New for 2007, the TP2 Phantom jacket and high-fit trousers are Henri Lloyd's lightest offshore oilskins to date. Constructed using TP2 Alpha, the need for a secondary lining is eradicated resulting in a low weight, low bulk design ideal for racing.
As with most of the items produced by Henri Lloyd, the Phantom range looks good. Internal back, waist and hem adjustments in the jacket and bat wing adjusters to trim the waist of the trousers allow the waterproofs to be contoured close to the body.
This ergonomic fit streamlines your profile which in turn gives complete ease of movement and is very comfortable to wear for long periods. As well as being a more flattering cut, you also have a choice of 'slimming' Carbon or Red in the men's jacket or alternatively Light Grey if you are female - not very practical.
Though the Phantom jacket and high-fit trousers are deceivingly lightweight and appear to be more similar to costal, rather than ocean foul weather gear, they most certainly deliver the goods.
The fabric has more breathability and durability than many other thicker materials. This is achieved by applying a raised Alpha Pattern Profile to a lightweight polyamide face. Internal moisture management and Super DWR finish wicks moisture away quickly and easily leaving you dry and comfortable.
A high visibility peaked hood is designed to pack down as tightly as possible. There is a fleece strip next to the face and you can easily adjust the depth of the hood, while Rentex quick drying mesh which lines the collar claims to reduce water absorption. This however wasn't quite as 'comfy' as I was expecting.
After a few hours on the water I was left looking like Rudolf's cousin with a red chin. As it was a windy day, with winds up to 40 mph, I had the jacket complete fastened with the high collar around my face to protect me from the gusts.
I am not sure whether it was the Rentex or possibly a piece of Velcro next to my skin, but I was left with a graze that didn't disappear for a few days. I haven't seen anyone else reporting this problem, so I am not sure whether it was the jacket or me who was responsible. Either way - it hurt!
Another disappointing feature of the jacket was the Dartex cuffs. Water seemed to trickle down my arms with every wave that came into the cockpit. Though they did seem to dry again fairly quickly, it was still very irritating.
Heavy duty Cordura reinforcement features on the most hardwearing points (knees, seat and ankles) of the hi-fit trousers to protect against deck abrasion. With a higher bib than its predecessor they offer more protection from the elements. The wide straps of the braces and touch and close shoulder fastening system don't chafe and are easy to navigate even when wearing gloves. The Women's TP2 Phantom Hi-Fit also features a drop seat facility for added convenience.
The Henri Lloyd TP2 Phantom jacket and high-fit trousers retail for £200 and £180 respectively. For more information visit www.henrilloyd.com.
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Very light weight and comfortable to wear, the TP2 Advanced technology is certainly something to rave about. With a good selection of adjusters to help you attain the required fit, the Phantom jacket and high-fit trousers give a well tailored feel. However a slim profile doesn't subtract from a bright red chin or soggy arms, so I think I'll stick with what I've got for the moment!
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