My worst nights outside were actually under a Fjellduken I found at a Norwegian farmer's house. Not because of the fjellduken, much more because I badly rolled my ankle and forgot that Norwegian weather changes A LOT. I kinda survived because of the fjellduken
Ive been using a Jerven Extreme for 7+ years and they really are a useful bit of kit.
Brilliant, great to here from an experienced user instead of a newbie like me. Thanks for commenting.
I've had mine since the late 80's, and it is ALWAYS with me when backpacking. It has been through some rough conditions and still going strong.
I have the exclusive. Great compact package and the ability to zip out the insulation doubles the usefulness!
That does look to be the ideal combination, Chris. Thanks for commenting.
I can't deny that it looks like a lifesaving bit of kit but I can't shake the feeling that I was just watching a Monty Python skit...
Bit of humour in there for sure. Like all Python you need to watch it more, it just gets funnier with repeat.
I have this with me everywhere in my backpack, since '09. It's a tarp, it's a shelter, it's a tent, it's a ground cover, it's a dog cooling blanket, it's a rain cover, it is everything you need when you need it and when you really really need it. get some paracord and some alu tent poles, and you're good.
Great for camouflage when hunting also keeps you dry and warm. Also used it as tarp over hammock and as a liner in the backpack to keep clothes dry.
This is the kit I used for my two years of training and 22 years as a reserve. The Norwegian Armed Forces FLO changed from "Jerven" to "Dovrefjell" as the prime supplier of these bags in 2019 (with the same measurements, quality and insulation factors). The upside is that the latter is half the price on the civilian market. The Jerven Hunter (Primaloft 60g. pr. m2, 102 x 220 cm, 1500 g) costs well over 400 EURO equivalent, while the newer Dovrefjell (Primaloft 60g. pr. m2, 102 x 222 cm, 1500 g) has a price of 200 EURO equivalent. This is the standard infantry bag, probably explaining why it also is clearly the best "bang for the buck" due to the high contracted production numbers.
The variant shown in this video (Jerven Original, 143 x 143cm) is over 200 EURO while the Dovrefjell (same measurements with the same reflective coating) variant is around 100 Euro.
For those who want to see the new Dovrefjell variants, here is a video from the Norwegian forces with the Cheif SERE instructor from the Army's Weaponschool (I can see he is an instructor at "NATO's Centre of Excellence - Cold Weather Operations" from his patch: commando dagger with a snowflake) introducing the new bags.
In the video, he is showing how to set up a low-signature pyramid tent shelter. (If you are curious - when he opens it up at the end, he demonstrates how one can use the setup in combination with a firepit). ua-cam.com/video/d_G2BmMSRac/v-deo.htmlsi=2slYGJm8Kmx9KjO9
(it is not subtitled, but at least you get to see the kit).
I have not tried the new Dovrefjell line, but remember that the Norwegian army has used the older Jerven variants for around 40 years, thus I guess you will get a (slightly) improved system at half the cost. The biggest difference to me seems to be that "Dovrefjell" comes with a real hood (and apparently not with the orange signal flag and the sleeves for the arms).
Unless you REALLY need the mountain camo (being superior in alpine/arctic/tundra conditions) I would consider the new Dovrefjell because of the price alone (and because this new camo will be better in 95% of terrain in Northern Europe (including doing surprisingly well above the Arctic tree-line from my little image-search).
For those interested in military use: The Dovrefjell 143x143 (not insulated) is standard for pilots and air crews. The 60-gram insulated 102-222 cm variant is a standard issue for the infantry, artillery and cavalry. The non-insulated 102-222 cm variant is the basic kit for Special Operations FSK/MJK and "Jeger-tropper" ("Hunter units": specialised ranger units) - but they obviously have all the bags to choose from depending on the mission, including the "Iglo" variant with 150 gram of Primaloft insulation)
The only issue I can see is that "Dovrefjell" does not seem to have international distributors. Yet, with the price difference, I surely would consider exploring private/direct import from Norway. (The only civilian retailer seems to be Magasinet.no) www.magasinet.no/friluftsliv/turutstyr/fjellduk.
Thank you for such an informative and well written comment. The hood is a great idea. The helsports with their zip in hood are good too. I had actually seen the videos you linked too before, but was confused by the pattern. All clear now. Cheers
They're really good. i know a couple of guys called Ken and Ryu who uses FJELLDUKEN constantly to great effect.
I have the large thermal lined version, had it for about 10 years now and though a bit bulky it is amazing. Two adults can fit in it, use as tarp etc. Recommended.
