Best Waterproof Jacket: Camping Awards 2024

WINNER – Best Waterproof Jacket 2024

Berghaus Vorlich

£300

(photo courtesy of Berghaus)

Why the Berghaus Vorlich?

Sitting majestically just to the south of Loch Earn, Ben Vorlich is one of Scotland’s best-known Munros and a very popular walking destination in the southern Highlands. It’s also exactly the sort of place you’d expect the new Vorlich jacket from Berghaus to come into its own.

Berghaus say it is “no nonsense” and is ideal for long days outdoors when the weather turns wet and windy. And you can be pretty sure that’s exactly what you’re going to get when you ascend the 985m to the summit of Ben Vorlich.

As popular with dog walkers as it is with hill walkers, Berghaus is always a reliable brand for UK conditions, and this Gore-Tex waterproof jacket has a robust shell that is designed for use throughout the year.

The breathable fabric has a PFC-free durable water-repellent face and it is packed with features, including an adjustable fixed hood; cuff and hem adjustment; two lower zipped pockets; and a zipped chest pocket. The women’s jacket weighs 442g at size 10 and a men’s medium weighs 520g.

Our verdict

With so many of the market-leading outdoor clothing brands coming from the US or Scandinavia, it’s nice to recognise a local company that’s doing things properly.

The Keela Arran wax-cotton jacket is part of its Legacy project and manufactured in Fife, with all-British fabric and insulation – meaning it has a small carbon footprint as well as supporting the UK economy. And, with care, Keela reckons the jacket will last for decades.

Our verdict

The Liddo is a Gore-Tex Paclite rain jacket that provides full protection from the rain and wind but is stripped to the bare essentials to make it as light as possible, without losing any performance. Available in the UK from retailer, Trekitt, this is perfect to stuff into your backpack if you’re going out for a walk on the hills.