Rob Greenwood and Penny Orr take a look at Montane's updated and extensive Protium Fleece collection.

These days we're inundated with so much choice of gear and clothing that it's often hard to decide what to actually buy. In the case of mid-layers, soft shell and 'active insulation' offer countless options. But in spite of these modern developments, there's a lot to be said for the classic, and some may say understated, fleece. Fleeces are light, breathable, adaptable and offer exceptional value for money. Montane have just released a comprehensive revamp of their Protium fleece collection and we've put each through their paces, because as you'll see below - there are plenty of them to choose from!

Over the last 12 months Montane have been adapting their range into various categories that define where each model sits. Here's a brief summary:

• Protium Lite - the lightest model within the collection
• Protium - a mid-weight all-rounder
• Protium XT - a warm fleece, with a harder face fabric
• Protium XPD - maximum warmth, maximum fluffiness

Throughout several months of solid use we've tested both women's and men's versions and a range of hooded vs. non-hooded models, since each comes with the option of with or without.

Many people - myself included - value the adaptability of a hood, while others prefer not to have one on every single layer, since they soon get bulky. In any layering system there are only so many hoods that you'll be able to use at once, and this goes double when wearing a helmet. Whilst I've already slightly denigrated the idea of endless consumer choice, it has to be said that the hooded/non-hooded variations are really welcome, since this is a choice that actually means something.

Protium Lite

Best For: Walking, Running, Climbing, Mountaineering

Pull-On: £65 / 200g

Hooded: £70 / 225g

Rob: If there was one fleece I instantly fell in love with in this collection, this is it. The Protium Lite is a fantastic all-rounder, packing a serious punch for its relatively light weight. I've used it as a base layer on cold days and a mid layer on cool days. I've also used it for a wide range of activities, from walking to running, bouldering, sport climbing and trad climbing. Its light weight, coupled with its long arms and active cut make it a pleasure to wear no matter what you're doing. This is a fleece that everyone should own…

As is often the case though, the pros are also the cons, with its light, breathable nature also letting a whole load of cold air in. It's extremely breathable as a result of this (which is good), but if you're wearing it as an outer layer on a cold day you'll notice the cool air coming through (which is bad). This is easily remedied by use of either a wind or waterproof and perhaps that highlights how, particularly on colder days, the Protium Lite is best used as part of a layering system.

The only other downside to its weight is that it is a little more susceptible to tears and nicks, although having given it a hammering whilst climbing - including two weeks at Font - it isn't showing any signs of wear or tear, despite being used in such an abrasive environment. It's also a very snug fit, almost baselayer-esque, so if you're after something a little looser it's worth sizing up accordingly.

Penny: The Protium Lite is a great hooded fleece. It's much lighter than other fleeces I own, and as a result, it feels much more adaptable. As part of a layering system, it will go over most things or it will fit nicely under a warmer layer such at the XPD. For its weight, it offers great insulation and warmth, but it breathes well too, prevents overheating and stopping you getting too sweaty. For those really high output activities that do involve a lot of sweat it is very quick drying since the fabric is so light and breathable.

The Protium Lite has yet to show signs of wear and tear despite taking a beating from various rock types. It' comfortable, active cut, lightweight fabric, and good quarter zip make this top a solid choice throughout most of the UK's seasons. My only gripe is that there are not more colours available. While I like the colours on offer, it would be nice to see this top in the natty sage green featured elsewhere in the range. Otherwise, having used this fleece in a variety of conditions - from warm evening dips in the river to cold morning runs - I find it difficult to fault the Protium Lite.

Protium 

Best For: Walking, Mountaineering

Pull-On: £55 / 300g

Full-zip £70 / 380g

Hooded: £75 / 390g

Rob: Compared to the Protium Lite, the Protium itself feels positively heavy weight, although the reality is that it's a fairly standard weight fleece. It definitely has a thicker, warmer and more protective feel and lets a little less air through than the Protium Lite. Because of its increased thickness it feels a little less breathable and a little more restrictive, although this is quite subtle, and perhaps only noticeable once you've worn the Protium Lite. Compared to the Protium Lite I haven't fallen in love with it, but it definitely has its place as a classic weight fleece. I'd have chosen the Protium Lite over this for higher octane activities, then if I was to choose another fleece for colder conditions I'd have chosen the Protium XT. 

Penny: The Protium Hooded Fleece perhaps lacks the wow-factor of some of the other products in the range. Don't get me wrong, this is a solid, versatile top to use throughout the year, either as an outer layer in warmer weather or as part of a layering system in colder conditions. But in a market full of good mid-weight fleeces, this top doesn't particularly stand out.

The stretchy, grid-backed fleece is designed with moisture management in mind, providing excellent breathability, making it quick drying and preventing overheating during intense physical activities. Additionally, the top features two zippered pockets for convenient storage of small essentials while on the go.

The fit is comfortable with long-enough arms and (just) wide enough forarms.

Protium XT 

Best For: Walking, Climbing, Winter, Mountaineering

Jacket: £120 / 395g

Hooded: £110 / 425g

Rob: The Protium XT has much more the feel of a full-on jacket, partly due to its full-length zip and partly thanks to its burlier face fabric, which gives it a much more protective and durable feel. this is another step up in terms of warmth and offers greater wind resistance too, making it ideal for colder days. It would be ideal as a midlayer for both the Scottish Winter and Alpine environment as a result of this, although I've equally happily used it on cooler spring/summer evenings for trad climbing and hanging around at camp.

It offers a looser fit than the Protium Lite and Protium, with good freedom of movement throughout arms and shoulders, and next to no rise around the waist when you're raising your arms above your head.

Protium XPD 

Best For: Snuggling...

Hooded (only) - £130 / 470g

Penny: Whereas Rob fell in love with the XT, I fell in love with the XPD. A major part of the love came off the back of an extremely cold camping trip to Font, where it felt like I lived in it for the best part of a fortnight, often wearing the Protium Lite as a baselayer underneath in order to get maximum warmth. It's definitely warm, but because of its looser weave and breathable side panels, it also lets a lot of air through - more so than the XT - so it regulates temperatures extremely well. This is obviously less ideal in windy conditions, but something that is easily remedied through the use of a windproof, and if you're after something with more wind resistance, then there's always the XT.

The XPD provides a cozy and comfortable fit, making it perfect for lounging or engaging in light outdoor activities. Additionally, its design ensures that you won't feel weighed down while still enjoying the benefits of its warmth and breathability. The XPD isn't overly bulky looking or feeling, but it has a similar feel to wearing a warm and fluffy bathrobe outside. Ultimate comfort!