Review: First Ascent Vertex Expedition Jacket

The Vertex is arguably First Ascent’s most ambitious jacket yet — with a price tag to match. In addition to all the bells and whistles, First Ascent has used a world-class water-resistant membrane and a wonderfully eye-catching colour.

Key Information

Price (at time of writing): R6999
Weight: 510g (Large)
Water column rating: 20,000mm
Breathability rating: 15,000g/m²/24hr
Fabric: 3-Ply eVent DValpine, 40-Denier Nylon Shell

Water Resistance

In addition to an effective DWR coating, the Vertex uses eVent’s DValpine membrane to keep you as dry and comfortable as possible while hiking in adverse weather conditions.

The main zip is protected by a double storm flap with a Velcro closure. As fancy as waterproof zips are, proper storm flaps on main zips give me the warm and fuzzies.

Tested in challenging, wet conditions — the Vertex inspires confidence.

With a water-resistance rating of 20,000mm and a breathability rating of 15,000g/m²/24hr, the Vertex allows you to move comfortably in sideways rain and steep uphill climbs.

Premium eVent DValpine fabric provides excellent weather protection.

As always, these are lab results — no jacket is entirely immune to condensation during high exertion. That said, I spent three hours hiking in driving rain and remained dry and warm.

Outstanding weather protection during extended downpours.

In addition to its breathable membrane, the Vertex includes pit zips (underarm vents) — still the most effective way to manage body temperature inside a waterproof shell.

Pit zips offer instant ventilation for better breathability on the move.

The Fit

As the name suggests, the Vertex Expedition is built for expedition use — situations where you may wear multiple layers beneath your shell or need a full range of motion on technical terrain.

While I didn’t test it on ice climbs, I found it exceptionally comfortable and unrestrictive. With the hood down, I often forgot I was wearing a rain jacket — exactly what you want in an outer shell.

The Vertex in its natural habitat — ready for serious mountain weather.

The Vertex also features a bidirectional main zip, allowing easy access to a climbing harness or belay device while wearing the jacket.

Packability

First Ascent opted for a more durable external fabric, anticipating use in off-trail and alpine conditions. While this adds durability, it comes with a slight weight and bulk penalty compared to ultralight options.

If durability and long-term performance are priorities, it’s a worthwhile trade-off. However, for fast-packers or minimalists, this might feel overbuilt.

Pockets

It’s always satisfying to find that your rain jacket’s pockets remain accessible while wearing a backpack — a clear sign of thoughtful, practical design.

Chest pockets remain usable when wearing a backpack hip belt.

I also loved the internal stretch-mesh pocket — a handy catch-all for small items you want to keep dry but accessible while hiking.

Internal mesh pocket adds practical storage for gloves or snacks.

The Hood

Designed for expedition use, the hood is helmet-compatible and cut larger than average. While it fits well over helmets, the lack of an adjustment tab or top cinch means the hood can slide forward over your eyes when not wearing one.

Helmet-compatible hood offers great coverage but limited volume control.

My workaround was wearing a cap underneath, but at this price point, the lack of a proper volume adjustment system is disappointing. For skiers, this won’t be an issue, but hikers may find it frustrating.

Value for Money

Here’s the elephant in the room — the Vertex’s price. At nearly R7000, it’s in the same league as premium international brands like Patagonia and Arc’teryx.

Is it worth it? If you’re heading on an alpine expedition or ski trip, possibly. But for most South African hikers, it’s likely more jacket than you need — and more than you’ll want to pay.

Conclusion

The Vertex is a premium, technical rain jacket built for serious mountain adventures — whether that’s ice climbing in the Berg, skiing at Tiffindell, or trekking through a Cape storm. It’s exciting to see South African brands competing with the global players in the technical gear space, but in our price-sensitive market, the Vertex will appeal to a niche audience.

This jacket was provided for review purposes by First Ascent and can be purchased through their online shop or First Ascent stockists.