Fjallraven Jackets Reviewed - Skogso vs Kaipak vs Vidda Pro Jacket

[@JonesJoni]

Here in Finland in Fjällräven specialized store they said that reason for G-1000 is so versatile is that you can apply the greenland wax in parts that you need to have more water resistance, for example shoulders, hood, sleeves. And then the other areas where you want the fabric to breathe more then just leave those untreated. Which actually makes sense, as fully waterproof fabrics never breath enough for hiking. So these Fjällräven jackets you can treat to your own liking.

[@jonaslinell]

Tak!

[@kayasper6081]

I bought the Vidda Pro jacket (without wool insulation, just the one you show) about three years ago. I wear it extensively most of the year. Very versatile and compatible jacket. Very satisfied with it, as with my other Fjällräven garment. Thanks for your video.

[@warrenfontana1325]

Hadn't even seen this video until now, but had already bought the Skogsö and seems we both came to the same conclusion about it being a very good fit. Happy days.

[@davemcdave2169]

Would completely agree with you sir. Skogso all the way. Combine with a Montane Prism on the inside, bingo. These are my 2 jackets for 80% of the year.

[@hazarddavid6987]

Kaipak for me...bought it this morning in Oslo, Norway. Quite versatile in my view.

[@Nick1210100]

Hi there-I don't think I have posted here before, your advice and insight is always much appreciated ! I have lived in Mid-Wales (so lots of rain!) for nearly three years now, and got the Vidda Pro Jacket when I first got here(from Gibb Outdoors in Brecon-nice little shop). I was hoping that it would arrive more waterproof, it's OK for a little while but then starts to let more water through. So I started using wax on it, did this a few times, still not great, then did the same as you advise, using a Gore-Tex shell when the rain is intense or persistent enough to warrant it. I don't usually splash out like this, but I got a Mountain Equipment Lhotse jacket. I got the Vidda Pro, for it's breathability, and the Lhotse jacket is Gore-Tex Pro, which is supposedly more breathable than ordinary Gore-Tex. I should add at this point that I am pretty old but have resisted Gore-Tex clothing my whole life. I'm not sure if I believe the hype:). The addition of the Lhotse jacket compliments the Vidda Pro so well, that I can now use the Vidda Pro much more-it gets a bit wet and cold around these parts, I'd be foolish not to use the Lhotse. The good thing is, because the Lhotse only comes out when needed, I'm hoping it lasts a very long time. I would love Fjallraven to bring out a Welsh version, maybe impregnate the fibres with wax before they make the fabric, and then a few more times before and after seaming. Did I say it gets wet here ? :)

[@justinsenryu7308]

Did you ever use a Barbour or any other waxed jacket like that? I'd be really interested to hear how the G-1000 material compares. Thanks!

[@warnersmith1344]

Thanks for doing this side by side review. I went with the Vidda Pro, which was next to impossible to find! I think I bought the last medium one in the USA. Seriously, I searched for DAYS before I found one last medium at a shop in Colorado. You're right, it's a beast of an outer layer. Matches the Vidda Pro pants.

[@tubulzr]

Love my Skogso winter jacket. Superb garment. Like my VR pants, made of G-1000 and G-1000 light. Mind you, the Greenland wax works perfect to make the fabric almost 100% windproof and somewhat to fairly rain resistant (depending on the amount of wax) but it's far, and I mean far, from waterproof. You just cannot wax it towards 'Goretex' level, that would require insane amounts of wax. But for my every winterday use, it's one of the best jackets I've ever bought. I'm pretty sure you'll enjoy yours for a long time.

[@SimonHergott]

Gortex loses it's rain proofness eventually anyway. I'm far more impressed with waxed polly cotton than I've ever been of gortex. Do you have any thoughts on the Skogso's long term usage? Is the ripstop g1000 lite holding up alright? I've heard complaints about it and wondering if it's worth getting one to replace my 10 year old soft shell from arcteryx

[@Darrenski]

Im 6' 1" and 11.5 stone and the vidda pro medium fits perfectly. Most of my other jackets are in large, if that helps. Id also recommend only putting the thinnest layer of the GL wax as you can so it keeps the flexibility. Ive only ever put 2 thin layers on max and ive never got wet in it. And yeah i got mine from trekkit, after Saul there advised me, correctly to go with the medium.