@@Fellmandave1 King Size. I would have gotten the smaller version but as a friend was selling for a great price I couldn’t say no 🙏
Nice, friends have the king size too. i have the tent end panels coming which it may be better for, we will see.
@Fellmandave1 I've not seen many reviews for the tent ends.
I've got 2 kingsize, a hunter and exclusive so looking to multi user the kingsize
Been using the insulated model for day hiking, hunting and camping for years. You might want to try the tent end pieces they sell, should be good fun.
Hi, great to hear from an experienced user. I have friends that are ex forces that introduced me to the concept. I confess at first I didn't quite 'get it', but now I'm convinced. Thanks again for commenting. Love your videos.
a bag is a very useful survival item. once you are out if the wind you prevent thermal loses due to wind, and heat also builds up inside it. condensation will need managing for best results.
So is the emergency blanket for 5-10 bucks. It looks cool, thought. I works use it to hide my backpack on the hills.
Came for the cool gear, stayed for excellent review and being her best friend.
Awesome, Thank you! I too love bacon and whisky, though not maybe at the same time.
Jerven do not mess about. I found a small defect in my hunter bag on the tie out there was no rivet. They just outright sent me a replacement. I call it 'the worm'.
Hahaha, brilliant. I'll try for that not to be an earworm for me. I have just posted a jerven Hunter overnighter. Have a look, and thanks for commenting, I really appreciate it.
Great review! Another must have for outdoor adventurers. Perhaps the most versatile bit of kit I have ever seen.
Good isn’t it. I have had one for a decade. Goes to the arctic with me, use it as a summer sleep system, hammock pod, for sleeping well on sloping ground, riding a snowmobile, arctic bed for the pulk, stretcher. I love the thing.
Hi Susanne, great to hear from an experienced user. I have just subbed to your channel as you and I have a LOT in common. The sabre sparring for instance, I have a first Dan in kendo, not to mention the mix of outdoor sports. I look forward to looking through your videos.
You’re an influencer Dave. I bought one for me and one for the wife after watching your video and I’m awaiting delivery of our Whitby warmers. Not used it outdoors yet but you can feel the quality and on first try on in the house you can tell how warm it will be. Still not sure which way round is best for the sleeves.
Thats funny, I cant even influence the kids to get out of bed in a timely fashion! I am sure you will enjoy the Jervens, your wife sounds brilliant if she wanted one too. i am sure you will figure the sleeve holes, cheers!
@@Fellmandave1 My wife’s a photographer and she saw the benefits of using it for wildlife photography to keep dry and warm while sitting outside somewhere in the rain.
You missed out on some nice food there, mate, when you cut down that bramble growth 17:53 the new shoots taste very good and they're really good for you too. Something to keep in mind for later :) . Lewis from the UK Wildcrafts UA-cam channel has a foraging video covering this called, First Forage of Spring.
I like the idea it breaks your body profile up if you dont want to be seen.
I wont pay that price and i can get the same effect from my cammo poncho and if i want to be completely storm proof i get in my bivi bag.
Yes exactly.
I personally think this whole ‘stealth ‘ thing has become, well a ‘thing ‘ I have used the usual coloured outdoor kit ; Karrimor, Etc and feel no need to be ‘invisible’
Ok if you are wild camping in locations where you ought not to be then yes blending in makes sense . Otherwise i could care less !
Yep, I still use my cheap Mil-Tec poncho when it's howling down as it covers my Bergen too and also doubles up as a small tarp. I have actually slept in it up against a tree in Storm Katie. when there was near to none visibility to find camp. My Pussers Goretex bivi bag lines my Bergen and doubles as a dry bag but it's big enough to throw myself in and my kit if the weather is a bit tetchy. I'm layered right up too so don't want to overheat I just remove a layer. The Jerven is a superb piece of kit though and if I had the funds I'd try it. And yes Unfortunately 'Stealth' has to be a 'Thing' now in the UK. All this land of the free but trying to get your head down at night in the woods without getting agro is getting harder every year!
it is also worth checking out the Lalizas Alusafe-T.. silver not cammo & £15... Designed for arctic lifeboat use.
The sleeve covers are sliding down. It might be very useful if connected to each other by an elastic length that goes behind your back so they keep each other right.
Fantastic David! YKK always a sign of quality! I'm always suspicious with non discript zip brands. If you understand where I'm coming from they're just as bad as the ever so common shrink inflation! Model in review too small for me so looking forward to a full review of the bigger models before I take the plunge. Thanks David!
Hi David. Thanks for commenting! I have the fjellduken hunter now, too, ...if you are around this weekend. May be camping
It’s just a bivvy bag.
I have a military one in gore tex that is similar to the one you have there but without the silver lining.
