The version I have is the electric blue in medium (made of Pertex Microlight on the outside). The colour is slightly milder than the blue colour shown in the image below. I have heard that the newer versions (I think for 2015) are going to be made from the lighter Pertex Quantum like the Rab Cirrus. Not sure I think that's a good idea but hey...
The Lite Speed is a windproof This means that it blocks the wind! So what, you ask? Well here's the thing. 'Hard shells' (read 'waterproofs') - even things like Polartec NeoShell and reVent (both of which aren't completely windproof), or Marmot's latest NanoPro TM fabric - don't actually breathe as well as solely windproof fabrics. The membrane that stops water getting in, also stops moisture getting out - compared to a windproof where there is no membrane. Therefore a windproof is more breathable than a waterproof. (Some people even deliberately wash their windproof in a biological powder to permanently remove the 'DWR' - durable waterproof repellant - finish, making a windproof even more breathable but not at all water resistant).
A windproof is a great line of defence to stash in your bag (they pack down incredibly small) and take with you for that bit of extra warmth that can come from keeping the wind out. If you've used an Event fabric (like I have) you'll know that sometimes you can feel a wee bit of wind coming through compared to say Gore Tex. The Lite Speed will completely block the wind but at the same time remain incredibly breathable.
In Use
In use in Scotland and the Lakes, I've used the Lite Speed as a windproof / extra layer and it really works. On top of the Buachaille Etive Mor with the wind shooting across the top, the Lite Speed was amazing at cutting out the wind and warming me up just that right amount. The same thing was true in the Lakes on the top of Blencathra!
The Lite Speed comes with a stuff sac that packs down to a size that is a bit bigger than a large orange and comes with a mini carabiner to clip onto your belt / pack or somewhere. This gives it the ability to be used any time and anywhere which I've also done! The Lite Speed weighs only 160g.
So as a windproof, the Lite Speed is brilliant. It cuts out 100% of the wind unlike say my OR Ferrosi hoody. However, this also means that it can get a bit more clammy a bit more quickly. This isn't much of an issue because if you're beginning to feel hot, then de-layering is the way ahead! But I did (understandably) feel that my lightweight softshell was more breathable (and of course, less windproof!)
Cuffs
The cuffs sit fairly tight on your arm and so it's not a jacket where you can roll up your cuffs. Great touch from Montane having a YKK zip and anti-snag baffle behind it (love this!), with a chin guard at the top. The hood has a slightly stiffened 'stick' in the front of it which will help visibility when outdoors. Nice articulated arms and fit generally.
Sizing
OK so sizing - I am a medium in most things (5'11" and around 10 stone athletic build).
The Lite Speed fits pretty well and for Montane is slightly 'oversized'. I would say that the Lite Speed is not exactly an athletic cut and is larger than other Montane sizing at the equivalent size. I'd maybe put the sizing around the same as my large Montane waterproof.
I would generally go with your normal size for the fit of the Lite Speed, unless you are wanting it to really act as a running top etc, in which case I'd say go down one size.
Durability
I've worn my Montane Medusa 32 pack over the Litespeed across Dartmoor, Lakeland and Glen Coe and it's not shown any signs of damage as yet. But I've only had my Lite Speed for a few months now.
However, from other reviews I'd say the Lite Speed has the perfect balance between weight, function, breathability and durability. Of course things like the Paramo Fuera Ascent are more durable but heavier. The Rab Cirrus is lighter and less durable. The Lite Speed comes with a 30D (denier) ripstop Pertex Microlight.
The Colours
I got the 'electric blue' colour and it's a great colour, very accurate to the online colour (I think this colour may be discontinued now). I like the two-tone approach of the Lite Speed across the colour range - if that kind of thing is important to you!
The 'Feel' of the Lite Speed
The feel is great. It is lightweight and just looks great. The inside of the fabric looks a bit 'shiny' (for want of a better word). I would say that the Lite Speed could create a bit of static in warmer months, if you're as electrical as me!
The Noise
One area that people have pointed at, is the noise of the Lite Speed in high winds. It is noisy and rustles loudly in the wind. This can be quite common to other wind proofs inevitably. The one exception I've heard of and seen is the Paramo Fuera (Ascent and ladies versions included). So yes it can be a bit flappy and very noisy!
Conclusion
All in all the Lite Speed is a phenomenal piece of kit. It will breathe incredibly well, be durable (esp if used with Montane's packs where non-abrasive straps are used) and I can't speak highly enough of it.
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