Fjallraven Keb Eco-Shell – Recycled Alpine Protection

Looking for a durable backcountry ski jacket and want to be good to the environment? Then read on to find out more about the Fjallraven Keb Eco Shell Jacket.

Eco-Shell – good for the environment and good for protection

Eco-Shell is a 100% recycled polyester fabric.  During production, AND during shipping, all emissions are climate compensated.  You can feel good about that!  The Eco-Shell material is durable and has a lot of stretch to it.  I love fabrics that stretch and are not noisy.  The Keb jacket delivers on both of those fronts. It is also great protection at 30k waterproof and 26k breathable.  Outstanding performance from a recycled, 3 layer WPB jacket.

Alpine design

The Keb Eco-Shell is made for the mountains.  This is apparent from many angles.  There are no hand pockets on this jacket.  That could turn some people off from making this there all around waterproof shell.  For alpine use with a backpack, this is ideal.  There are two very large sized chest pockets, each with an elastic pocket inside them.

During backcountry ski and splitboarding, I was able to get my skins in the pockets.  That is an advantageous design feature for many.  The fit is also more trim to keep excess fabric from getting in the way of your mission.   The sleeves are longer and can go over under cuff gloves.  Or you can sinch the cuffs down and use gauntlet style gloves.

Helmet-compatible hood

The hood is helmet compatible for ski and snowboarding.  It is also one of the few hoods that also functions very well when not using a helmet.  It synchs down well and keeps water from getting in around the face.  There is a semi-stiff brim as well.  Great for directing water off a hat or face.  Truly, one of the best hoods I have tested this year.

Stretch

Did I mention the stretch yet?  I love it.  Seriously, I can not stand crinkly and restrictive fabrics.  Besides stretchability, the fabric is quite.  Something that I cherish in the backcountry. I love being quiet and touring up a mountain.  Being present in the environment and pretending to be a snow ninja.  Nothing takes away from that more than noise.  If you value quietness and pliability, then the Eco-Shell will treat you well.

Aesthetics

The Keb Eco-Shell is a really good looking jacket.  It fits great for active mountain use and looks good apres as well.  If it had hand pockets, it would be a year-round choice for many people.  The leather artic fox logo and leather zipper pulls are a nice touch.  In an era of bright jackets, the Keb Eco-Shell provides a more subtle look.

Overall impressions on the Keb Eco-Shell Jacket

I think the jacket is a great choice for anyone looking for a strong, stretchy, waterproof jacket to use with a backpack.  Whether it is winter alpine pursuits, resort skiing, backcountry travel or summer hiking – the jacket will serve you well.  I feel really good about the fact that the jacket is made of recycled fabric and that Fjallraven goes above and beyond to offset the carbon footprint during the creation and shipping of this garment.  Good on them and good for all of us. MSRP $500

See also –

Patagonia Powder Bowl Jacket – Recycled Gore-Tex Protection