As bastions of functional sportswear, Peak Performance have got a few things right over the years. Most recently, their iPhone App helps you locate, download and share maps, slope statuses and snow forecasts from your favourite ski resorts. In addition, working alongside Henrik Windstedt in the design of their active line helped to reemphasise a commitment to great looking, high performance apparel. With big aims in active clothing, Peak Performance are one to watch as their two labels, HIPE and R&D stamp a quality product on shelves throughout the UK.

Peak Performance’s Target Jacket summarises the brand well, combining the functionality of a multi-purpose wind proof shell with fashionable design and comfortable material. Although this jacket would suit a whole range of outdoor applications, I tested the Target’s compatibility in a trip to the Swiss Alps in Spring conditions.

The jacket performed remarkably well over a baselayer; as a lightweight shell it was more manoeuvrable than other ski jackets whilst retaining enough warmth over the baselayer. In addition to the warm and flexibility of the jacket, it also aided excellent waterproofing against the snow, and contained an inner zip where a set of Peak Performance pants could be attached to ensure no water could leak further down into an outdoor outfit in deep snow.

However, being an all purpose jacket, the Target lacked some of the functionality that regular ski jackets enjoy. Although the jacket has three chest pockets, there is no sleeve zip for the ski pass to be held in, so it was kept with my camera in the front breast pocket – not ideal when reaching for the camera in a rush. The hood also seemed almost oversized; while it fit well over a helmet when walking on foot in the rain, the hood drooped over my eyes. This, in addition to a stiff-ish front zip, added to the hassle of redressing when leaving from a bar or restaurant.

Despite these small flaws, it was an extremely comfortable and adaptable jacket that looks great on both the high street or whistling down the slopes.

Useful Information

• UK RRP £395 | US MSRP
• Available in Men’s Only
• Peak Performance on Environment, Ethics and CSR
• Download Peak Performance Trail Maps
• Dealer Locator