Zirkulu Endurance Shell Jacket Review

Zirkulu, a small Irish brand founded by two lifelong friends, is taking on the outdoor apparel industry with a rain jacket that claims to be as eco-conscious as it is high-performing. Recently launched, this jacket is a testament to how sustainable materials can shape outdoor gear without compromising quality—or so Zirkulu hopes. But in the unpredictable Irish weather, a jacket’s eco-credentials are irrelevant if it can’t withstand the elements. Over the past few months, we’ve been putting this innovative piece to the test to find out: Has Zirkulu been able to crack the code of sustainable design and truly deliver on performance?

Position in the Market

If you’re an environmentally-minded outdoor enthusiast who loves the idea of supporting a small Irish brand but doesn’t want to sacrifice performance, we think that the Zirkulu Endurance Shell could be for you. In a market crowded with high-priced options, many boasting complex features that might be overkill for the average hiker, the Zirkulu Endurance Shell delivers all the features you should look for in an outdoor shell with no sacrifices.

The jacket costs €250 on their website. This price point means that the jacket is punching above its weight in the market. Many of the jackets with similar specifications and features are much more expensive and many of them do not have the eco-boasts that the Zirkulu Endurance Shell has.

At the end of the day, a rain jacket in Ireland has one main job: keep you dry, sustainably if possible. Does the Zirkulu Endurance Jacket rise to the occasion?

Does the Jacket Keep You Dry?

The Zirkulu endurance rain jacket utilizes a unique blend of 58% sugarcane byproduct and 42% recycled plastic—a refreshing departure from the petroleum-based materials that dominate the market. While the brand is still new, their jacket has impressed with its water resistance in variable Irish weather, from misty trails to heavier showers. We found the waterproofing to hold up well under typical Irish conditions, while also proving to be comfortable for multi-hour wear.

When it comes to breathability, it’s all about the layering. For the best results, pairing the Zirkulu jacket with a quality base layer optimizes its comfort in varied conditions. While breathability might not match that of higher-end technical jackets, it’s sufficient for most moderate-intensity hikes.

Who are Zirkulu?

The Three F’s

When reviewing waterproof jackets, we like to evaluate them through the Three F’s: Fabric, Fit, and Features.

Fabric

The Zirkulu endurance rain jacket’s fabric composition is truly unique. With its sugarcane-derived material, this jacket avoids fossil fuel-based synthetics while maintaining technical reliability. The exterior has a durable finish that repels water effectively and, most importantly, does not rely on harmful PFCs or other environmentally damaging chemicals.

Fit

This jacket has a relaxed yet technical fit. It would be ideal for layering on chilly days. The cut is quite similar to some of the higher-end mountaineering jackets we have tested in the past. The sleeves extend beyond the wrist, while the waist covers the first few inches below the beltline. Both of these prevent leakage in torrential rain. For an all-round hiking jacket, this cut works well.

Features

Zirkulu keeps it simple with a focus on essentials. The jacket has an adjustable hood, a crucial feature for dealing with the frequent wind and rain. The jacket also features good-sized pit zips for ventilation which is vital for an Irish jacket. A small chest pocket fits a phone perfectly and the taped front zip keeps the rain from seeping through.

Who is This Jacket For?

If you’re a hiker, walker, or outdoor enthusiast looking for a rain jacket that performs reliably in wet weather, the Zirkulu Endurance rain jacket is a strong contender. Its environmentally sustainable design and extremely reasonable price point gives it an edge over the competition in our eyes. Whether you are scaling summits, following trails or just looking to get through the next rain shower dry, the Zirkulu Endurance Shell is a great pick!

Is It Worth the Price?

At its current price point, the Zirkulu jacket represents excellent value. The jacket costs €250 on Zirkulu’s website which puts it in a competitive category of rain jackets. Within this category we believe that based on the features alone the Endurance Shell is one of the best. When you add the environmental responsibility of this jacket it becomes a no-brainer. For those seeking a waterproof jacket that is as thoughtful about its impact as it is about performance, Zirkulu’s endurance rain jacket is well worth considering.