What a beautiful dog, she modelled it so well ❤
Thanks John. Check out my rain storm video and see the tent conversion. Still just a bivi bag?
I use something similar, särämä tst thermal cloak, great reinforcement clothing or shelter for the winter camps;)
Yes I have seen those, not readily available in the UK. Thanks for commenting.
I can see some very good uses for this, not sure if I think its worth that price tag.
Thats a personal decision, but should be a long lasting item. Compared to the insulated models and those similar by other manufacturers, it is good value. Thanks for commenting.
Dave I have to say the dogs face is one of “can we just go home”, great video and great discovery of a very useful product well done
I know, the poor dog, I am promising her some easier camps! Glad you like the Jerven.
Used the insulated with two western mountaneering sleeping bags in -30°C. Toast
I just got back from the lake district. Could have done with this kit as it rained every day.😂
I have the Helsport fjellduk pro. Best in test of the non-insulated ones
Hi Mark. I have the helsport fjellduken extreme too, but very large and heavy. It is also in mountain camo, but I feel the Jerven mountain camo is far superior if that's your thing. Where did the test appear to which you are referring and ftom where dud you purchase?
@@Fellmandave1 it was tester by a norwegian hiking magazin. They had both jerven and helsport in the same test in norwegian mountains ( winter -25Celscius) helsport won the test
Because of the lining id be interested in seeing the thermal signature reduction
That is an amazing bit of kit... think we'll worth the price in the long run..
Question...... would that go over you whilst having a rucksack on aswell?
And that whitby warmer.... gonna have to get one of them...
Very informative video, thanks for this
Hi Nathan, thanks for commenting. I have uploaded a short tonight to answer that very question. Have look but yes, no problem .
Been for sale in sport outlets for more than 40 years. At least in my neck of the woods. You can get one, suitably sized, for your dog as well.
@@Fellmandave1 Jerven is a norwegian company. So there you have it.
Looks a great bit of kit but a bit steep in price for me. I wonder if you could use it as a makeshift hammock under quilt ??
Hi Jeff, the insulated ones, such as the jerven hunter, work better for that. Even more pricey though.
Excellent review of a piece of kit that I didn’t know about. However at the price point I will never own either
@@Fellmandave1
No body ever spent that much on me as a Chrimbo present 🎁
Great video - but can't help thinking this is just another form of ponco? It's also very expansive?
Thanks. Like a lot of stuff like this, the cost is in the materials, for instance, leather reinforced eyelets. You've got to ove that rock camo too!
Or avoiding the gendarmerie in the alps 😂 I’m gonna have to look at one
Very cool 🏕️👍🏽
Thanks for the review, looks amazing ! Could you please confirm model and size ? Greetings from Geneva, Switzerland.
Switzerland is where I wanted to holiday this summer, did not get my way alas. I just long to stand at the foot of the eiger and the matterhorn , even climb on them a little. I have done some mountaineering, but it's been a while. Anyway, thanks for taking the time to comment. It's the jerven original, 143 cm. For very cold conditions, I recommended the jerven hunter, I received one this week and will be reviewing soon.
Awww Look at that fuzzy woofer
Its been said she has not got one hair in the same direction. She's next to me right now, looking fuzzy.
@@Fellmandave1 fuzzy wire haired woofers are the best .. .. they need baths more than NORMAL Doggos .. cause they seem to attract more smellies
Actually we just brush her and we never bath her. She always smells lovely, like a sweet horse.
@@Fellmandave1 hehehehehe spoken like a true doggo parent …. I live in NYC .. and say hello to every 4 legged friend i see .. i ask them if they are good dogs from 30 feet .. and watch for an answer ..
A video to advertise a pure product of the neoliberal consumer society..... Expensive, with a zip that is a point of fragility, versatility for the rescue but a gene for the normal daily..... In short, invest in a quality jacket type Swazi at 20000mm or Helikon tex Squall given at 30000mm! At least it will be comfortable to use and most useful in a situation of rupture of normality or otherwise, in an extreme situation!
@@Fellmandave1 Very very expansive for a supplement.....You'd better put the money for a better jacket !
@@Sentinelledederisioneven the best jacket in the world won't double as a Bivy. This is a Bivy that you can wear. The properly insulated one is an artic version of a woobie.
The Jerven beats both on HH, being completely impermeable. The Swazi and the Helikon Tex also have zips, so not sure what point you are making. Also, you can fit your whole body inside the jerven if necessary whereas you can't with either of those jackets. Therefore it also wins for extreme situations. Finally, if you are walking in these conditions, you should have a good coat anyway.
