Gear Review: Montane Men’s Protium Full Zip Hooded Fleece
When I hear the word fleece it reminds me of being about 12 years old and the Sprayway or Berghaus fleece jackets that most kids my age wore as a bit of a fashion statement. Fast forward a ‘small’ number of years and I find myself reaching 40 years old and having a completely different understanding of what a fleece is. And more to the point why I need one.
These days there is so much choice when thinking about the various different layers to keep you comfortable on a hike in the mountains. The Montane Men’s Protium Hooded Fleece is certainly one of my go-to items when heading out. And not only in the hills – I often utilise my fleece when heading out to the pub or just to the shops.
My Verdict:
The Men’s Montane Protium Fleece is a really good piece of kit. Easy to stash away if not required and adds a layer of warmth when more layers are needed. I struggle with Montane fitting for my shape (this is more of a ‘me’ problem) rather than a design flaw but it does go into my thinking when purchasing any Montane clothing.
- Best for: Adding an additional layer a warmth (especially on early morning starts) or when stopping for a break.
- Price: £80
- Our rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(4/5)
Summary
A really good midweight mid-layer that has worn and washed very well – two years down the line it is still like new even though I wear it several times a week. Used both as part of a layering system for longer and colder walks but also as a stand alone outer layer for early morning starts in the warmer months. Reasonably priced at £80 with basic features but provides a strong performance on the hills.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good warmth-to-weight ratio | A little snug fitting for the ’rounder’ hikers like myself |
| Durable – has worn and washed really well | Not wind-proof |
| Reasonably priced as a more everyday layer rather than the more expensive more technical options | |
| Thermo Grid Technology |
Specification and Features
- Weight: 390g
- Thermo Grid Technology
- Tech Hood for snug fit under a helmet
- Full length YKK Natulon Vislon Recycled Zip
- 93% Recycled materials
Jump to: Design & Build • Durability • Value • Compared • Final Verdict
Design and Build
It is a relatively standard mid-weight fleece and has a Thermo Grid brushed back on the inside of the fabric, which is designed to manage moisture and regulate heat. It definitely adds a good layer of warmth for cooler conditions.
Durability
I purchased the Protium fleece two-years ago and wear it regularly (several times a week) for both everyday use as well as hiking. It has worn really well and still resembles a new fleece which I’ve been really pleased with. As with all mid-layers it often gets stuffed into my rucksack and I’ve found it to be very packable and doesn’t take up too much room.
Value for Money
The Protium fleece in my opinion is really good value for money — a technical fleece that has been used extensively and still resembled a new fleece all for £80.00. If you are looking for a more best-in-class type of mid-layer then the Protium isn’t the way to go but for everyday use and day hiking I’ve found it fits the bill perfectly.
Competitor Comparison
| Brand and Style | Weight | Spec | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Patagonia Men’s R1® Fleece Pullover Hoody | 289g | Polartec® Power Grid™ | £120 | Check price |
Final Verdict
- Comfort: 4/5
- Weather Resistance: 3/5
- Weight: 4/5
- Value: 5/5
This is a great fleece for everyday use and for single day hikes — adding a layer of warmth and packs away nicely. Not the most technical fleece — you would be looking at more premium fleeces for that but this Protium fleece certainly has a space in my hiking kit.
If the full zip isn’t for you, there is a half zip pull over version, or if you don’t want multiple hoods causing you issues Montane have a version with no hood so the choice really is yours on what suits you best.
This fleece has performed really well over a variety of different weather conditions. From walks in the Peak District to hiking the Scottish mountains and pretty much everything in between. I’ve also been impressed with the durability of the fleece – it has washed really well and has not started to bobble. It also dries fairly quickly which is a bonus.
Tested by Mike Richardson — field-tested in the Peak District, Snowdonia and Scotland between January 2024 – January 2026. This product was purchased in full by Mike. We never accept payment for positive reviews.
