Country Innovation

Raptor Waistcoat

£125 (around $154) www.countryinnovation.com

Packing more pockets than a pool hall – 15 to be precise – this classic waistcoat can store a huge amount of gear. Two expandable lower front pockets easily swallow a lens each, and a pair of chest pockets can house another two lenses. Behind these are spacious side-access slots that are ideal for maps or guide books, and if you fancy carrying a rain poncho or even a tablet, they can be stowed in huge internal and external rear pouches. Inner compartments provide a home for smaller accessories and valuables.

Military grade Rip-Tec ripstop fabric and rugged construction ensure the waistcoat can cope when fully loaded, and it repels water well. Other nice touches include shoulder padding and a substantial neck collar to help ease the strain of a camera strap or shoulder bag.

Sizes range from Small to XXXXL, and we found our Medium example shaped up pretty well.

Pros

Great design and attention to detail; generous storage pockets; waterproof

Cons

Not the most stylish choice; Traveller Jacket marginally better value

We say

If you prefer a waistcoat to a jacket, the Raptor is hard to beat Overall score