@@bushgear4245 There is no zip on Swazi but you're all right for the zip on Helikon tex Squall which you cary all the time..........Buy, buy on néo libérale society ! The idéa of peppers is not to buy all......all the time !
I have one of those catalytic hand warmers, it's a Zippo one and I try to love it but it works about one time in ten, it's useless. I might have to try the Whitby Warmer instead if you find it works well.
It has been consistent for me. It helps to place a little fluid on the wick and light that to a flame. But yes, if it has oxygen, it works. I probably have used it about 20 times. Thanks for commenting.
amazing poncho looks high quality material
question what breed is your dog?
This looks good but way too expensive for me . Can’t think of why and when it would be useful. I am either walking or in tent / etc .
My thoughts too when I first saw my friends using it. Then I tried one.........
Great videos! I have one question, please. I have the Hunter, but the Original, with half the weight, is an interesting piece of kit. Can you use the Original for sleep like the Hunter? Thanks!
@@Fellmandave1 Understood, the zipper can only be closed by bringing the two narrower sides together. However, is there no zipper on the longer side? It would be a bag measuring 286 cm in length and 71.5 cm in width, certainly too long and a bit narrow, but usable in an emergency.
Are you pining for the fjords?
Soo up my street, with our family wcs.
Actually, the most used word for duk in norwegian is table cloth. 😊
And the English word for jerven is wolverine, so you know it is a bad ass product 👍
Haha, it would make a very pretty tablecloth, like eating off a big rock! Ringperm, do I know you? Just after the pole rumour comment on the short. Cheers!
@@Fellmandave1 No sir, we are not acquainted. But words travel fast on the book of faces and as a Nortent owner myself I read alot of Nortent content.
And if I may be so bold, if you have experienced a failure with the tent, I do think you ought to make a video about it. None of my business, of course and far being from me to tell you what to do.
But there are so much critisism going around towards youtubers receiving free kit and only reporting about the good stuff, that I think you ought to at least mention it. Poles do break, wheather it is from a Hilleberg or a Naturehike. And it is bound to happen to a Nortent as well.
Just my two cents, or øre which would be the scandinavian equivallent. :)
@@Fellmandave1 if I may be bold once again, I have found myself rather curious about that tent fish gimmick (if that is the correct word for it 🙂) is there a story behind it, or is it just a private joke?
@ringperm Tentfish found me on a hillside a few years ago. Tentfish decided to come on camps. Tentfish is the only one known of its kind. Maybe it wants to find its owner, to be then The ONE Tentfish to bind them.
It’s an insulated poncho that’s all
Much more versatile. And how many of those do you see? Wait for my next video, Andrew.
So if you’re not a tactical operator why didn’t you go for the blaze orange ?
It's a good question, but in England, wild camping is illegal, but tolerated, so it pays to be discrete. It's for the same reason that we use blended colours for tents. In my recent rain storm video, I was 50m from a public path frequented by kids on bikes, I didn't want anyone to know I was there. So,whilst I am not an operator, it pays to blend in, but I did explain that in the video. Thanks for watching.
I got two, so whoever goes hiking with me can borrow it and stop being jealous.
Dave, great multi location reviews so thanks for sharing. You had to bail with your tent. was it the new Vern 1 by any chance?
Vern 2 in severe conditions. Video out Sunday evening. You are welcome and thanks for commenting.
Coming again with a silly question ;) ! In chapter 4, you mentioned that you get a shelter which size is 286cm x 143cm, I don't get it, as the Jerven is showing a 143cm x 143cm size in their website.. Do I miss a point ? Thanks for your time and reply.
143 is its folded over zipped together size, then if you unzip it and open it up it is 286 x 143. I understand the confusion
@@Fellmandave1 definitely, I need some holidays. Thanks for the details !
No Norwegian outdoors man would use that gear. We just curl up and let the snow cover us. 😁 Like a husky or a Norwegian forest cat would do. Otherwise great video.
I have a Bolivian blanket.
Is this a code message? Am I supposed to respond,, "And I have a Romanian dog".
That looks like the Vern 2. What issues developed? Great video and looks like great kit.
Hello my friend. Thanks for commenting. Vern 2 video out Sunday evening.
A little confused, why would a fell walker not want to be seen ???
Wild camping is illegal in the UK and wild life watching, to give 2 examples. A typical fell walker would be happy to be seen however.
Like the video?
Then please buy me a coffee and help my local Scout unit acquire some good camping gear: www.buymeacoffee.com/fellmandave
Similar (concept) to what they used to hide & look like a rock, in Lord of the Rings…
Yes, Miles! I can guarantee that these were not woven by Galadriel and her maidens, however.
£159 FOR A PONCHO WITH ARMS THAT ARNT ATTACHED AND A ZIP THAT LEAKS?
