With temperatures dipping to minus ten in Innsbruck my first impression was that the jacket wouldn't be warm enough for a day on the slopes - it looks too light and compact to be a seriously warm number. But with a base layer and t-shirt underneath it was surprisingly toasty on the slopes in Khutai - Columbia's signature Omni-heat thermal reflective lining may looks like a 70s disco outfit but it's an excellent insulator.
With a drawstring hem, soft cuffs and a rub resistant chin guard the jacket is super comfy, although some women might find it a little too short - it won't cover your backside - and the absence of a hood feels a bit strange for an extreme weather jacket.
Rain resistant and stain resistant, the jacket fared well in heavy snow flurries, although I'm not sure how well it would stand up to a heavy English shower. Because it's so compact and slimline this jacket was also ideal for wearing out on the town at night, after a day on the slopes. And what's more, it looks pretty cool too.
Columbia Women's Powerfly Down Jacket, £160
Buy it now from: blacks.co.uk
