worn under or over a conventional jacket this could be a life saver if caught out in the mountains.

For more information check out the Haglöfs webpage

Words and photos: Trev Worsey

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