Table of Contents
- Understanding the Forclaz MT100 Craze in 2026
- Why UK Shoppers are Looking to US Stores
- Step 1: Secure Your US Shipping Address
- Step 2: Shop the Best US Outdoor Retailers
- Step 3: Calculate Your Total Landed Cost
- Step 4: Ship Your Jacket to the United Kingdom
- Step 5: Navigate UK Import Regulations and VAT
- Final Thoughts on the MT100
Understanding the Forclaz MT100 Craze in 2026
As we move through 2026, the "gorpcore" fashion movement has transitioned from a niche aesthetic to a mainstream staple. At the heart of this movement is the Decathlon Forclaz MT100 Puffer Jacket. Originally designed for high-altitude trekking, this jacket has become a viral sensation due to its incredible warmth-to-weight ratio and its surprisingly affordable price point.
The MT100 is celebrated for its 800-cuin down fill power, making it comfortable in temperatures as low as -5°C. In 2026, outdoor enthusiasts and city dwellers alike are praising its packable design, which allows the entire jacket to fold into its own pocket. While it has been a staple in European markets for years, the specific colorways and updated 2026 fits released in the United States have triggered a massive surge in demand from UK buyers who want the latest versions not yet available locally.
Why UK Shoppers are Looking to US Stores
You might wonder why a UK resident would buy a French-designed jacket from a US store. The answer lies in inventory and variety. In 2026, US retailers like Decathlon USA and major outdoor co-ops often carry exclusive "North American Edition" colors—such as the trending 'Deep Ivy' and 'Burnt Ochre'—that sell out instantly in the UK or aren't released there at all.
Furthermore, US holiday sales events like Memorial Day or Labor Day often see deeper discounts on outdoor gear than UK seasonal sales. By using a reliable package forwarder, savvy UK shoppers can take advantage of these US-only deals and inventory drops, ensuring they get the exact model and size they need.
Step 1: Secure Your US Shipping Address
The first hurdle in your journey is that many US retailers do not offer direct international shipping to the United Kingdom, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively high. To bypass this, you need a local US presence. This is where comGateway comes into play.
When you sign up, you are assigned a unique US shipping address at their warehouse. This allows you to shop at any US online store as if you were living in the States. Once your Forclaz MT100 arrives at the warehouse, it can be inspected, repacked, and prepared for its journey across the Atlantic. For frequent shoppers, exploring Prime membership benefits can offer even greater savings on storage and processing fees in 2026.
Step 2: Shop the Best US Outdoor Retailers
With your US address ready, it’s time to find your jacket. The primary source is the Decathlon US website, but you should also check major US outdoor retailers. During 2026, many of these stores have integrated "One-Click" US checkout systems that work seamlessly with freight forwarding addresses.
When checking out, simply enter your comGateway US address as the shipping destination. Pro-tip: Keep an eye out for "Free Shipping to Continental US" offers, which are common for orders over $50. This ensures the only major shipping cost you'll face is the international leg from the warehouse to your UK home.
Step 3: Calculate Your Total Landed Cost
Before you hit the final "buy" button, it is essential to understand the total cost of bringing the item into the UK. This includes the purchase price, the international shipping fee, and any potential UK duties. To avoid surprises, you should use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the weight of the MT100 (which is approximately 290g for a size medium).
Because the Forclaz MT100 is so lightweight, it is a prime candidate for affordable shipping. However, if you are buying multiple items, consider using a consolidation service to bundle your purchases into one box, significantly reducing the per-item shipping rate.
Step 4: Ship Your Jacket to the United Kingdom
Once your jacket arrives at the US warehouse, you will receive a notification. You can then log in to your dashboard to manage the final leg of the journey. When organizing shipping from USA to United Kingdom, you will have various courier options ranging from express (2-3 business days) to standard (5-10 business days).
Before the package is dispatched, ensure that your items do not fall under any restricted goods categories. While a puffer jacket is perfectly safe to ship, you might also like to check our guide on prohibited items if you are planning to include other outdoor gear like camping stoves or pressurized canisters in your shipment.
Step 5: Navigate UK Import Regulations and VAT
In 2026, the UK's import rules remain a critical factor for international shoppers. When your package arrives in the UK, it will be subject to Customs Clearance. For goods valued under £135, you typically won't pay Import Duty, but VAT (Value Added Tax) is usually collected at the point of sale or during the shipping process.
If your total order exceeds £135, be prepared to pay both VAT and Customs Duty. The courier will usually contact you to settle these fees before the final delivery to your doorstep. Using a transparent forwarding service helps ensure that all documentation is correctly filled out, reducing the risk of your trending Forclaz jacket getting stuck in customs at Heathrow or East Midlands airport.
Final Thoughts on the MT100
The Decathlon Forclaz MT100 Puffer Jacket remains one of the best value-for-money pieces of technical apparel available in 2026. By following this step-by-step guide and utilizing a reliable package forwarder, you can bypass local stock shortages and exclusive regional releases. Whether you're hiking the Scottish Highlands or commuting in London, getting your gear from the US has never been more accessible.
