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If anyone understands the brutal reality of “gnarly” weather, it’s the founders of Jöttnar. As ex-British Commandos, their design philosophy was forged during years of slogging through the unforgiving climates of Norway, Sweden, and Finland. This pedigree is evident in the Midgard, their classic mountaineering shell. It isn’t just a jacket; it’s a piece of technical equipment designed for those who venture fast and deep into the unknown.
Construction & Weather Protection
The Jöttnar Midgard is built around the 3-layer Pertex® Shield Pro system. I have found that Pertex is the best of the Gore Tex alternatives and Jöttnar have achieved a good balance between rugged waterproofing, dynamic breathability and cost by using it. They have used Pertex from the very beginning and have supported this British brand which is a core value and says a lot considering many brands succumb to the lure of Gore Tex.
As I have consistently written in all my hardshell reviews – breathability is subjective. Take the dog for walk around the park and any membrane is going to be breathable because you are not working. Hike up a hill with pack on your back in the rain and you are going to be wet one way or another. Warm and damp is what you should be expecting and the Pertex Shield Pro performed as expected. Ventilation is provided by the 2 ways pit zips and I was perfectly damp, warm and comfortable in all this January could throw at me!
The face fabric is a 40D recycled nylon that provides durability without the “cardboard” stiffness of heavier shells, while a 20D tricot backer ensures it feels soft against the skin or mid-layers. It is more than soft enough for packing and casual wear and isn’t too noisy when on the move. The fabric is finished with a PFAS free DWR that worked well and I will be planning to refresh it at the end of the season. I’ve worn the jacket for a variety of mountain activities from rainy hikes to freezing cold rock climbing sessions and the Midgard has performed perfectly – keeping me warm and (relatively) dry when I have needed it to.
To ensure maximum protection, all sewn seams are meticulously taped. There are some bonded seams, such as the interior pocket, the peak and the hem cinch but these are non structural and help minimise bulk and abrasion points. I’ve had issues before with fully welded seams in jackets that came apart alarmingly quickly! At least with sewn seams if the tape begins to delaminate the jacket doesn’t fall aprt! The exterior features YKK AquaGuard VISLON zips, backed by an internal storm gasket to keep spindrift exactly where it belongs—outside. The hand warmer pockets are sited to accommodate a pack and climbing harness and sealed with AquaGuard coil zips. There is also a well sized chest pocket big enough to carry a route description, small folded map or any other aids you might need quick access. On top of that there is an internal, zipped pocket which is big enough for most phones or a small camera. So, really well featured on the pocket front and well thought out.
Fit and Articulation
One of the Midgard’s standout features is its articulated cut. It moves with intention, allowing for fluid movement on steep ground or while reaching for that high placement in a gully or ice bulge.
The sizing is “technical yet generous.” It is streamlined enough to avoid bunching under a climbing harness, yet has enough internal volume to accommodate a mid-layer when the temperature plunges. The dropped rear hem is a welcome touch, providing extra coverage when you’re bent over or reaching high. A well thought out feature which you can tell has been designed by people with an intimate knowledge of UK and Arctic conditions.
Mountaineering-Specific Features
Jöttnar has “stuffed” this jacket with features that prove it was designed by people who actually climb:
- The Hood: A 3-way adjustable, helmet-compatible design with a laminated, stiffened peak. It offers excellent visibility and uses glove-adjustable cords—crucial when the wind is howling. This is fully adjustable to get the perfect fit and it easily released with hidden button cinches on the front and one handed, glove friendly cinch at the back.
- Venting: Generous two-way pit zips allow for active temperature control during high-output approaches.
Premium finishing touches include Hypalon cuff tabs with triple-reinforced Velcro ensure a secure seal at the wrists, while Jöttnar’s signature anti-snag cords at the hem prevent gear tangling during complex manoeuvres. Reflective and embroidered Jöttnar logo on the front and at the back of the head so you can be seen on those early morning starts.
Final Verdict
At just 420g, the Midgard sits in that elusive “sweet spot” between minimalist weight and heavy-duty protection. It is light and soft enough to be easily packed away, yet robust enough to deploy when a bluebird morning turns into a Highland whiteout. It has proved to be a very versatile jacket that has been perfect for the varied conditions we have been ‘enjoying’ here in the UK this winter. More robust than an ultralight shell but lighter and more agile than a winter fortress type shell.
Whether you are shedding sweat on a steep ascent or cowering under an overhang, the Midgard is a premium, high-performance shell that lives up to the Commando heritage of its creators. Do check out the website for plenty of excellent articles and inspiration.
The Jöttnar Midgard comes in sizes S-XL and two colours. The SRP is £449 and it can be bought direct from Jöttnar UK with free delivery.
Disclosure – CGR reviewers and writers are never paid to provide a review and the website does not take advertising or link to affiliate sales. We are a bunch of keen climbers and travellers who accept sample products and offer an honest and independent review of the item.
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