5 Jackets to cover every mountain activity this spring
A lightweight waterproof shell is a key part of any layering system. Often during spring and summer adventures weight and packability are really important in a shell, but you still want the right features and performance when bad weather hits.
Without doubt there’s a big choice of lightweight shells on the market these days. I’ve picked a few of my favourites for different activities.
The Alpha FL Jacket is one of the best examples of why Arc’teryx lead the way when it comes to high-end outerwear. It strikes a great balance between weight and durability and is beautifully designed and constructed.
Made of light but deceptively durable 3 Layer Gore-Tex Pro fabric, the Alpha FL Jacket is aimed at alpine climbing and lightweight mountaineering. It has a protective helmet compatible hood, a large chest pocket and an athletic, articulated fit that still has room for layering underneath.
RRP £340
Norrona’s bitihorn range is aimed at those who like to move fast and light through the mountains. The bitihorn Gore-Tex Active 2.0 Jacket weighs less than 200g which is very light for a jacket with a 3 layer Gore-Tex construction.
Designed for lightweight hiking but equally good for trail running and biking, the bitihorn has a minimalist feature set to keep weight and bulk to a minimum. That said, it still has a chest pocket and a well designed adjustable hood.
RRP £339
7mesh are a fairly new brand, especially to the European market. They are based out of Squamish, BC in Canada and specialise in producing high-end bike wear. The mountains around their home are famously wet and the guys at 7mesh (some of whom are ex Arc’teryx employees) set out to make bike wear that can stand up to the harshest conditions.
The Renegade Jacket is the workhorse of the 7mesh line. Made of 3 Layer Gore-Tex Active it’s designed for both mountain and road biking and offers levels of protection, durability and breathability rarely found in bike specific clothing.
RRP £300
Montane have a long history of producing great running clothing. The Minimus series is aimed at trail and mountain running with the latest items in the range being the Minimus Stretch Ultra Jacket and Pull On. Smocks really work for running when a full length zip is often redundant so the Pull On version of the Minimus Stretch Ultra features here.
The Minimus Stretch Ultra is made from Pertex Shield 2.5 Layer - a very light, breathable and stretchy waterproof fabric. The garment itself is streamlined and simple; just what you want for running. It still has a proper hood for nasty weather though along with a chest pocket with electronics routing port. The fit is close and articulated and the stretchy fabric adds extra freedom of movement too. The whole things comes in at around 150g and is very packable - perfect for running in the mountains.
RRP £145
The Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket is an unassuming shell but it’s simple, lightweight and perfect for everyday use. The Torrentshell has been in the Californian brand’s range for decades now and there’s definitely a timeless feel to it.
Made with a 100% recycled nylon face fabric, the Torrentshell packs down very small and is light and breathable enough for active use in the mountains. To round it off the Torrentshell comes in a huge range of colours and at a very affordable price too.
RRP £110
Read more of Andy's reviews on his website.
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