2023 winner
Keela Prosport Jacket
£159.95
(Image courtesy of Keela)
Our verdict
Keela jackets are tested out on the hills and mountains of Scotland, and, as Frank Sinatra might have said if he was an outdoor gear reviewer, if they can make it there, they can make it anywhere. So, start spreading the news. The Prosport jacket is number one, top of the list, head of the heap, king of the hill... you get the idea. It's good.
For a start, it's waterproof, windproof and highly breathable. They should all be a given in a jacket, really, but isn't always the case.
The outer fabric can stretch four ways for excellent freedom of movement and the System Dual Protection (SDP) technology protects against heat loss and removes the need to wear an extra layer to stay warm. For those of us who don't appreciate the trend for skinny-fit outdoor clothing, the regular fit is welcome.
With lots of other features packed in, you get lots of jacket for your money, here. All you need is a pair of those vagabond shoes to wear with it...
Commended
Jack Wolfskin Pack & Go Overhead
£130
(Image courtesy of Jack Wolfskin)
Our verdict
The trouble with walking in the UK is that you can never be sure what weather you're going to get from one minute to the next. What might start off as a beautiful, warm sunny day can quickly change to wet and cold... and then back again, just as quickly. A jacket like this overhead cagoule is ideal. It weighs just 230g and packs away in its own pocket, ready to be whipped out at the first sign of rain.
Commended
Berghaus Paclite Dynak
£170
(Image courtesy of Berghaus)
Our verdict
Lightweight and packable, this is another waterproof jacket that is the ideal companion for walks when the weather is changeable, which, let's face it, is all the time. Available in men's and women's specific styles, it features an adjustable hood, adjustable cuffs, easy-access zipped pockets and a water-resistant front zip.
