Shackleton has built a reputation for producing expedition-grade outerwear, and its Fortuna hardshell ski jacket represents the brand's first foray into dedicated skiwear. Priced at £745, this jacket promises polar-level protection in a ski-specific design.
Testing in Extreme Conditions
The Fortuna jacket was put through its paces in some of the world's most challenging winter environments. Our global travel editor wore it during a January trip to Greenland, where temperatures in Sisimuit dropped well below freezing. The jacket was also tested during two weeks in Finland, one of the coldest winters in recent years, with temperatures reaching -22°C.
Activities included husky sledding, snowmobiling, and crossing a frozen lake in southeastern Finland. The jacket performed admirably throughout, providing warmth and protection without sacrificing breathability.
Key Features and Performance
The Fortuna is a hardshell jacket made from recycled polyester, with a waterproof rating of 20,000mm and breathability of 20,000g/m²/24h. It is machine washable on a hand wash cycle. Available in sizes XS to XL and colours black or black/brown, it is designed as a shell to be layered over base and mid-layers.
In testing, the jacket proved incredibly warm even with only a fleece mid-layer underneath, thanks to effective wind-proofing. The ventilation system allowed for strenuous activity without overheating, and the waterproofing was exceptional. Outer pockets comfortably held large gloves, while breast pockets accommodated credit cards, a phone, and a passport.
The soft-touch microfleece at the neck was a welcome detail, adding comfort during long days of wear.
Sizing Considerations
One notable point is that the jacket is designed for men, which may affect fit for some women. Our tester, a petite woman who usually wears size 8-10, found the small size oversized but not unmanageable. It allowed room for a down jacket underneath, though sizing down would also have been possible. The matching pants required rolling up the bottoms and tightening the Velcro at the waist.
Value for Money
At £745, the Shackleton Fortuna is undoubtedly an investment. However, for those who require high-performance, durable, and versatile outerwear for extreme conditions, it offers good value. Casual skiers may find the technical features excessive, but for serious winter adventurers, the jacket's quality justifies the price.
Testing Methodology
The jacket was tested in snowy, sunny, cold, and wet conditions, evaluating breathability, insulation, style, and comfort. Real-world testing included dog sledging across frozen lakes and snowmobiling in Arctic Greenland. Our reviewer has over a decade of experience reporting from extreme climates and has been reviewing outdoor gear for IndyBest for more than four years.
