The Eclipse Hooded Zip-T has become one of our most well known pieces of design, an uncompromising and specialist layer that’s seen on climbers and mountaineers all over the world. For most of our team of climbers it’s a constant in their clothing system for cold and serious routes where each item has to perform exactly as required to earn its place.
The most obvious feature is the hood and collar design which was developed to allow all the separate protective elements to be used individually or together in the worst conditions. The hood or face covering can be comfortably used alone and crucially the face protection can be pulled down without undoing your helmet strap before a strenuous crux. With the hood and collar up it replaces the need for a balaclava as well as reducing the need for a neck gaiter to be carried. The offset front zip ensures a comfortable fit around the face.
Whilst it performs brilliantly over a thin base layer it works especially well next to the skin on stop, start climbing days in cold conditions where managing moisture is critical to comfort. The Italian made, gridded PontetortoⓇ Tecnostretch 187 fabric is the finest of its type. With excellent warmth for its minimal weight and, crucially, a rapid drying time, it’s also durable enough for regular hand washing in base camps on long expeditions. A longer cut tucks in to prevent cold spots and extended cuffs with thumb loops protect the wrists as a vital part of keeping your hands warm.