Aysen jacket,

This is essentially a lightweight (400g) version of a top-spec hikers’ jacket, so should suit serious day walkers in summer. The hood has an effective peak and a close fit around the face; the waist can be cinched to keep the fit close, and the low hem gives you extra coverage around the hips in exposed lcoations. The chest pockets are easily large enough for OS maps. With no hip pockets, a backpack harness fits comfortably.

Despite these excellent design features, you shouldn’t expect the Gore-Tex Paclite Plus fabric to keep performing for hours in heavy rain. This is meant to be a back-up jacket to protect you from relatively short spells of wet weather. And backpackers note: the fabric is not intended to use with loads weighing more than 10kg – expect rain to soak through if you do.

Breathability should cope with most conditions: it may get muggy on uphill stretches when you are working harder – but there are big underarm vents to allow cool air in. (Speed walkers and cyclists might want something more breathable.)

An outstanding design for hiking with a daypack in unpredictable weather.