[@IntoTheMystery13]

I bought the padded version and love it.

[@BackpackingUK]

I got that after, I’ve worn it so much this year.

[@EarthlyChimera]

I have 2 Vidda Pro Jackets. A Black and a Dark olive. I love dem 😊

[@lars-eriklindquist727]

Bought my Skogö jacket about 6-7 years ago and that is the jacket use the most of all my fjällräven jackets. I really like the how it fits it is slimmed but I can still use my from last year new KEB PADDED HOODIE M under or over it, I really recommend this combination for a long day in the forest when around -5 to -15 combined with wool layers.

[@pauledwards499]

Can't beat Fjall Raven, I bought my first jacket, a Nordi, in 2008 and wish I'd never sold it. My latest is an olive Skogso, excellent bit of gear but it's better to wash proof them rather than wax them, waxing makes them stiff as a board. Got a small collection of beanies aswell, got to admit I'm a Fjall Raven addict and can't get enough of it

[@BackpackingUK]

Thanks for sharing. What do you use to wash them?

[@pauledwards499]

@@BackpackingUK I machine washed mine with a detergent and used one of those Nik Wax type waterproofers that you add to the wash, much better finish than the wax which makes them too stiff

[@325iaddict]

You will then have noticed that it isn't waterproof, whatever you may try. I'll tell you a nice secret: buy a Yupik parka or, if you can live with a fixed hood and NO(!) draw cords, the now discontinued Polar guide. Both have the Hydratic layer inside, making them 100% waterproof.

[@pauledwards499]

@@325iaddict Been looking at the Yupik, slightly out of my budget but there are some great second hand deals online so i'm very tempted, great looking coat too

[@325iaddict]

@@pauledwards499 Just be patient and look at Ebay regularly. There WILL come a day, your size and favorite color pops up... and by then, you should have saved enough money to just snag it away those last 4 seconds, in front of the eyes of all other bidders ;-) The looks is just a personal thing. Some people think it's ugly and like a "garbage bag" around their bodies, they prefer sleek looking parkas like the Canada Goose Chateau parka. Well... let's wait until the first good rain shower and let's see who is happy after that :-)

[@M1_K3Y]

I went with the Abisko lite trekking jacket - downside lacks extra pockets, upside is extra stretch and breathable - I agree all are excellent, choice depends on most common uses.

[@TheMoistDonuts]

Have you used the abisko as a mid layer? Debating on buying it to pair with my north face jacket but idk how breathable it is.

[@M1_K3Y]

I haven’t used it as a mid layer, but I would consider with like a vest layer over it, fleece or puffer. I run hot so if the light jacket on it’s own is not warm enough I would go with a t-shirt/ base layer right to a light puffer jacket. In my layer system I would then put a storm/rain shell over the puffer for maximum warmth but that’s the most I would need. I get too warm in a full parka style jacket.

[@TheMoistDonuts]

@@M1_K3Y I see! Thx for the info

[@loqu]

I have the Green Vidda Pro wool lined and it's perfect for the climate here in Sweden. I don't even have to layer on the coldest days and almost a year later it looks brand new.

[@BackpackingUK]

I must admit, I’d love one of their wool-lined jackets. Makes a lot of sense to me.

[@Darrenski]

​@@BackpackingUKI was thinking the same but I've always had an aversion to linings as they tend to clump up, although in the fjallraven I'm sure it's more like a layer of fabric. But a decebt fleece under the regular pro vidda is just as good and gives the option of layering down if like here in the uk its wet but not cold. If I was in Sweden however I'd probably go with the wool lining just for the convenience

[@dundalkholly]

Nice review. I have both skogso and Kiapak in size medium, I’m 175cm (5’9”). Skog fits me perfectly with just a light top under, the kiapak I can layer bigger as it’s much more boxy. I don’t like the vida pro as it’s just too much for me. I have 3 colours in skogs I like it that much (all bought on sale) a proper all year, nearly all weather jacket. Long sleeves are great for the bike and if cold can cover your hands.

[@BackpackingUK]

Thanks for sharing 👍

[@reddwhite4376]

Thanks for such a useful video!

