Review - Vaude Kabru Light II Insulated Down Jacket

Review - Vaude Kabru Light Jacket II
The Vaude Kabru Light II Down Jacket has achieved the rank of 'favourite' amongst my insulated off-the-bike jackets, within a very short space of time. Much like the Vaude Termatic RC Mountain Bike Boots, and the Vaude Winter Cycling Jackets, it is an incredibly well thought-out and executed piece of kit.

What makes it the best lightweight down jacket that I've come across to date?

  • First, there's the colour - that perfect blue (regular blog readers will know I'm a sucker for this).
  • Second, there's the fit - not too flappy, not too tight. Vaude call it a 'Sportive' cut.
  • Third, there's the build quality, and the weight of the jacket - it reaches that sought-after balance of feeling featherweight, but with a German quality that promises to last many winters.

The Kabru Light II is the kind of jacket that I would wear on a smart business field trip; an evening walk; or take with me on my next bikepacking trip.

Intelligent insulation

This jacket is feather light... (pun intended). The 90/10 down insulation weighs next to nothing, and you certainly won't notice it if you stash this in your riding rucksack or pannier.

Vaude haven't just used down insulation in the Kabru Light though; they've also integrated high-end packable Primaloft Silver insulation in the cuffs and side panels of the jacket. This is a very sensible idea, as the humidity-repelling material means the jacket is less susceptible to damage from moisture in these key contact areas.

Durability

It's not just the intelligent synthetic/down insulation mix that makes the Kabru unique though; Vaude have also considered other possible wear areas.

They've used a durable Pertex quantum material on the outer shell; this is like a water resistant rip-stop material. Then they've also added stretch fabric inserts under the arms, to allow greater flexibility, and less chance of ripping. It is details like these that set the Kabru apart from other lightweight down jackets.

Overall

Packable, lightweight, yet built to last. Those three attributes are a bikepacker or bike tourer's golden trio; but also make this jacket superb for off-the-bike wear.

This is another winter winner from the Vaude brand.

View the Vaude range at vaude.co.uk (Link)

Vaude Kabru Light II Insulated Down Jacket
The Kabru Light II has a slim sportive cut, and a slight drop in the rear hem to keep out the chill

Vaude Kabru Light II Insulated Down Jacket
Comfortable, packable, lightweight and durable. Winning attributes on the Vaude Kabru Light.

Vaude Kabru Light II Insulated Down Jacket
Another winner from the German brand



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