Mountain Hardwear Monkey Woman Grid Jacket Review
Looking for a super soft, high-loft fleece that is easy to layer with other pieces? If so, then you should check out the Mountain Hardwear Monkey Woman Grid Jacket, which is a spin off of their beloved Monkey Man and Monkey Woman jackets. This Polartec fleece jacket is a tad different in that the grid pattern helps to reduce bulk and helps save on weight. The Monkey Woman Grid Jacket weighs in at 12 ounces with a hood, while the traditional Monkey Woman weighs in at 15.2 ounces and does not include a hood. The grid like patterning also enhances breathability and it does this without loosing the allure of the soft Monkey Polartec Phur fleece fabric.
To maximize breathability, the jacket also incorporates MicroClimate Zoning in areas of highest heat production: under the arms from the wrist to upper shoulders and in the hood. The back panel is comprised of a single layer of the Monkey Phur fleece, while the front is reinforced with an additional layering of fabric.
The Monkey Woman Grid Jacket has a center back length is 25”, which is plenty long to keep your torso covered while climbing, skiing, etc. The arm length is also generous and allows you to take advantage of the integrated thumb loops without restricting your arm movements. The thumb loop opening is done nicely in that the slit is plenty long to accommodate your thumb even when wearing a light glove, a feature I loved.
The Monkey Woman Grid is less boxy than the Monkey Woman Jacket, and has a more feminine cut. I found that it ran true to size when comparing measurements to the provided size-guide. The hood is close fitting to help seal out the elements and the collar has a bit higher rise to keep your chin well covered. The jacket also features a chest pocket and two fleece lined side pockets, to help keep your hands warm while taking a break.
The Mountain Hardwear Monkey Woman Grid Jacket has been a great option for fall adventures and will continue to be a versatile piece come winter, when layered under a shell with baselayers. This jacket is available in black, oxide blue (featured above), and poppy (cover image). It is also available for men and is titled the Monkey Man Grid Jacket.
