LIGHTWEIGHT JACKETS

Lightweight waterproof jackets are ideal for summer showers, but will they keep you dry in long spells of heavy rain? Emily Woodhouse tries out some of the best on Dartmoor

- Emily Woodhouse

MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT GARWHAL (M/F) 
£190; mountain-equipment.co.uk

The Garwhal looks and feels like a waterproof designed for battling mountain weather, but with a lighter material and slightly pared-down design. The Gore-Tex Paclite fabric is definitely waterproof. I tested it on an apocalyptically wet day on Dartmoor and stayed dry.

The Garwhal is fairly breathable, although if you're working up a sweat for a long time the lack of underarm venting could be an issue. It has a slimmer fit than other mountain jackets in the test, but there is still room for a fleece underneath. A broad stiffened peak and three toggles mean the excellent hood stays close to your face and is deep enough to hide in away from the elements. The two long and narrow chest pockets utilise most of the front panel; in a women's size eight the pocket was just wide enough to get an OS map in and out. The pocket zips start at chest height so are compatible with a rucksack harness. The main zip is easy to use with an internal storm flap. The pockets don't have storm flaps and not 100% waterproof in bad weather.

VERDICT: Lightweight, with everything you need in a jacket. ✪✪✪✪✪

HELLY HANSEN LOKE (M/F)
£120; hellyhansen.com

The Loke is designed for hiking, camping, commuting and trekking, so can be considered an all-rounder. It seems to be for short, lower-level hikes; for example, the lack of peak on the hood means you get a damp face in mountain winds.