Many years ago, Fjällräven and Gore-Tex were among the first brands in Europe to collaborate to produce waterproof clothing using Gore-Tex.
After a while, the two brands parted ways over sustainability goals, with Fjällräven using a proprietary membrane called EcoShell in its best waterproof jackets, earning eco-certification in exchange for outright performance.
Back in 2025, Gore-Tex phased out PFAS, rekindled its partnership with Fjällräven, and introduced the GTX series, which is PFAS-free and uses Gore-Tex epE membranes.
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Fjällräven claims it delivers higher performance and durability while maintaining the Swedish brand’s strong commitment to sustainability and the environment, and is backed by Gore’s “Stay Dry Guarantee.”
I previously tested the Ecoshell Keb and liked the fit and feel of the shell, but found it to struggle in properly wet conditions, so I hope the Keb GTX can combine all the best parts of the Ecoshell version with Gore-Tex’s legendary performance to create the ultimate jacket.
Fjällräven Keb GTX Jacket
Price and availability
The Keb GTX can be purchased directly from Fjallraven or most outdoor retailers including Trekkit, Cotswold Outdoors, Tiso, John Lewis, and Nordic Outdoor. Retailing at £550/€650/$600, it is available in UN Blue, Black, Dark Navy and Deep Forest for both men and women.
Main features
Keb has been a mainstay of the Fjällräven range for years, serving as the Swedish brand’s waterproof shell for everything it does. Overall it was great. The use of EcoShell, which is free of the “permanent chemicals” (PFAS) used in Gore-Tex membranes at the time, provides breathability, a snug fit, and no harmful chemicals.
One downside to the Ecoshell Keb was that it gained eco certification in exchange for outright performance, but this became evident when the heavens opened.
Gore-Tex is developing a new membrane called ePE that eliminates e-PTFE, an eternal chemical that causes significant environmental damage. Gore-Tex claims its new ePE membrane is lighter and thinner than traditional ePTFE, equally durable, and has a lower carbon footprint than ePTFE.
Fjällräven has fallen into the trap of trading sustainability for performance in the past, but will the introduction of the Gore-Tex ePE membrane change that? Absolutely.
(Image credit: Matt Buckley)
I tested the Keb GTX on a particularly soggy multi-day hiking trip through the Lake District, where it rained two out of three days. There’s no better place to test your waterproof jacket.
Although Fjällräven does not publish figures regarding waterproofness or breathability ratings, Gore claims that the waterproofness of its ePE membrane has a hydrostatic head rating of 28,000mm, which is comparable to upcoming e-PTFE-based membranes.
Gore doesn’t have official figures for breathability, but independent testing led by export industry Hohenstein rated it as “very breathable,” the highest rating available.
When I took off the Keb GTX at the end of each day, the midlayer was completely dry, no water leaked through the jacket, and sweat was effectively absorbed through the membrane. This jacket was so breathable that I wore it for two days straight. Even when trudging uphill, I didn’t feel overheated, and even when a rain shower passed overhead, I didn’t feel wet.
(Image credit: Matt Buckley)
Aside from the new Gore-Tex membrane, much of the Keb GTX remains similar to the Ecoshell version. I like the extended length of the arms and back. This provides extra protection and prevents water from beading off the jacket and directly into the waistband of your pants, or exposing your wrists when you reach over your head.
The Keb GTX has plenty of pockets. There are two chest pockets that are accessible when wearing a harness or backpack, and an internal zippered pocket for valuables.
However, there are some differences between the Ecoshell and Gore-Tex versions. The updated jacket ditches the upper arm pocket, which was primarily used as a ski pass pocket, but adds pit zips, which I think is a worthy swap.
I’ve found that jackets are very breathable when layered correctly, but if you’re doing a strenuous workout, it’s great to be able to regulate your body temperature without having to take the jacket off.
(Image credit: Matt Buckley)
The hood design has also been revised, with a new system of elastic cinch cords providing a snug fit that’s very welcome when riding through the harsh Lake District weather. The top of the hood is also moldable, so it can be folded out of the way if needed.
When you put both versions of the jacket side by side, there’s not much difference in the look or feel of the fabric. Although the Ecoshell feels a little softer, the Gore-Tex Kev’s 70D face fabric doesn’t have the scratchy feel of the more durable Gore-Tex shell. Fjällräven uses recycled nylon as its face fabric, which is more durable than the polyester used in the Ecoshell version.
Fjällräven has also updated its Bergtagen jacket with Gore-Tex. This is a tougher, more hardcore jacket designed for use beyond the treeline. Think high mountain climbing or trekking in the North Pole.
verdict
The Keb GTX replaces the Ecoshell version and is a good value upgrade in my opinion at only a slight increase in price, but it’s hard to ignore the hefty price tag.
While it’s true that there are many other Gore-Tex jackets available for 1/2 the price of the Keb GTX, I think it’s important to remember who this jacket is for. Totally overkill to pack for walking the dog or as a first-aid layer in case of light rain.
(Image credit: Matt Buckley)
The Keb GTX is designed to be worn in situations where you don’t have the courage to go outside, but are miles from anywhere on a multi-day trip and it rains for days on end and you have to keep moving.
It provides amazing protection from wind and rain, yet is also breathable for climbing mountains. Fjällräven is committed to making gear that will last for years to come, and the Keb GTX is a great example of that. Please treat it with care. Then it might be the last jacket you buy this decade.
Please also consider
My favorite jacket for the past few years has been the 66 North Hornsteadir. Combining Gore-Tex Pro and stretch, this jacket is very comfortable and performant, but overkill for most days in the mountains. It’s a little more expensive than the Keb GTX’s £595, but it kept me dry through some nasty conditions. Check it out at 66North.
A more budget-friendly option is the very popular Rab Kangri, which still uses an ePE membrane that provides good waterproofing, but be aware that it is quite heavy and not as breathable as other jackets. It’s still expensive at £340, but retailers often sell it at a discount. Visit Rab for more information.
