Martini Hillclimb WB Hybrid Hooded Review

The Hillclimb WB Hybrid Hooded by Martini Sportswear, tested in the women’s version, is a technical jacket made from stretchy, breathable fabric, featuring a windproof front panel that offers effective protection during dynamic activities such as running, ski mountaineering and cycling.

Martini Sportswear is an Austrian company specialising in technical mountain clothing, with a strong focus on quality and a collection design that is understated and elegant.

The design of the Hillclimb is no exception and is designed to perform at its best on windy or damp days, as a layer to always have with you when the weather is unsettled.

Technical features of Martini Hillclimb WB Hybrid Hooded

• “JP.FEEL” fabric: 88% polyamide/nylon, 12% spandex, 100% polyamide
• Elasticated hems and hood
• Front zip
• 2 zipped pockets
• Integrated hood
• Windproof front panel made from recycled fabric
• DWR finish
• Fit: sporty
• Available sizes: XS–XXL, women’s
• Weight: 265 g (size S)
• Made in the EU
• List price: €269,90

Test mode

I put Martini’s Hillclimb WB Hybrid Hooded jacket through its paces between February and March, during spring ski touring trips in sunny but windy conditions and during trail running sessions on days with sudden changes in the weather and light rain.

It was worn both as a second layer over thermal base layers and as a third layer over a mid-layer, proving to be highly versatile in various set-ups.

Martini Hillclimb HB Hybrid Hooded on-site test

First impressions

It’s immediately clear that Martini Sportswear has a different style to many other mountain brands. First and foremost in its colours and design, which evoke the world of the most fashionable activewear. A style that will appeal to those who appreciate understated simplicity and a more elegant aesthetic.

But form is matched by substance, which is clearly evident in the quality of the materials and the hybrid constructionusing two fabrics, which gives the garment substance and structure.

Weight and packability

It is precisely this double-layer construction that makes the Hillclimb WB Hybrid Hooded a slightly more structured and bulky garment compared to other softshells.

In actual use, however, the weight is not a hindrance and the jacket proves to be well-balanced during active movement, especially in windy or wet conditions, where the windproof front panel really comes into its own.

The effect is more noticeable on the packed dimensions, which are not the most compact. Although it is possible to carry it in the waistband of trail running trousers, the Hillclimb is better suited to being stowed in a backpack.

Fabric and finishes

The hybrid construction combines a windproof front panel with a stretch, breathable fabric. Against the skin, the fabric feels soft and comfortable, without feeling restrictive.

The distinctive feature of the Hillclimb is that it has these two layers of fabric. The outer layer, which is windproof at the front, can be lifted up to form a small skirt over the inner layer, which hugs the body. This design is likely intended to improve breathability.

The cuffs, hood and hem of the jacket are finished with elasticated trim, which keeps the garment in place without the need for further adjustments. The elasticated cuffs are practical even you’re wearing a sports watch.

Pockets and adjustments

The jacket features two zipped side pockets that are spacious enough for small items such as smartphones, gloves or headbands.

The pockets are partially covered by the windproof panel. This is an original solution, which improves protection but makes access less immediate: to open the pockets, you need to lift the outer fabric.

There are no other adjustments: the fit is provided by the stretch fabric and the elasticated cuffs, hood and hem.

Wind protection and breathability

The Hillclimb WB Hybrid Hooded Jacket offers effective wind protection, making it particularly useful at high altitudes or during descents. The front windproof panel does its job well, minimising heat loss even when you’re sweating.

Breathability is one of the garment’s strongest points: even during intense activity, you don’t feel an excessive build-up of heat. Moisture management is very good and helps prevent the unpleasant ‘greenhouse effect’.

The DWR treatment allows you to cope with light drizzle and damp conditions without any problems; however, this is not a waterproof garment and is not designed to provide thermal insulation: protection from the cold is mainly linked to dynamic activity.

Features

This jacket proves to be a practical piece to always have with you during activities such as spring ski touring, fast-paced hiking and trail running, particularly in the mid-seasons.

The hybrid construction provides protection where needed without compromising breathability. And the fabric’s stretch ensures it’s always comfortable, whether you’re wearing a rucksack or not.

It is particularly useful during transitional phases, when moving from intense exertion to periods of exposure to the wind or changes in the weather.

The hood, featuring an elasticated hem, fits snugly over the head even when worn over caps or visors, providing effective protection without restricting visibility or movement.

Fit

Tested in size XS, the jacket offers a comfortable, close-fitting cut thanks to the fabric’s excellent stretch. It can be worn as either a second or third layer without restricting movement.

The cut is feminine and slightly fitted, contributing to good overall ergonomics. The soft fabric enhances comfort during prolonged wear.

Recommended for

The Hillclimb WB Hybrid Hooded Jacket is a versatile jacket, suitable for a range of outdoor activities such as trail running, hiking and ski mountaineering. It’s the classic piece to pack when the forecast predicts chilly temperatures with clouds and wind, or when sudden changes in temperature are expected.

It works best as a second or third layer during dynamic activities, thanks to its good breathability and wind protection. It is less suitable for those looking for a highly packable garment or one with significant thermal insulation, features which this garment does not offer.

Finally, the Hillclimb could be an interesting choice for those who appreciate understated style and want a jacket that is technically advanced yet stylish and understated in design.