Bergans Morgedal Anorak

The Morgedal “Anorak” (I think “smock” is a better tem for UK markets…) is a classic mountain, or ski-style smock with a retro look with a modern twist. It’s lightweight, comfortable and 100% practical for a host of outdoor pursuits.

It’s Epic!

Made from Epic Cotton, the Morgedal Anorak is a very tight woven 100% cotton that is not only durable, but lightweight (a large size Morgedal Anorak weighs about 800g), but as the fibres are encapsulated in a silicone treatment (silicone derived from sand, so no eco issues here). The fabric is highly water repellent and very breathable as the silicone is in the fibres, not as a coating applied after weaving.

In wear the Epic Cotton feels like, and looks like a plain cotton fabric.  In rain the fabric repels water which “beads up” and runs off better than a waxed cotton I compared it to in tests!  The treatment also reduces the fabric drying time when it does get wetted out – meaning a reduced chilling if you are wearing the Anorak when it gets wet – and helps repel dirt.  If you warm iron or tumble dry the fabric after washing, the water repellent quality is restored.

The manufacturers, Nextec, list the following claims for Epic Cotton:  “Rain proof, windproof, breathable, air permeable, retains body heat, quick drying, lightweight and packable, anti-bacterial, anti-mosquito, UV protection, durable and permanent, eco-safe and “dynamic breathability performing up to 3x greater than conventional weather protective technologies”,

To be fair, I cannot contradict any of these claims from my testing and I have been very impressed with the fabric!

Good Design

The ‘over the head’ style Anorak has a large and comfortable integral hood with a wired peak, an elasticated front drawcord with single hand-adjustable cord locks and Velcro fur for attaching a fur trim (not supplied) for Arctic weather as well as an elasticated volume adjuster with a single hand operation cord locks.

Properly adjusted, the hood fits well and moves well with the head, giving both protection and good vision. The front of the Anorak opens with a zip, about 20” long.  The zip is covered by a generous storm guard that closes with two Velcro tabs and a strong press-stud.