Black Yak Bruna UL Waterproof Jacket

Black Yaks' Bruna: Ultralight Minimalist Waterproof Or High End Wind-Top? Or Both?

Black Yak are a high-end, Seoul-based mountaineering brand, often referred to as "the Arc’teryx of South Korea" (you can find out more about Black Yak on the Altitude Blog).

"Black Yak's Bruna is about as minimalist a fully waterproof jacket can get. [...] In our view the Bruna is first and foremost an outstanding windproof jacket; you can have it on in high winds, and if the heavens open and it starts to hammer it down, you put up the hood and just keep going. It's an impressively unclammy wind-top with top-class waterproofing built in.  

The Bruna will block out the wind better (approx. 95% wind resistant) than many lightweight wind-tops and due to its impressive membrane manages moisture vapour extremely well. [...] a compelling option for going light on 2 to 3 season treks." (compiled from Scramble's "Special Mention" Review)

Features

Click here for more details and images of the Bruna Jacket. 

The Bruna has an excellent "self-adjusting hood" that moves with the head with or without a cap, and features its own laminated capped brim.  The YKK zipper uses a "welt" construction to aid packability (packing down to 8 x 18cm into its back pocket). The hood, cuffs and hem all feature elasticated edging. 

Feature Summary

• Micro Ripstop Nylon Face Fabric
• YAK SKYN™ 3-layer PU membrane
• Seam Sealed:  13mm Stretch Seam Tape
• Nylon Tricot Backer
• Drop Tail Construction
• Excellent “Self Adjusting” Hood
• Mechanical Stretch
• YKK “Welt” Zipper
• Self Store Pocket
• Weight: 220g (L)

Sizing

Black Yak tend to size a little small, but in the Bruna's case, for those requiring a more "alpine" fit for their hard shell (as per the product photos), keeping to your standard size would likely work. Below Scramble's editor is sizing up (XL) from his normal size (L),preferring a looser, airy fit.

• Large: 40" Chest = Looser; 42" = Fitted
• XL: 42" Chest = Looser; 44" = Fitted