Overview: The £60 Jacket That Punches Above Its Weight
The MT100 is Decathlon’s entry-level down puffer, designed for cold, dry conditions and minimalist packers. It’s filled with RDS-certified 800 fill-power duck down (90/10) and weighs in at around 300g (size L), making it one of the lightest insulated jackets in its class. It’s not flashy, but it’s functional—and that’s where it shines.
Fit & Construction
- Fit: Athletic cut, slightly tapered at the waist. It runs small, so sizing up is strongly recommended—especially if you plan to layer underneath.
- Shell Fabric: 15D polyamide with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating. It’s thin but surprisingly abrasion-resistant for the weight.
- Lining: 100% polyester, smooth and non-clingy, making it easy to layer over a fleece or base layer.
- Hood: Elastic-bound, non-adjustable, but snug and effective. It fits under a helmet and adds meaningful warmth.
- Cuffs & Hem: Simple elastic binding—no toggles or cinches, but they do the job.
Warmth & Insulation
- Fill Power: 800 CUIN duck down gives it excellent loft and compressibility.
- Temperature Rating: Comfort rated to -5°C, though that assumes moderate activity and decent layering. I’ve used it down to freezing with just a Merino base and stayed warm while moving.
- Baffle Design: Narrow horizontal baffles help prevent down migration and cold spots. The jacket warms up quickly and retains heat well for its weight.
Packability
- Packs into its own pocket (left-hand side), forming a compact bundle about the size of a large grapefruit.
- Fits easily into a saddlebag, frame bag, or even a jersey pocket if you’re determined.
- Ideal as a “just-in-case” layer for shoulder-season rides or summit stops.
Weather Resistance
- Water Resistance: The DWR coating shrugs off light drizzle and snow, but this is not a waterproof jacket. If it gets soaked, the down will lose loft.
- Wind Resistance: Surprisingly good. The tightly woven shell fabric blocks most wind, and the hood adds a nice buffer around the ears.
- Layering: Works well under a shell for full weather protection. I’ve paired it with a lightweight rain jacket in sleet and stayed warm and dry.
Durability & Build Quality
- After a year of use—including being stuffed into bags, sat on, and worn under a pack—it’s held up well.
- No down leakage, no failed zips, and only minor scuffing on the sleeves.
- The zippers are smooth, though not YKK, and the stitching is tidy with no loose threads.
Use Cases
- Bikepacking: Packs small, weighs little, and adds serious warmth at camp.
- Hiking: Great for layering in cold, dry conditions. Not ideal for bushwhacking due to the thin shell.
- Travel: Looks clean and low-profile enough to wear around town. Doesn’t scream “technical gear.”
- Everyday Use: Perfect for frosty commutes, pub gardens, or dog walks when you don’t want to lug a heavier coat.
Limitations
- No adjustability: Hood, hem, and cuffs are all elastic-bound with no toggles or drawcords.
- Not waterproof: Needs a shell in wet conditions.
- Runs small: Try before you buy or size up.
- No internal pockets: Just two zipped hand pockets on the outside.
Final Verdict
The Forclaz MT100 Hooded Down Puffer is a phenomenal value for anyone who needs a lightweight, packable, and warm jacket without breaking the bank. It’s not the most feature-rich or rugged, but for £59.99, it’s hard to beat. Whether you’re layering up for a frosty gravel ride in the Cévennes or sipping coffee outside a windswept bothy, this jacket earns its keep.
