From NASA to the high seas: we test the 853g Meris jacket. Can this ultra-light, flap-less design actually handle a full offshore storm?
Canadian company Mustang Survival was launched in 1967 and made its name with the Float Coat – the first wet weather jacket to feature built-in closed cell foam to help keep wearers afloat if they fell overboard. Since then it has gone on to design clothing for NASA, US Navy Seals and the Canadian Coastguard as well as leisure boaters.
The Meris Waterproof Jacket is available in red or navy Blue from XS to XXL. Surprisingly, given its price and heritage, it is by far the lightest and least bulky of the jackets on test, weighing just 853g – almost 400g less than the Henri Lloyd Elite. This a deliberate choice to make it as comfortable and flexible as possible, without compromising its performance or durability.
It is made from a top-spec 3-layer Marine Spec BP waterproof, breathable fabric with fully taped seams and an Aquaseal main zip. This negates the need for any storm flaps inside or out, reducing weight and bulk. It survived our pressure-washer test without any leaks.
The two waist cargo pockets are zipped and unlined, as are the two chest/lifejacket strap height handwarmers. There are no internal pockets.
We found the double adjustable cuffs with neoprene, rather than rubber, seals to be the most comfortable and easiest to adjust of all. And we particularly liked the well structured hood with clear side panels and a thin but very comfortable foldaway faceguard. However, the printed reflectors seem rather small and prone to wear compared to the plastic ones.
This was the most comfortable and flexible jacket of the group but it seemed short on features for the price and it will be interesting to see if it proves as durable over the long term.
Specifications: Fabric: 3-layer Marine Spec BP | Sizes: XS-2XL | Weight: 853g | Pockets: 2 cargo, 2 chest (unlined)
Pros
- Lightest and most flexible offshore jacket on test | Neoprene wrist seals are exceptionally comfortable | Clean, minimalist design with no Velcro to snag
Cons
- High price for a jacket with fewer features | Printed reflectors are prone to wear
