TESTING CONDITIONS
Chris wore the jackets on low- and high-level walks in the Cairngorms and Monadhliath hills in autumn and winter, often in rain and sometimes in blizzards. He describes himself as 5ft 8in tall with a stocky build and short legs.
BEST BUY
Outdoor Research Helium AscentShell
£425
330g (L)
low weight, breathability
expensive, front hood adjustment
Materials:bluesign-approved AscentShell and Pertex Shield Air Diamond Fuse 30D ripstop nylon
Hood: helmet-compatible, front and rear adjustment, stiffened and wired peak
Front closure: YKK AquaGuard zip with internal flap
Underarm/side zips: no
Pockets: 2 handwarmer, external & internal chest, 2 inner stretch mesh
Hem: adjustable drawcord
Cuffs: Velcro
Sizes: men S-XXL (no direct women’s version; nearest equivalent is Women’s MicroGravity AscentShell Jacket, £265)
AscentShell is Outdoor