The SIMOND MAKALU mountaineering down jacket from Decathlon is built for serious cold. Designed for alpine expeditions, summit camps, and technical climbs, it delivers warmth, durability, and smart features at a price that undercuts most of its competitors. With 700 fill-power duck down, reinforced forearms, and harness-compatible pockets, this jacket is more than just warm—it’s ready for the mountain.
Whether you’re bivvying in Glencoe, pushing through Scottish winter ridgelines, or prepping for high-altitude trekking, the MAKALU offers a rare combination of performance and value. Here’s how it holds up in real-world use.
Built for Harsh Conditions
The first thing you notice about the MAKALU is its loft. The 90/10 duck down blend offers a fill power of 700 cuin (IDFB standard), which translates to serious insulation. Decathlon rates it for temperatures down to –27°C during moderate activity in a 5 km/h wind, and that’s backed by lab testing in a climatic chamber.
The jacket uses 3D partitioning to keep the down evenly distributed, avoiding cold spots. It’s not ultralight, but it’s impressively compressible—packing down into one of its own pockets for easy stowage. For mountaineers, that means it fits easily into a summit pack without hogging space.
Smart Features for Alpine Use
This jacket isn’t just warm—it’s practical. It includes:
- Two large hand-warmer pockets
- Two chest pockets accessible while wearing a harness
- One internal flap pocket for a phone or GPS
- Two internal mesh pockets for gloves or a flask
The hood is helmet-compatible and adjustable from both the front and back. It’s down-filled and shaped to stay in place without obstructing vision. The forearms are reinforced with a tougher fabric to handle rope work, ice tools, and abrasion—an often-overlooked detail that makes a big difference in durability.
Fit and Freedom of Movement
The MAKALU is cut for movement. It’s roomy enough to layer over a shell or fleece, but not so bulky that it feels cumbersome. Most users report it fits true to size, though some mention it runs slightly small—especially if you’re layering heavily underneath.
Freedom of movement scores high in user reviews. Whether you’re swinging axes or scrambling over mixed terrain, the jacket moves with you. The cuffs are snug but flexible, and the hem cinch keeps drafts out without riding up.
Real-World Performance
This jacket has been tested in serious conditions. One reviewer wore it on the summit of Aconcagua and reported no issues with warmth or comfort. Others have used it for Scottish winter camps, alpine hut approaches, and overnight bivvies in sub-zero temperatures.
The outer fabric is water-repellent—not waterproof—but it sheds snow and light moisture well. For full protection, pair it with a shell in wet conditions. The lightweight outer material is a trade-off for packability, but it holds up well with care. Decathlon even includes a tenacious tape patch for field repairs.
Packability and Weight
While not ultralight, the MAKALU is impressively compact. It packs into one of its own pockets and weighs between 208g (XS) and 290g (XXL), depending on size. That’s competitive for a jacket rated to –27°C.
For climbers, ski tourers, and winter backpackers, this means it’s easy to carry and quick to deploy when the temperature drops. It’s not a jacket you’ll wear all day on the move, but it’s perfect for rest stops, summit pushes, and cold camps.
Value for Money
At £169.99, the SIMOND MAKALU punches well above its weight. Comparable jackets from premium brands often cost £250–£400, and while they may offer slightly lighter materials or more refined stitching, the core performance is similar.
Decathlon’s direct-to-consumer model helps keep costs down, and the jacket doesn’t skimp on essentials. You get high-quality down, expedition-ready features, and a two-year warranty—all at a price that makes it accessible to more climbers and winter adventurers.
Sustainability and Care
The down used in the MAKALU is certified to the Responsible Down Standard, ensuring ethical sourcing. The jacket is machine washable at 30°C and can be tumble-dried with tennis balls to restore loft. Decathlon provides clear care instructions and even offers repair services through their Second Life program.
Final Verdict
The Decathlon SIMOND MAKALU mountaineering down jacket is a standout option for anyone heading into serious cold. It’s warm, thoughtfully designed, and built to handle real mountain conditions. While it’s not the lightest or most premium-feeling jacket on the market, it delivers where it counts—and at a price that’s hard to beat.
If you’re planning winter climbs, alpine treks, or high-altitude expeditions and want reliable warmth without spending a fortune, the MAKALU deserves a spot in your kit.
