Mountain Equipment Makalu GORE-TEX Men’s Jacket – Recycled Waterproof Shell for Technical Outdoor Use

Year-Round, Eco-Conscious Weather Protection Built for NZ’s Wildest Backcountry

When you're deep in New Zealand's backcountry, whether navigating Fiordland's relentless rain or bracing against alpine wind in the Southern Alps, the Mountain Equipment Makalu GORE-TEX Men's Jacket delivers protection without compromise. This 3-layer hardshell combines GORE-TEX ePE technology with 100% recycled construction, giving mountaineers, trampers, and climbers a jacket that balances environmental responsibility with serious technical performance. Built for year-round alpine use, the Makalu stands up to New Zealand's unpredictable weather while maintaining the breathability needed for high-output days in the mountains.

Key Features

GORE-TEX ePE Membrane
Next-generation waterproofing that is PFAS-free and fully breathable. Keeps you dry in heavy rain, wind, and snow while allowing moisture to escape during intense climbs.

100% Recycled Polyester Construction
Made with durable 75-denier recycled fabric that reduces environmental impact while resisting abrasion from rock, ice, and dense bush.

Mountain HC Hood
Helmet-compatible and fully adjustable with a three-point tensioning system, providing reliable coverage whether wearing a climbing helmet or going bare-headed in storm conditions.

Alpine Fit with Pre-Shaped Sleeves
Articulated construction allows unrestricted movement for technical climbing, scrambling, and overhead reaches without the jacket riding up.

Comprehensive Ventilation System
Two-way pit zips and a two-way front zipper allow rapid heat release during high-exertion ascents, helping prevent moisture build-up inside the jacket.

Weatherproof Closures
Laminated cuffs, a dual drawcord hem, and AquaGuard centre zip seal out wind and rain when conditions turn severe.

Well-Positioned Storage
Two hand pockets, a Napoleon chest pocket, and a laser-cut internal pocket all use waterproof YKK zips and sit clear of harnesses and pack waist belts.

Fair Wear Foundation Certified
Manufactured under verified labour standards to ensure ethical and responsible production.

Real-World Use Case

Picture yourself three days into a Ruapehu crossing when the weather window closes. Sideways rain lashes exposed ridgelines as you move with a full pack and ice axe. The Makalu’s hood locks down securely, pit zips regulate your temperature on the climb, and every pocket stays dry despite hours of sustained rain. Whether establishing a belay on a South Island alpine route or pushing through Fiordland’s notorious weather, this jacket moves with you and keeps the elements outside where they belong.

Specs

• Weight: 550 g (19.4 oz)

• Outer Fabric: 100% recycled polyester, 75-denier

• Waterproof Membrane: GORE-TEX ePE (PFAS-free, waterproof, windproof, breathable)

• Construction: 3-layer laminate

• Fit: Alpine fit with articulated sleeves

• Hood: Mountain HC design, helmet-compatible, three-point adjustment

• Ventilation: Two-way pit zips, two-way front zipper

• Pockets: Two hand pockets, one Napoleon chest pocket, one internal laser-cut pocket, all with waterproof YKK zips

• Closures: AquaGuard two-way centre zip, laminated cuffs, dual drawcord hem

• Certifications: Fair Wear Foundation certified

• DWR Treatment: Fluorocarbon-free durable water repellent

• Sustainability: 100% recycled face fabric with PFAS-free membrane and DWR

What’s Included

• 1 × Mountain Equipment Makalu GORE-TEX Men's Jacket

• Care and washing instructions

• Product information card

• Eco-friendly packaging with minimal plastic and recyclable materials

FAQ

Q: Will this jacket handle multi-day trips in heavy rain?
A: Yes. The GORE-TEX ePE membrane provides reliable waterproof protection during prolonged exposure, and the fluorocarbon-free DWR helps water bead off the surface. Regular reproofing will maintain performance over years of use.

Q: How does the Alpine fit work for layering?
A: The Alpine fit is designed to accommodate base layers, mid-layers, and insulation without feeling bulky. Pre-shaped sleeves and articulated patterning maintain full freedom of movement when layered.

Q: Is the GORE-TEX ePE membrane as durable as traditional GORE-TEX?
A: Yes. While ePE technology is more environmentally responsible and PFAS-free, it delivers the same waterproof, windproof, and breathable performance GORE-TEX is known for. The 75D recycled face fabric adds strong abrasion resistance.

Q: Will the hood fit over a climbing or mountaineering helmet?
A: Yes. The Mountain HC hood is helmet-compatible and uses a three-point adjustment system to dial in the fit whether you’re wearing a helmet, a beanie, or nothing at all.