[@BackpackingUK]

Glad it was helpful!

[@paulbennet121]

Thanks. That’s just what I needed to know. Made my decision easy

[@RaP22]

I’ve have the skogso jacket coming on 5 years and it still in great condition. My day to day and I’ll put the fjallraven Keb lite padded jacket underneath in cold weather which makes it so waterproof

[@325iaddict]

Waterproof? The Skogso jacket? Impossible... it doesn't have ANY waterproof layer in it. Or did they chnage that? As long as you cannot find the word "Hydratic" sowhere embroidered in the outer fabric of the jacket, it is NOT waterproof. And to add: waxing it doesn't make it waterproof, as some people might think, and some sellers will tell you.

[@mellomojared]

He is right

[@getsmart3701]

Excellent review sir, really very good. Thank you for it.

[@4BB4S]

Hi Andy, good comparison. Did you try the Keb jacket, loads of stretch on that one. I picked up the Montt on Vinted recently, great jacket, 9 pockets, removable hood, draw cord to tighten waist & middle of the jacket.

[@BackpackingUK]

I love the Keb but it has no hand warmer pockets so it’s a big no from me 😢

[@4BB4S]

@@BackpackingUK Yeah I know what you mean. I tried it in the Fjallraven store in Manchester and they explained the side zips are designed to open directly into your inside layer. Not totally sold on that as you either need to open 2 zips to get to what's in your pocket, or your inside layer has no zips and things could fall out!

[@XIIICorinthians]

I bought the Keb jacket and can say- it is not an everyday jacket. It is best suited for trekking since much of the design rests with one having a backpack on. It’s a great jacket, just not for the city.

[@JockyT1]

For me, 166cm, 65kg, the Kaipak was the best fit and value. The fabric underarms is a great feature. G-1000 is no good in wet weather. By the way, never pay anywhere near full price for Fjallraven - plenty of discounts around.

[@mellomojared]

Where please ???

[@JockyT1]

@@mellomojared are you in the UK?

[@mellomojared]

@@JockyT1 No:/ Hawaii USA

[@JockyT1]

@@mellomojared well you may be out of luck? Try Google and see what is available…

[@SimonHergott]

Thanks for the reviews. Super helpful. Was wondering what your long term thoughts are on the Skogso? Is it holding up to wear and tear? I've heard some people complain about the quality of the ripstop g1000 material. It's a shame they don't make the skogso with full g1000...

[@BackpackingUK]

I still wear it. With hindsight I wish I’d got the padded version.

[@SimonHergott]

@@BackpackingUK Why the padded version?

[@BackpackingUK]

@@SimonHergott I rarely wear jumpers and fleece’s. I tend to put jackets over t-shirts. The standard versions of all these jackets don’t really provide any warm at all. They’re more about protection.

[@Gieszkanne]

I had the Skogsö and I liked it a lot but after just one year the sleeves starts to wear off and even little holes starts to appear. It was the area where the fabric of the sleeves rub against the fabric of the torso. It was so obviously wear that FR even took it back. I think the lite version of the G 1000 isnt durable at all.Keep an eye on yours how it develop!

[@BackpackingUK]

I’ll beat that in mind, I’ll make sure I’m not too rough with it. It’s certainly not as solid as the Vidda Pro!

[@325iaddict]

That goes for ALL jackets made out of a cottom mix. Even a 1500 Euro Canada Goose parka wears at that same rate. If you would like to have a more durable jacket, make sure it's a 100% nylon or polyester jacket!!

[@Gieszkanne]

@@325iaddict That is NOT normal. I had a M65 Parka also made from 65/35 polycotton. It even was a cheap one not from Alphaindustries. I wore it for 10 years. Spring and autumn and in winter with the liner. It was still good after 10 years. I just stoped wearing it because I wanted something new different. Wear marks even holes after only one year is not normal at all.

[@325iaddict]

@@Gieszkanne well... it IS normal. Compared to a nylon or polyester jacket, a cotton mix jacket IS prone to wear, no doubt about it. BUT: if it is a real problem, depends on the user. Some people just constantly rub their sleeves against the body of the jacket - here, the jacket wears out VERY quickly (holes can start to develop within the FIRST year of wearing, which happened to somebody I know wih his Canada Goose Chilliwack jacket) while with other users, who do not rub the sleeves against their body, it can last years and years - like with you.

