ACT1 NORAGI JACKET: REVIEW
FOREWORD
I have to say, I have a huge soft spot for Japanese culture, and when I was offered a chance to review a modern take on the classic Noragi jacket by the local brand ACT1 I jumped at the chance.
Many readers might wonder - what exactly is a Noragi jacket? Let me elaborate a bit.
In essence, the Noragi is a Japanese workwear jacket with an oversized style, dropped shoulders, and an open front. Many might mistake it for kimono (worn mostly by women and being more formal) but you would not be wrong to describe the Noragi as a cardigan, shirt, jacket, or a comfort blanket :)
Traditionally worn by workers and farmers the jacket quickly become synonymous with hard work and thus needed to be functional and durable. Like all the best workwear styles, it’s become a streetwear favorite (just take a look at how many fashion enthusiasts wear Carhartt jackets yet have no clue how to hold a hammer :)) and thanks to its simple and relaxed shape more people are incorporating Noragi jacket into their life.
WHO IT SUITS
Anyone who enjoys Japanese-style clothing with a modern twist
Minimalists looking for a stylish versatile piece that can be worn on both sides
WHO IT DOESN’T
Conservatives who are not ready for a loose fit or unusual silhouette
Those who want a universal piece that will go with anything might find it tricky to incorporate ACT1 Noragi jacket
ABOUT THE JACKET
* PRICE: $216
* COLOR OPTIONS: Black/Blue, White/White
* COMPOSITION:
Upper material: 100% polyester with DWR
Lining: 100% polyester
Insulation: Hollowsoft
Finishing: 98% cotton, 2% elastane
COMFORT
The interpretation of the Noragi jacket by ACT1 has an unmistakable oversized fit that even in Medium size looked like Large or even Extra Large.
The knitted collar made wearing the jacket a pleasure and actually reminded me of a classic MA-1 bomber jacket from Alpha Industries.
Great for layering and offering an excellent range of motion I found the fit to be quite comfortable.
While I had no issues with the cut and fit of the jacket, what puzzled me is the appropriate weather to wear it. Allow me to elaborate. You see, this version has quite serious insulation and would normally be worn in sub-zero temperatures based on the insulation alone, however, the deep V-neck would take in cold wind and elements quite fast unless mitigated by a turtleneck, scarf, etc that would cover the exposed area. As a result, it was somewhat tricky to be comfortable wearing this jacket in cold weather due to v-neck exposure and at the same time it was not great in warm weather - the insulation is quite substantial and made me hot, especially under direct sunlight.
This insulation point is partially mitigated by the fact that the jacket can be worn on both sides. I found the black side up to offer the most warmth, while the blue side was a tad less warm.
So the comfort is a mixed bag, on one side roomy cut and unrestrictive design was great and refreshing, on the other hand, the insulation of the jacket somewhat contradicted the exposed deep v-neck.
To sum up, the comfort is great but the jacket requires a bit of thought to pick the right weather to be comfortably worn at.
DESIGN & FEATURES
At first glance the jacket is very simple and minimalistic, however, it does have a few surprises up its sleeve.
First of all, the noragi is reversible and as such can be worn on both sides - this is an amazing feature that not only doubles the look of the jacket but also helps adapt to the changing weather better. The black nylon side has a DWR finish and repels water fine. I found myself wearing the blue side out when it was getting warm, basically taking all the insulation outside :) Also, the black side is very stealthy and minimal while the bright blue definitely has more character and is also complemented by the large NPO Act.1 print on the back.
I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of organization and how well it was integrated into the jacket.
There are two large inner horizontal zippered pockets as well as two inside pockets near the collar. These made carrying my wallet, phone, AirPods, spare mask, and keys are a breeze. Nothing was bulging or creating discomfort.
There is also a utility pocket on the sleeve reminiscent of the already mentioned MA-1 bomber from Alpha Industries.
The hardware is mostly represented by the cobrax button and magnetic clasps - all look minimal and perform well.
WHAT’S HOT
Unique fit and style
Being reversible, the jacket offers 2 distinct looks
Great build quality and materials
Warm and comfortable
Out of sight organization is great when you need it and does not get in the way when you don’t
WHAT’S NOT
Requires somewhat thoughtful selection of pieces to be worn with not just in style but in terms of a weather
The black side collects dust quite easily
A somewhat baggy silhouette might not work for everyone
VERDICT
ACT1 created a very interesting piece that challenges what the daily jacket can be. Warm, comfortable, and with a unique look - the ACT1 Noragi jacket takes the classic Japanese piece and adapts it for modern urban needs. Being reversible, this jacket also doubles the look and style of the jacket - that alone is a huge advantage for those who go minimal with their wardrobe and want to have a few items as possible, focusing more on modularity, quality, and versatility.
The high quality of the materials and build make it easy to recommend this jacket to anyone who is not afraid to stand out from the crowd and appreciates versatile pieces with a Japanese touch. Just be prepared for the loose fit of the jacket and layer it according to the weather.