The Spitz jacket has long been a mainstay of the Haglofs range, and is one of those flagship models that sits at the top of their range. Three-layer GoreTex Pro offers light weight, durability and the best performance (waterproofing and breathability) of all the GoreTex products. Haglofs list the Spitz as suitable for hiking, climbing, mountaineering, skiing, snowboarding and lifestyle.
Our first minor criticism is the length. Haglofs say it is cut slightly shorter to avoid interfering with a harness. It's a bit too long to sit above a harness, but it does have a two-way zipper which makes this point moot. On the other hand it may be a bit too short for some skiers; but anyone wearing bib pants won't be too concerned about snow ingress. Given the long list of suitable activities, the neither-here-nor-there length does seem a strange choice.
However, in all other aspects it is like a suit of armour; excellent coverage from the high neckline, a voluminous hood, and reassuringly burly face fabric combine to make you feel you could take on anything.
For the traveller it has pros and cons; the latest GoreTex fabrics make the jacket even more minimal and packable, which is handy, as it's not the kind of jacket you'd want to wear on the plane, or off the hill. The burly fabric is also very stiff which reduces its versatility for the traveller. But if you want no compromise in weather proofing, Haglofs continue to ensure the Spitz is at the top of the range.