[@Gieszkanne]

@@325iaddict The M65 is wider so the sleeves rub even more or just es well. I dont had this heavy wear marks on any of my jackets ever. Not even made 100% from cotton. And 65% is quite a high % of polyester. Why do you think that just 35% more so 100% polyester keep up much better. That is one of the main points of polycotton. To make it more durable. What you wrote makes no sense at all. Just get over it that Fjällräven has some bad quality and get rid of these stupid excuses.

[@user-nw2si7hu3u]

Have got a ridiculous fjallraven collection and I just love every single jacket they’ve ever made they’re all so versatile and well made and versatile and tough use them in the city and hiking with packs on and never have to worry about damaging them like w my Arcteryx or other gore Tex even if they’re not waterproof st all. For every other purpose they’re the first choice. The original Keb jackets are the best w the stretch mesh backs over all.

[@freyasworn2600]

nice framing for the shot mate

[@cristobalanjel5228]

hi there, great review. Quick question: are those black or dark grey? thanks!

[@BackpackingUK]

Dark grey!

[@cristobalanjel5228]

@@BackpackingUK thanks, mate!

[@Rashard_D]

@Backpacking UK Have you had any zipper problems? I’m considering getting the the Skogos

[@BackpackingUK]

None so far 👍

[@nickbakis1553]

Great comparison. I have the Skogso and was looking to buy the Kaipak or Vidda Pro as well. The Kaipak neck collar looks too loose and not as protective as the Skogso, so it's out. What about the Vidda Pro collar? Is it as protective as the Skogso?

[@BackpackingUK]

Personally, I think the necks / collars are very similar. Just be aware the Vidda Pro is much larger in the body, it may even be worth sizing down if you are slim.

[@iainmasterton2]

I’ve got the Skogso. Very nice. But like all Fjall Raven jackets they are designed for long armed skinny types.

[@Kadaf1]

This or the padded version of the Skogso ?

[@BackpackingUK]

If I was buying again, I’d just buy the padded version.

[@xxgg]

What year models are these? Skogso look different than mine. My Skogso is size Large, my chest is around 40 inch, pants waist is 34 inch, and Skogso fit loose, but I bought it layer base layer + thick sweater. Medium would have been snug. I do remember trying on Keb jacket in medium and it felt too snug around arm pit & waist. One important characteristic of Skogso is that it has longer arm cut than other. Two way zippers are a must for outdoor jackets. One think to note... Vidda Pro does wear larger than other Jackets compared. To me first two are more of trekking jacket where as Vidda Pro is more of outdoor jacket, thus more pockets. Now if you actually do want to be able to use all those pockets in Vidda pro you will regreat wearing a more fitted size as you will not be able to utilize the all the pockets or it'll be uncomfortable. I personally wear Vidda Pro vented pants in size EU 50 and it fit but most of the pockets really become useless as putting anything in makes everything too tight when in motion/bending, etc.. As for the host, I think size of your Vidda Pro is proper if you were to actually utilize the pockets. If not,,, I would say wear other jackets with less amount of pockets. I personally love Skogso the best for all the design differences you have mentioned as well. BUT I would like to own a another one in size medium for when I do not need to wear thicker layers inside but still want a jacket.

[@BackpackingUK]

They’re all 2022 models. Fjallraven have introduced a G1000 Eco Fabric used in a lot of their 2023 models. However, I’m unsure if there is any real difference, maybe it’s the manufacturing process 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@chrisu.k9307]

Hello 👋🏼 I’m leaning towards buying the skogso jacket. Would this jacket be durable enough to walk through thick pine Forrest without ripping? Also, I hear the sizing is larger, i.e large feels like XL. I generally wear Xl but after hearing this Im unsure about buying XL.

[@HyliAir]

You say all the jackets are size small but the information on the video says they all size medium. The Skogso fits you the best.

[@BackpackingUK]

They are all size small. Jackets like the Vidda Pro fit like a medium / large but it’s actually a small.

