Test: the Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia

I have been testing the Columbia Labyrinth Loop insulated jacket for several months now. By this time, temperatures have managed to drop significantly, and I have had the opportunity to take it with me on more than one trip in both autumn and winter conditions. How this model performs in practice?

Labyrinth Loop Hooded Jacket is a winter jacket with synthetic filling. The model uses Omni-Heat Reflective technology – its presence is evidenced by the gold lining, a wealth of shiny dots tightly covering the inside of the jacket. Don’t let the first impression fool you: the party finish is supposed to retain the heat generated during exercise and insulate against the cold.

Heat and moisture

It must be admitted that the jacket is warm. Synthetic down, 100% recycled polyester is used as insulation. Thanks to it, at several degrees above zero, just a thin layer underneath is enough to feel thermal comfort. The Labyrinth Loop model has also become my natural choice when I’m planning a skitouring trip or a winter walk on a mountain trail. Combined with thermal underwear and a warm midlayer, the jacket is a sufficient barrier even in 10-degree frosts.

Unlike natural down, synthetic insulation does not soak and dries quickly. I appreciated it during the uncertain autumn weather, when I was met with light rain on the trail. The jacket dried quickly, and moisture did not get inside.

Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia – Omni-Heat Reflective technology (photo. outdoormagazine.pl)

Omni-Heat Reflective technology not only traps moisture from the outside, but in positive temperatures and during intense exertion, unfortunately, it also holds the one produced by our body. However, it is important to remember that this is a winter model – in sub-zero temperatures, even with greater physical exertion, I have not experienced the problem of overheating.

Outer material

Since I happen to trudge through brush or hike through the woods in the dark, I expect the outerwear to be resistant to damage. The manufacturer ensures that the Labyrinth Loop model is finished with a nylon material of exceptional durability. And indeed, the fabric works great – despite strenuous “efforts” I did not manage to pull or damage the material. This is undoubtedly a great asset for an outer layer that is supposed to serve us for many seasons.

Test: Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia (fot. outdoormagazine.pl)

While the jacket is durable and solidly made, it remains very pleasant to the touch all the time. Both the interior and exterior of the Labyrinth Loop are kind to the skin, making me often reach for this jacket when giving up my previous favorite layers.

Cut and details

Another advantage of the jacket is its cut. The model is very well tailored and has a great fit. In addition, the cut of the jacket has been thoughtfully designed to provide the best possible thermal insulation. The extended back protects your body while cycling, and the high guard integrated into the roomy hood perfectly wraps your neck and head. Garda lets you forgo the scarf or shawl. Pleasant fabric and a chin protector plus a built-in design are more than enough. Elastic cuffs are used at the bottom of the sleeves to comfortably hug the wrists.

Test: the Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia (fot. outdoormagazine.pl)

The model works well with the user’s movement – the jacket is comfortable both during physical activity and while camping.

There are two zippered pockets in the jacket, and their interior is lined with pleasant fabric. In addition, it features one interior pocket. The main zipper runs smoothly and smoothly thanks to the reinforced inner bar.

Test: the Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia (fot. outdoormagazine.pl)

The Labyrinth Loop model is available in several color variations. Personally, I have the opportunity to test the black color, which is an excellent choice, both in the field and in the city.

Packing

Labyrinth Loop Hooded Jacket is a fairly lightweight model – size XS weighs 435 g. For a synthetic insulation and durable outer material, the weight is not too bad. With the warmth it provides, the jacket is also quite easy to pack, even into a small backpack.

Summary

After testing the jacket in low temperatures (down to -10 degrees), I can without hesitation describe it as very warm. It performs well during winter trekking or ski touring. Passes the test at very low temperatures and moderate exercise. For some, the jacket will not be a good choice during intense activity – with a slight frost there is no assurance that we will not sweat, and then the moisture wicking to the outside may be insufficient, which will undoubtedly prove to be a problem. However, it is worth remembering that during this type of activity we carry a warm jacket most of the time in the backpack, and we use it during stops – in such a role Labyrinth Loop Hooded Jacket will work perfectly.

Test: the Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia (fot. outdoormagazine.pl)

Personally, I appreciate when gear is versatile and usable in a variety of conditions. The durability and warmth provided by such a lightweight and handy model make me eager to take the jacket on future excursions – whether skydiving, climbing or trekking. Poor moisture wicking is a significant downside, but keep in mind that we are unlikely to use this type of jacket during intense exercise.

Wiola Imiolczyk

The manufacturer’s description of the technology and collection can be found here:

Test: the Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia (photo. outdoormagazine.pl) Test: the Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia (photo. outdoormagazine.pl) Test: the Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia (fot. outdoormagazine.pl) Test: the Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia (photo. outdoormagazine.pl) Test: the Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia (photo. outdoormagazine.pl) Test: the Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia (fot. outdoormagazine.pl) Test: the Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia (fot. outdoormagazine.pl) Test: the Labyrinth Loop jacket by Columbia (photo. outdoormagazine.pl)