Mountain Equipment Saltoro Gore-Tex Jacket

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A serious shell for long days in the hills, now updated with a more sustainable membrane and even better detailing. Dependable, protective and well-cut for varied mountain use.

Mountain Equipment says: 

Lightweight and packable enough to carry for emergencies, yet robust and reliable for all-day wear, the Saltoro is the ideal waterproof and windproof layer for trekkers, backpackers, and hillwalkers. It is designed to handle mixed weather conditions in the mountains.

Constructed with next-generation GORE-TEX with ePE membrane and a durable 75D face fabric, the Saltoro is a comfortable waterproof shell that can withstand regular use while carrying a pack. Its carefully developed Alpine fit and articulated, pre-shaped sleeves minimize bulk without restricting movement, allowing you to confidently navigate technical terrain.

The fully adjustable, helmet-compatible Mountain Hood provides reliable protection against driving rain. Additional features include a dropped rear hem, adjustable laminated cuffs, and dual tether hem drawcords that enhance protection, seal out water, and improve fit. The YKK® moulded Aquaguard® centre front zip with an internal storm flap adds extra insulation against heavy rain, while zipped underarm vents help manage moisture during steep ascents or in humid conditions.

Two large, zipped pockets are perfect for accommodating maps and other essentials. Whether packed away as a backup for changing conditions or worn continuously in inclement weather, the Saltoro is essential for those who trek, backpack, or hill walk but refuse to compromise on protection.

Our Verdict

The latest version of the Saltoro Gore-Tex Jacket from Mountain Equipment features the updated ePE membrane, offering the same impressive waterproof performance (28,000mm hydrostatic head) without PFAS. At 445g for a Medium, it sits in a middle ground between lightweight and full-on alpine hardshells, making it a strong pick for all-round mountain use. The 75D recycled polyester face fabric feels tough enough for pack wear and rough terrain without being overbuilt.

The fit is neat but allows for layering, with articulated sleeves and a dropped hem that work well under movement. The hood adjusts cleanly and stays put in rough weather, and I’ve found the wired peak holds shape even in wind. Pockets are large and usable with a pack, and the side venting helps when you’re working hard uphill. It would be suitable for year-round trekking, including winter use, where you need protection and packability.

If you’re after a no-nonsense, do-it-all mountain jacket, this is the one to beat.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

Patterning & Design

• Alpine Fit with articulated and pre-shaped sleeves allows maximum mobility
• A very adaptable jacket which is based on our Alpine Fit pattern. It is well suited both to wearing with multiple midlayers in winter as well as just thin layers in summer. Most people find the Saltoro fits ‘true to size’ no matter when or with which layers they wear it with
• YKK® WR side zips allow for airflow & ventilation when required

Hood Configuration

• Our Mountain Hood provides dependable shelter during harsh weather conditions
• Hood is fully adjustable with rear volume adjustment and two frontal adjusters
• Laminated and wired hood visor maintains field of vision even in high winds or when wearing glasses or goggles
• Tethered external cordlocks to adjust the hood opening
• Internal rear hood adjuster cord channels with rollaway clip

Pocket Configuration

• 2 large outer hand pockets with YKK® WR zips with zip garages, positioned to be accessible when carrying a pack and large enough to store gloves and other items
• Waterproof pocket bags

Centre Front Zip

• Full length 2-way YKK® moulded AquaGuard® centre front zip with internal storm flap

Cuffs & Sleeves Configuration

• Adjustable laminated cuffs
• Bar tack reinforcement on cuff pull tabs

Waist & Hem Construction

• Stitched hem
• Dual tether hem drawcords

Specifications

• Small weighs: 424g
• Medium weighs: 445g
• Large weighs: 456g
• XLarge weighs: 482g
• Hydrostatic Head: 28,000 mm
• Breathabilty: RET <20

Material & Construction

• Waterproof, windproof and breathable; next gen GORE-TEX with ePE membrane is guaranteed to keep you dry
• Main Fabric: Waterproof breathable 3-layer construction, 75 Denier, 100% Recycled polyester face fabric with GORE-
• TEX ePE membrane
• PFAS – Free DWR
• Taped seams throughout to prevent water entry

Help & advice:

• Choosing a Waterproof Jacket
• Time-Saver Guide to PFC Fre
• Time-Saver Guide to Choosing a Waterproof Jacket
• MVTR Breathability
• Hydrostatic Head
• Gore-Tex ePE Membrane