Gear Review | Penguin 3-layer Dermizax Shell Jacket 161

First impression, features

Even when you first put it on, it feels comfortable to wear and all the features seem to make sense and work. The two front pockets are very large (great!) and easy to use. There is also a lift card pocket on the left sleeve and a small zip pocket on the inside for important small items. The generous hood fits well over the helmet if required. There is a detachable snow skirt, which can somehow be combined with matching Penguin trousers. I don't have matching trousers so I can't comment further on this. There are also ventilation zips, which are also easy to use and fulfil their purpose. There is a kind of additional ventilation option on the collar - a short diagonal zip can be opened here to activate a "window" with holes. If you close the main zip all the way up and pull the jacket over your chin, it breathes a little better. 

The material is relatively thick and appears much more robust compared to weight-optimised lightweight shells. Of course, it is also a little heavier. The jacket is rather bulky and takes up quite a bit of space when you pack it in your backpack.

Conclusion

Penguin concentrates on the essentials when it comes to its clothing range. There are merino baselayers, a few variations of insulating midlayers and the hardshell on top. Apart from small design updates, the hardshell has changed little since the last test on PowderGuide. And why should it? The principle has proven itself, everything works. Personally, I like the idea of not having to reinvent the world and all winter sports equipment from socks to hats every season. I mainly use the Penguin Hardshell as a freeride or ski resort jacket and I think it's ideal for this. 

Advantages & disadvantages

+Large pockets

+Comfortable cut

±Relatively heavy, but robust

Information on

RRP CHF590,-

• Dermizax 3-layer with tricot protection

• Water column: >20000mm (JIS L 1092B-1)

• Breathability >16000mg/m2/24h (JIS 1099B-1)

• Impregnation strength: Initial 90%, 80% after 100 washes (JIS L 0217)

• Outer fabric: 100% polyester Membrane: 100% polyurethane

• Protective backer (backer): 100% nylon

• Loose fit for freedom of movement   

• 100 % seamsealed    

• Waterproof pockets    

• Waterproof YKK® zippers     

• Side ventilation openings    

• Easy-grip zipper pullers    

• Chin-protection flap    

• Detachable snowskirt    

• Snowskirt with zip-to-pant system     

• Hood with 2-way adjustment    

• Helmet fits under storm hood 

Here is the link to the Penguin website with further information.

The jacket was provided to PowderGuide free of charge by the manufacturer. You can find out how we test it in our test statement.