Buying Guide
Gear
Expert advice on the kit that makes a difference
IT’S THAT FINE rain that soaks you through,” said Peter Kay about 20 years ago and, since then, it has been uttered by every British walker (often in their finest Bolton accent) who has ever found themselves in light drizzle…
Except that with walkers, these tiny droplets shouldn’t soak you through at all. In fact, the line for a walker might well be: “It’s that fine rain that taps the top of yer ’ood, then rolls into beads that drop on’t floor.”
That’s less catchy perhaps, but more accurate for those with a good waterproof jacket, which is without doubt one of the most important pieces of outdoor kit you can buy. It can turn a miserable experience into a pleasant one. It can inspire you to get walking when you otherwise wouldn’t dream of setting foot out the front door. And crucially, if you’re outside for long periods, it can prevent your body from getting cold, and all the problems that can cause.
There’s a broad range of jackets out there, from the very light ‘just in case’ ones to the heavy-duty rain shields that’ll protect you for hours, as well as jackets with insulation that do two jobs in one. The 12 we’ve chosen for this test aim to cover the full spectrum and should give you an overview of what’s on offer and what to expect.
About our reviews
We’ve chosen 12 waterproof jackets which should be available in shops and/ or online at the time of going to press. Nearly all are available in both men’s and women’s styles (indicated by these dots ). We rate each jacket on comfort (the feel and fit of it), performance (how it copes with rain and sweat), versatility (how adaptable it is) and value for money. We don’t select an overall winner, as no single option will suit every walker, but Matt and Lauren have each chosen a personal favourite and selected the one that represents best value for money.
Turn over to read the tests…
UP TO £100
HELLY HANSEN Seven J
RRP: £100 Target price: £50 For the price you can find this for, Helly Hansen gives you a great quality waterproof with a sleek design that you’d be just as ha
