Mountain Equipment Tupilak Women's GORE-TEX Jacket

A robust and weatherproof jacket purpose-built for winter and Alpine climbing on the most formidable lines and grandest mountain faces. The Tupilak Jacket represents Mountain Equipment’s highest standard of construction, designed specifically to withstand the harshest conditions imaginable.

Rooted in the brutal demands of Scottish winter climbing, the Tupilak Jacket combines simplicity with exceptional protection. This has established it as a trusted companion for those venturing onto challenging ice and mixed routes in severe weather. Its performance has made it a staple on major ascents worldwide—from pioneering climbs in the Himalayas to classic Alpine routes and Alaskan epics. Weighing just 440g in a size 12, even the most weight-conscious members of the Mountain Equipment team often favour the Tupilak over lighter alternatives, valuing the additional durability and confidence it delivers when deep in remote terrain.

Constructed entirely from GORE-TEX Pro with a rugged 80 denier face fabric, this jacket delivers the abrasion resistance required for mixed routes, while offering the flexibility and comfort essential for technical climbing and extended days on the mountain.

The refined Alpine fit ensures unrestricted movement with no excess fabric, but it is perhaps the advanced Super Alpine Hood that sets the Tupilak apart. Larger than the Mountain HC Hood seen on models such as the Manaslu or Makalu, it offers unparalleled protection and visibility when worn with a helmet. The seamless face panel has been meticulously shaped to guard against icy winds and spindrift, all while remaining comfortable and non-restrictive.

Two generously sized chest pockets are positioned for easy access while wearing a harness, and the cuffs have been designed to fit comfortably over gloves, effectively sealing out snow and rain when needed.

Features

Materials

• The jacket is constructed using waterproof, windproof, and breathable GORE-TEX Pro 80D fabric, which guarantees protection from the elements.
• The main material used is 80D GORE-TEX Pro (148gsm), featuring a waterproof and breathable 3-layer structure with a DWR coating. Hydrostatic Head: 28,000mm, RET: <7.
• All seams are 13mm taped to eliminate potential water ingress.
• The garment has passed the rigorous GORE-TEX Storm Test certification.

Patterning & Design

• A size large jacket weighs 500g or 1 lb 1.6 oz.
• It is ideally suited for ice and mixed climbing, Alpine adventures, and general mountaineering.
• The design is minimalist yet tough, prioritising efficient movement and dependable protection.
• Utilising the brand’s established ‘Alpine Fit’, it offers unrestricted mobility with no unnecessary fabric, and is tailored to accommodate a full layering system.
• The Tupilak features a slightly narrower hem and a slightly shorter cut than jackets like the Lhotse, resulting in a closer fit ideal for steep terrain.
• Built using Mountain Equipment’s Storm Construction, it meets their highest standards for weather resistance and durability.
• Advanced tailoring in the arms prevents the hem from lifting when reaching overhead during climbs.
• A laminated and bonded hanging loop is discreetly located beneath the back of the hood.

Hood Configuration

• The Super Alpine Helmet-Compatible Hood is fully adjustable, with rear and lateral volume controls, two front adjusters, and internal silicone strips that grip helmets securely.
• A laminated and wired visor keeps the field of vision clear, even in strong winds or when wearing goggles or glasses.
• The seamless face panel is cut to protect against harsh winds and spindrift while maintaining comfort and flexibility.
• Internal hood adjustment cords are routed through dedicated channels with a rollaway clip for tidy stowing.
• Cohaesive® cord locks and cord tunnels are used inside for smooth and secure adjustments.

Pocket Configuration

• Two large chest pockets with YKK® AquaGuard® zips are positioned for access when using a harness or carrying a pack and are spacious enough to store gloves and other essentials.
• The YKK® #5 AquaGuard® zips feature internal storm flaps, drainage channels, and protective garages for added water resistance.
• Zip pullers are ergonomically shaped to be easily operated while wearing gloves or mitts.
• The pocket construction is fully laminated, featuring waterproof pocket bags to protect contents.
• A single internal zipped pocket provides secure storage for smaller valuables.

Centre Front Zip

• A full-length, 2-way YKK® AquaGuard® #5 zip is fitted at the front, backed with a laser-cut internal storm flap.
• A press-stud fastening system at the hem allows for venting while keeping the jacket securely in place.
  
• Ergonomic zip pullers are designed for ease of use when wearing gloves or mittens.
• The chinguard is rolled over and lined with soft brushed microfleece for added comfort against the chin and mouth.

Cuffs & Sleeves Configuration

• Sleeves are articulated and pre-shaped to facilitate high-reaching movements during technical climbs.
• The cuffs are Velcro adjustable and bonded, ensuring a snug and secure fit around wrists or over gloves and mitts.

Waist & Hem Construction

• The hem includes internal dual tether drawcords for a close fit and reduced heat loss.
• Pull tabs are bar tack reinforced for added strength.
• The hem is bonded for a clean, durable finish.

Further Features

• Reflective Mountain Equipment logos appear on the chest, upper right arm, and back for visibility in low light.
• The main fabric is produced by W. L. Gore & Associates in China.
• The jacket is designed and engineered in the UK and manufactured in Ukraine.
• Built for longevity and supported by Mountain Equipment’s Product Lifetime Guarantee.
• Mountain Equipment is a proud member of the Fair Wear Foundation.
• The jacket is packaged in a recyclable protective plastic bag.
• An information swing tag is printed on FSC-certified paper sourced sustainably.
  
  

Specifications

Weight	440 g / 15.5 oz
Materials	GORE-TEX PRO 3-Layer 80D / 154gsm 100% Polyamide 6.6 Face, ePTFE membrane with GORE Micro Grid backer

 

Technology

Fair Wear Fair Wear ensures that the clothing is produced under high standards that promote ethical working conditions.

Gore-Tex Pro GORE-TEX is the world's leading waterproof and breathable fabric technology, and GORE-TEX PRO is Gore's highest-performance fabric. GORE-TEX PRO utilises a revolutionary multi-layer ePTFE-based membrane system and combines high-performance face textiles with their patented Micro Grid Backer technology. The latest generation of GORE-TEX PRO delivers up to 28% more breathability than previous versions. The result is better comfort for the professional mountaineer and serious outdoor enthusiasts in the most extreme conditions. Out of a fleet of different GORE-TEX PRO fabrics, we choose only options that stand up to sustained use and provide the highest dependability and breathability.

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