Field Notes: “Innovation that lets you connect with nature in maximum comfort.” That’s the outgrowth of Mishmi Takin founder Kapil Dev Singh’s water-soaked vision born in the eastern Himalayas. Active Junky testers took Garamba for a whirlwind tour of South American and U.S. backcountry destinations to see if Mr. Singh had clarity or merely hypothermic visions in the Mishmi Hills. Score one for insight as the Garamba is, without question, the most wind-resistant shell tested in the last 36 months. eVent 2.5-layer laminate is transformed into a bull-headed jacket (see logo for the hidden wordplay), a full-function piece that’s most like a “best of” hybrid. Long-running pit zips amp up heat dispersion during maximum output, then slide easily shut (as do the other zippers) for added protection. Hood (with soft chin guard), hem and ½” hook-and-loop cuff closures seem nothing out of the ordinary. Nor do the taped and sealed, high-position handwarmer pockets accessing heavy-duty mesh pouches. Bonus points for the face and neck perforated panels that have little negative impact on overcoming adverse weather.
Pros: 20,000/20,000 waterproof breathability handle desperate outside weather along with internal perspiration, good value for the right usage scenario
Cons: Standard shoulder design misses an opportunity for freer movement, service and warranty support untested, hood too small for most helmets
Tester Comments: “Trim and athletic with room for slightly larger torsos or a moderate midlayer, Garamba’s brim added enough protection to fight back in blowing rain. Still unable to determine the cause of the wind performance, but I’ll take it any day – or at night in gale force winds.”
Key Attribute: Protection
Best For: Windy (what a surprise), wet and warm conditions show Garamba at its best, with climbing applications limited by hood volume that limits helmet use
Key Features:
Weight: 12 ounces
Sizes: Small - XL
Material: eVent waterproof material