Kit review- Fjern Aktiv II Down Hooded Jacket

Mens Aktiv II Down Jacket (Poseidon/Citrus)

A couple of years ago Fjern were kind enough to give me a couple of pieces of kit to test and I was really impressed with them so when they got back in touch to ask me if I’d like to try out their new down jacket I jumped at the chance. A few days later the Fjern Aktiv II down jacket arrived and I was eager to try it out. First impressions were very positive with the coat looking very smart in muted colours with a vibrant, bright trim. It is noticably lighter weight than the Arktis II, but that was a plus point for me as I tend to run hot in the hills and a slightly less warming mid-layer would be more useful.
I took the jacket out for a trial run in the Peak District on a chilly but bright February day with a distinct wind chill but not much in the way of rain forecast. The jacket is a nice, snug fit and well tailored to the body without any of those rogue pockets that allow a breeze to sneak in and chill you. The cuffs are elasticated and the hood has a neat drawstring system so it can fit closely around the face. It zips high and provides an excellent level of protection. The Aktiv II proved perfect for the conditions with it’s “700 fill powder down insulation” proving adept at eliminating any feelings of chilliness in the teeth of a bitter wind. Given how light the jacket is and how small it packs down the levels of warmth are impressive. It’s easy wearing too and the fit allows for comfortable movement without it riding up or the down bunching or clumping, it would be suitable for wearing on an easy scramble. The Aktiv II has three pockets, the main two are a good size and also slightly padded (nice for keeping gloveless hands warm) and the chest pocket is small but perfect for a small snack or a credit card or stray ten pound note.
All in all the jacket maintains the high standard I have come to expect from Fjern products. It’s warm and cosy, fits snugly and perfect for the Spring/Autumn days on the hill when the temperature is low. As it isn’t as bulky as some of it’s contemporaries it would sit underneath a waterproof on a more brutal day. I am sure this will get a lot of wear over the 2026 season particularly when I am up in Scotland. As I head off to Nepal again next week to trek in the Annapurna region I will be digging out the Arktis II to provide that little extra warmth for those 4000 m nights.