DECADES ago, most mountain enthusiasts had a single waterproof jacket for everything from walking to ice climbing to lightweight adventures. But equipment is far more specialised now, which means we have unprecedented choice if we want to pick up multiple items for multiple uses – or just choose one jacket that really fits what we love to do best.
The fortress-like protection of a heavyweight mountain shell can’t be beaten for winter conditions or heavy-duty use. And the truly ultralight shells, often coming in at 200g or less, are there for those who demand the lightest options. Is there a happy medium, suitable for most UK hillwalkers and backpackers? Enter the lightweight waterproof…
What do we mean by ‘lightweight’? Anything between about 300g and 450g hits the sweet spot for a lot of British three-season use. A 300g jacket doesn’t weigh much and takes up little space in your pack when not needed, but is protective enough to perform if the weather turns worse than expected. Such jackets pull ahead of ultralight shells in two key areas: performance and design. Fabric is usually more waterproof and breathable, and it will usually last longer too. In terms of design, most products in this category offer a more protective hood that will keep you drier and more comfortable in driving rain. You’ll probably get more pockets too, and the fit may be better for colder conditions when you’ll want a midlayer on underneath.
In short, a lightweight jacket should be all you need in summer – and will most likely cover 80% of eventualities from spring through to autumn. If you’re looking for something more durable for sustained heavy-duty use, or for winter mountaineering, choose a heavier winter hardshell.
WOMEN’S LIGHTWEIGHT WATERPROOF JACKETS
by Lara Dunn
TESTING CONDITIONS
Lara tested these waterproof jackets from December through to March in extraordinarily wet conditions varying from sub-zero temperatures to mid-teens, on day hikes in the Malvern Hills, Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains.
