Three hours on the start line of a yacht race and then walking in Storm Bert gave me the chance to really test the warmth and waterproofness of the new Musto BR1 Primaloft® Mid-Layer Jacket
I tested the new Musto BR1 Primaloft® Mid-Layer Jacket to see if it was as waterproof and warm as the claims
One of the biggest bugbears I have with sailing gear is needing lots of different kit to do essentially the same thing so I was eager to try Musto’s new BR1 Primaloft® Mid-Layer Jacket, which can be used as a jacket or a mid-layer when it gets colder.
A bonus is that it is also available in both men’s and women’s sizes to deliver a good fit.
This is a versatile garment, and I wore it as a jacket while covering the start of the 2024 Vendee Globe, spending three hours out on the start line.
A Velcro strap means the hood is adjustable. Credit: John Stickland
I can vouch for how waterproof the jacket is as the RIB I was on was swamped by a wave at one point (due to the amount of boat traffic following the skippers).
I remained completely bone dry (the jacket has fully taped seams) and toasty warm, thanks to the body-mapped Primaloft® RISE insulation which barely retains moisture so it is warm even when wet.
This jacket is also light to wear and can be packed down well (it was stuffed into the bottom of my work rucksack while travelling out to France), a plus on a boat.
The cuffs are fully adjustable. Credit: John Stickland
The sleeves are articulated so you can move around in the jacket easily, essential when grinding winches or pulling lines.
The packable hood can be made to fit your head size via the Velcro strap at the back. The cuffs and hem can be adjusted to ensure the fit is snug.
The neck of the jacket has a fleece lining so when you zip it all the way up, your chin isn’t rubbed raw.
There are two zipped side pockets, with brushed lining and a front zipped pocket which I found very useful for storing my glasses and mobile phone.
The perfect pocket for storing those much-needed glasses! Credit: John Stickland
Since returning home, I have worn the jacket dog walking, even during Storm Bert, and it stood up to its waterproof credentials.
Having slipped over in mud, I have also washed it as per the instructions and it was still as good as new.
For those concerned about the environmental impact, the jacket’s shell, lining and insulation are all made from 100% recycled polyester.
The men’s jacket is available in navy, black and ombre blue. The women’s jacket is available in navy, black and mulberry.
Sizes: Men’s: Small-XXL; Women’s: 8-18
Buy the Men’s BR1 Primaloft® Mid-Layer Jacket here
Buy the Women’s BR1 Primaloft® Mid-Layer Jacket here