MONTEC pullover vs full-zip jackets: what’s the difference?
Pullover or full-zip? It’s an age-old question on the mountain. But which style is truly the best? We dig our edges into that exact question right here. Check out our guide to the MONTEC pullover vs. full-zip jackets debate below.
Pullover jackets, also called anoraks, are hardly a new thing! The origins date back thousands of years, when Indigenous Arctic groups made hooded pullover jackets from animal skins, tied at the waist for protection from the wind and cold.
Fast-forward to now, and we’re still using the same ideas to protect us from mountain winds and powder face-shots. But are they really better than full-zips, and what are the differences? Check out our handy guide below!
Pullover or full-zip: Which is better?
Pullover or full-zip? The short answer is that neither is objectively "better." Both styles share identical technical DNA across the MONTEC lineup, with a SHIELD-TEC membrane delivering MONTEC’s 20k/20k waterproofing and breathability, a DWR finish, fully taped seams, and bombproof construction.
The real difference comes down to personal preference. Go for a pullover if you want relaxed style and a big, easy-access kangaroo pocket. Go for a full-zip if you want classic versatility and the easiest entry. Go for a hybrid if you want both, since Doom pairs pullover storage with a zip opening.
Here’s how the pullover, full-zip and hybrid designs compare across the full MONTEC jacket lineup.
MONTEC pullovers
Anoraks (or pullovers) go on over your head, with side zips and collar zips to make getting in and out easier:
- Dune: A rider favorite. The Dune jacket pairs a regular fit with an asymmetrical quarter-zip collar, a side-zip entry, and a massive kangaroo pocket with an integrated media pouch.
MONTEC full-zip jackets
Full-zips (or zip-throughs) open all the way down the front, just like a classic ski jacket:
- Arch: Built with a relaxed cut for effortless layering. Arch also has a street-inspired, drop-tail silhouette and spacious front cargo pockets.
- Fawk: MONTEC’s longest-standing icon. Fawk features a timeless regular fit, a storm-guard hood, and four external pockets for all-mountain capability.
- Morpheus: Retro-inspired styling meets modern freeride tech. Morpheus delivers a durable 2-way stretch shell and a retro blocked colorway.
- Moss: Designed exclusively for women, Moss offers a slim fit, a slightly shorter modern cut, and sleek exposed waterproof zips.
- Oracle: A stripped-back, technical powerhouse. Oracle provides a slightly oversized fit, 2-way stretch, and integrated 60/40gsm insulation.
- Sentinel: New to the lineup and built for the whole mountain. Sentinel pairs a regular fit with a ripstop 2-way stretch shell and medium-weight insulation.
- Virago: Built for extra coverage and storage. Virago combines an oversized parka fit, a longer cut, large cargo pockets, and integrated 60/40gsm insulation.
MONTEC hybrid jackets
MONTEC hybrid jackets bring the best of both worlds. These designs pair the clean look and front storage of a pullover with the convenience of a full-front zipper opening:
- Doom: MONTEC ’s original hybrid jacket. Doom features a signature asymmetrical front zipper, multiple front pockets, and huge interior dump pockets.
FAQs
Do pullovers have more storage?
Pullovers don’t necessarily have more storage than full-zip jackets. While pullovers have a spacious central kangaroo pocket, full-zips have storage across multiple internal and external utility pockets. Both hold all your mountain essentials.
Are pullovers the same as riding hoodies?
No. MONTEC pullover jackets and anoraks are fully featured, stormproof outerwear with 20k/20k membranes, woven outer shells, and insulation options. Riding hoodies, while waterproof or water-resistant, are made from softshell material with a fleece interior.
Are pullovers warmer than full-zip jackets?
No. Both MONTEC styles share the exact same technical membranes and windproofing. Anoraks may not have a front zipper, but warmth fundamentally depends on insulation and proper layering, and that varies by model rather than by style. Plenty of our jackets come with optional insulation, so you can pick the warmth you need.