Agreed -- save yourself a lot of money and just buy a military style poncho. I worked in alpine and temperate rain forest environments all over the world in a previous life and that's what worked for me too.
Nice vid mate.but this stuff in bad conditions is useless.i dont know anyone or myself who has used this stuff in the army.good water proofs are prob better.the claims these companies make are at best questionable.
Thanks
Hi David, this is meant as a supplement to waterproofs, definitely not a replacement. Certainly, this has not been issued to the British military to the best of my knowledge, except to soecial forces, but the Jerven and one's like it are very well known in the Scandinavian countries. It is ex British military friends who introduced me to this idea of the thermal cloak. I appreciate that it might not appear effective, but once you try it, the possibilities emerge. Definitely useful for cold weather stops in rough weather.
My mediocre testing does not do it justice. The 30 year history is there. Think of it as a more effective, versatile bothy bag. Cheers and thanks for commenting.
Think I'd prefer to keep walking to stay warm rather than drag an extra kilo of material around with me....
And if there is a casualty? I tend to have a group leader/ parent mindset.
Carefully placing a tea light candle on the ground under your poncho will give you added warmth 07:17
Ask any Norwegian with military/hunting experience and they wil rant for hours
Yes, just a month ago, I and some friends had a long discussion about the jervenduk while we were at a party, we're all 20 and have been or are going into the military.
@Fellmandave1
@Fellmandave1 PS the most common use for the jervenduk is to wear it with your arms poking out while holding you're rifle, you can buy some ekstra sleeves for this purpose, it's very nice when you're sitting still on a post waiting for animals for example.
he needs a doggie hat :)
They have put the price up by £20 in two weeks. Not impressed.
@@Fellmandave1 thank you, Dave. I’ve found them elsewhere at a more competitive price. Thank you for a meaningful intro. Best, Chris.
Those sleeves look useless, I will stick with the snugpack.
@@Fellmandave1 To be fair, i skip watched that, I will watch it again properly with a cuppa.
$324? With rival gear at $20?
The Jerven original is half that, comparable gear from helsport and Sarma are similarly priced. You can also get a roll of bin liners for $3, it's a choice.
Dang expensive!!!!
@@Fellmandave1 ok, I ordered 2 tent ends...Im gonna see if I can zip them together to make a lavvu. Have you tried that?
Yes. I did it recently. I did a short and a full video. It says 'tentless' or something. About 4 videos ago. Have a look!
Could you use this as a sort of poncho over your pack
Yes Marty,will fit over the pack too. The one thing I did not show. Darn!
You can also buy arms and head extenders to actually make this as a poncho.i have two insulated ones myself
Never seen the head extender Chris. Does it zip in? I have seen hoods for the helsport one, that you can see me using on the msr windburner duo stove review, but not on the Jerven one.
The what bag?! The"J" is pronounced as "Y"!
If you're going to advertise these products, then at least exercise a semblance of due diligence...
very foolish !!!
Thanks for your comment. Foolish not to be more specific though, like the whole video was foolish?
Ha ha ha. What a load of overpriced crap. Lol. Hilarious. Cheers. 😂
I wasn't convinced either, until I saw my ex military friends sat out on winter camps all comfortable. You should try one Derek, but maybe not for you, but thanks for your perspective.
I used this during my military service in north Norway, it was litterally a lifesafer. It was a special kit for my unit. The Jervenduk has been tested for hyperthermal prevention in severe winter conditions, with great results. Obviuosly I bought one after my service.
Regarding the camouflage, I remember reading Jerven company sent actual mountain rocks to the pattern design company, to ensure correct color matching.
In summary: Fantastic kit for anyone going hiking in colder termperatures! It's rather expensive, but any serious hiker will love this very worthwhile investment! It'll turn a miserable trip into a cosy trip!!
Hi, great to hear about your original experience. Have you stuck with the original or have tried the insulated models?
@@Fellmandave1 I chose the extreme, 2.4m length with forest pattern. I wanted it for winter trips and hikes, where i planned to use it as a shelter for the kids when we were having hot chocolate breaks. The extreme is very well insulated, and is quite large and heavy, but it has been well worth the investment!!
The extreme is also warm enough to be used as a sleeping bag during the warm parts of the year. And during the cold season, it can also be used as an outer sleeping bag for added insulation.
The Jerven is the only military kit I still bring on longer hikes, and it should be in everyone backpack/bergen when hiking!
I find my hunter bag really time consuming to get bag in the carry bag, any tricks you can share on deploying it quickly / getting it packed away?
Stuff not roll. @@davef5916
@@Fellmandave1amen