[@gogadanature]

vidapro is the best personally, good video . claps

[@MareckPetit]

Are these black or dark grey?

[@BackpackingUK]

Dark Grey 👍

[@MareckPetit]

@@BackpackingUK thanks do they match close with the black vidda pro trousers?

[@Foxtrottangoabc]

They look great jackets , similar principle and material to brit army smocks . Just wear them all day rain wind or shine and will dry on the move

[@Gieszkanne]

Yes from Arktis you can get Polycotton smocks that are a bit like the Vidda Pro but for the half of the price.

[@Foxtrottangoabc]

@@Gieszkanne will check it out thanks

[@davidhale1568]

Yep the Skoso is first choice, Gotta say that applying Greenland wax to my Fjallraven jackets never made much difference to the water resistant qualities.

[@DaemonViews]

Got to agree with you. I did a 2 layer on my Barents pro and didn't notice a difference except it became cardboard.

[@z0uLess]

I would rather try a ventile anorak if wearing cotton ... and most high end durable jackets have way too many pockets and features which brings up the weight. Some have rubber bands which I dont see the point of on a jacket that is supposed to be durable.

[@BackpackingUK]

I find I feel uncomfortably hot in an anorak 🥵 I can’t seem to regulate my temperature properly. Unzipping a side does naff all too! They look great though and I love the big pocket (with side access too).

[@sebulban]

3 best but Keb jacket is not included 😅 Tip. It’s he best jacket for hiking that you can find. No matter what time of year you are hiking

[@BackpackingUK]

I just wish it had hand warmer pockets 😩

[@sebulban]

Those could be good but I never used hand warmer pockets on a jacket this type. Instead you can stuff any mittens in those gorgeous stretchy and huge Napoleon pockets :) @@BackpackingUK

[@saber1able]

I would go with the Vidda Pro jacket, it would match my Vidda Pro trousers.

[@BackpackingUK]

It's a really cool jacket, so many pockets!

[@koolerking440]

I'd be wearing a medium Skogso, would I need to go to a small if went with the Kaipak or Vidda Pro (im short so can't go too long on the length). Thanks

[@BackpackingUK]

Definitely for the Vidda Pro but not 100% sure for the Kaipak (maybe not?).

[@markatchison9974]

I have the Fjallraven G1000 trousers (excellent quality) but decided against the jackets, simply because I prefer the simplicity & price of Gortex material.

[@BackpackingUK]

I only use Goretex trousers in the rain as waterproof over-trousers otherwise I constantly sweat.

[@psychocyclonus6909]

Fjallraven eco shell is far more environmentally friendly than Gore tex. Although it is hugely expensive. Best warerproof jacket I ever bought.

[@nickbakis1553]

Goretex doesn't really breathe (despite what marketing wants you to believe) and can be quite expensive. Love my Skogso jacket and wear it most of the time - I only wear my goretex pro jacket when pouring or for skiing

[@J-Dogg-wt1hp]

legendary or not the g 1000 . Can i get a jacket that is waterproof and windproof that breaths ie: pit zips back vent flaps . The jackets look great but if i am in the backcountry and i am in a downpour i don't want to become a wet sewer rat . Even if i look like a really good sewer rat with one of these on . Anyhow moving from British Columbia in the fraser valley where it rains so much even in the winter 90 percent of the time it is rain that falls . And moving to Manitoba where i don't need be worried so much . And where it snows in the winter . So i would probably buy one of these when i make the move.

[@craig3401]

Not sure I get these jackets surely a softshell jacket would do the same thing as these and at a lot less price

[@davidoconnor9288]

I have quite a few trousers which are great except for adding different colour panels to the rear and knees. I bought two of these jackets and returned them, Ridiculous price for what you receive.

