Bergans of Norway Visbretind
It combines windproof chest protection (perfect for descents) with a breathable backpanel (ideal for climbing).
Brand: Bergans of Norway
Model: Visbretind
Breathability Under the arms and across the back, stretchy fleece feels like a midlayer, not outerwear. “I never clammed up, even during hurried dawn patrol missions before work,” reports our tester, who sometimes observed steam wafting from the open weave.
Weather Protection Windproof material on the chest, arms, and shoulders kept our tester warm after switching to downhill mode. “Usually I pack a hardshell for the descent, but unless it was dumping, the Visbretind made that unnecessary,” she says. The high, snug, fleecy collar seals in heat, and the midweight warmth was appropriate for all but spring conditions. But there’s no hood, and the breathable back panels can’t seal out precip.
Fit & Features The body-hugging cut makes it easy to slide a puffy or hardshell on top. Two chest pockets are placed along the center zip (no interference from a pack’s shoulder straps).
$219; 1 lb. (L); bergans.com