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Why the Forclaz MT100 is Still Trending in 2026
If you have spent any time on outdoor gear forums or social media recently, you have likely seen the Decathlon Forclaz MT100 Puffer Jacket. Despite being on the market for years, it has maintained its status as a viral sensation well into 2026. Why? Because it represents the holy grail of hiking gear: high performance at a fraction of the cost of premium brands.
The MT100 is a down-filled jacket that offers an incredible warmth-to-weight ratio. It is RDS (Responsible Down Standard) certified, packable into its own pocket, and designed to withstand temperatures down to -5°C. In a world where technical puffers can easily exceed $400, the Forclaz MT100 remains the "budget king," making high-quality outdoor adventures accessible to everyone from casual campers to serious thru-hikers.
Why Australians Should Buy from the US Store
While Decathlon does have a presence in Australia, savvy shoppers often look toward the US market for several reasons. In 2026, the US store frequently carries a wider variety of colors and a more consistent stock of popular sizes that sell out quickly in local Australian warehouses. Additionally, seasonal sales in the Northern Hemisphere often align perfectly with the start of the Australian winter, allowing you to snag a bargain exactly when you need it.
However, many US retailers, including Decathlon USA, may have restrictive shipping policies or offer prohibitively expensive direct shipping to Australia. This is where using a reliable package forwarder becomes essential for Australian outdoor enthusiasts who want the best gear without the regional limitations.
How to Buy from the USA: A Step-by-Step Guide
Buying gear from across the Pacific is simpler than it sounds. If you are wondering how it works, here is the cheat sheet for a seamless experience:
- Sign Up: Create an account with comGateway to receive your very own US shipping address.
- Shop: Visit the Decathlon USA website and add your Forclaz MT100 (and maybe some extra hiking socks) to your cart.
- Checkout: Use your provided US address as the shipping destination during checkout.
- Declare and Ship: Once your package arrives at the US warehouse, you will be notified. You can then choose your preferred shipping method to Australia.
Using comGateway ensures that you have a physical presence in the US market, allowing you to bypass shipping restrictions and take advantage of US-only promotions.
Understanding Shipping Costs and Rates
One of the biggest concerns for Australians importing gear is the cost of transit. To avoid any surprises, it is highly recommended to use a shipping calculator before you finalize your purchase. This tool allows you to input the weight and dimensions of the puffer jacket (which is notably light, usually around 290g for a size medium) to get an accurate quote.
When comparing international shipping rates, remember that the Forclaz MT100 is highly compressible. This is a massive advantage for international shipping because it takes up very little volume. You can often bundle other small items with your jacket to maximize the value of your shipping fee, as the first kilogram is typically the most expensive.
Australian Customs and GST Considerations
When shipping from USA to Australia, you must keep local import regulations in mind. As of 2026, the Australian government requires Goods and Services Tax (GST) to be paid on most imported goods. For orders under AUD $1,000, the process is generally straightforward, but the 10% GST is usually collected at the point of sale or by the freight forwarder.
| Item Value | Duty/GST Status |
|---|---|
| Under AUD $1,000 | 10% GST applies; usually no import duty. |
| Over AUD $1,000 | GST + Import Duty + Processing fees apply. |
Since the Forclaz MT100 is a budget-friendly item, you will almost certainly stay well below the $1,000 threshold, making the customs process relatively painless for individual buyers.
Final Verdict: Is the Import Worth It?
If you are looking for a jacket that punches way above its weight class, the Decathlon Forclaz MT100 is unbeatable. By sourcing it from the USA, you gain access to better stock levels and exclusive 2026 colorways that might not hit Australian shores for months. By utilizing a reliable package forwarder, you can bridge the gap between US retailers and your doorstep in Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth with ease.
Ready to upgrade your winter wardrobe? Check the international shipping rates today and see how affordable it is to bring this viral puffer home.