[@alexhigh6907]

Their quality jackets. I've had similar priced jackets nowhere near as good quality so their in the correct price range. The wax is a different process to Goretex. Better for the environment. Just a better jacket all round

[@richardsutton6742]

Skogso for me too

[@BackpackingUK]

🙌

[@richardsracingmad]

Out of those Skogso….I have a Singi winter parka, it is worth the money I paid in the sale at Cotswold £180. I also have a Craghoppers parka, £17 off Amazon, should have been about £45, that was areal bargain, but I’m afraid that the Fjallraven is really better for winter, but I was eyeing up a Skogso……

[@BackpackingUK]

I managed to get the Skogso for about half price 😁 The sales have been great this year 🙌

[@wimahlers]

I have the Fjällräven Vidda Pro jacket. And from the 3 it is the best because ... I don't have the other 2. Just kidding. But I do like the Fjällräven Vidda Pro jacket. I do hike. But this is not a hiking jacket. Too big. Too heavy. Too many pockets (what makes it heavy). But this jacket is "roomy", comfortable, durable and excellent for day to day city usage (combined with an umbrella in heavy rain) and excellent for the weekend day walk in a nearby forest/park/beach. Easy to combine with a (fleece) mid-layer. Warm but not sweaty at all in spring and fall conditions (or in the winter together with a breathable mid-layer). Highly wind/storm resistant. A very versatile and comfortable jacket. I have no intentions to wax this jacket. It will ruin the breathability. Hence, the umbrella in the city. Or cover it with a thin rain jacket (like the ROCK FRONT Rain Hoody. Which I also own). About the other two ... again, I don't have these jackets. I can only comment on this jacket. To me, it certainly is worth the cost.

[@waynnegrant5938]

Vidda Pro for me Andy , I like a generous fit , already have the greenland jacket and I like the boxy fit , great review

[@325iaddict]

I'd rather see a comparison between the really waterproof parkas - Barents - Yupik - Polar guide. I know, the Yupik was replaced by the Nuuk and the Polar guide is no longer available, but these 3 parkas are THE Fjallraven parkas to have, and to be able to choose from. I have all 3 and I cannot be happier that I bought them while still available. To me, the Yupik is better than the Nuuk - they moved the draw cord from the bottom of the parka further up - now the bottom is ALWAYS too wide, no way anymore to get it snugly around your body, letting precious body heat escape...

[@MateBasa]

I choose the cheaper one😂😂

[@joekelly9369]

Their ties to israel might be a kick in the nuts for some

[@clynge]

Their zippers are SHIT.. and oh yeah, the zipper bites the windbreaking thing CONSTANTLY.. Never buying another one of their products.

[@BENTWOONEZERO]

All 3 are nice but I would never ever spend that amount of money on a coat.

[@BackpackingUK]

Fair enough 👍 to be honest I buy most of my gear in the sales 😉

[@BENTWOONEZERO]

@@BackpackingUK I got a few new jackets off sportshoes, Jack Wolfskin & Higher state. All under 30 pound, I think you put me on to them ?

[@Gieszkanne]

@@BackpackingUK Yes I never would pay their normal prices! You can get them even cheaper than on sale second hand.

[@dcthomp]

these are nothing compared to the $500 for the Keb Eco Shell

[@Gieszkanne]

@@dcthomp Smock No. 1 just G-1000 not even waterproof 730€!

[@commonwunder]

It is bizarre that a company that pledges 'green values' produces all of their G-1000 kit in huge Chinese factories. Although, the main concern for anyone thinking of purchasing Fjallraven clothing is waterproofing. In the twentieth century, waterproofing through 'waxing' must've seemed quaint and charming. Today... spending hundred of pounds on an outdoor jacket and it not be waterproof, straight out of the packaging is beyond bizarre. Gore-tex is hazardous for the environment, yet Fjallraven maintaining a complete line of clothing with an outdated, non-waterproof material is odd. Their clothing should be a hard pass for anyone other than those charmed, by the lengthy and uneven waxing process... a hard pass for about ninety-five percent of the population. Or the Scandinavians, who want to buy Swedish, 'buying nostalgia' ... yet are really buying a 'make low, sell high', Chinese made product.

[@Nordkampf]

Overrated, overpriced and made in china. Fjallraven is a company worshipped by consumer culture, I've used $50 mil-surp parkas that have lasted longer than these things. Would make a decent ski jacket and that's about it. Definitely not a something I would wear again for something that required actual effort

[@Nordkampf]

On that note their pants are great for alpine. Not worth the price, can find same functionality for a third of the price. I still use rain pants over top. Their jackets are garbage, save your money if you are considering buying them