Regatta Arec

£60 Men’s S-XXXL Women’s 8-20 Weight 483g (size M) Material Warm-backed, woven stretch, Softshell fabric (outer 96% polyester, 4% elastane); lining 100% polyester)

The fabric has good breathability, fends off water and wind well and feels tough and durable. Inside, a layer of polyester fleece adds extra warmth, making this better than most for cooler temperatures. Overall it feels great for scrambling in moist and windy conditions. The hood has drawcords so it can be adjusted to fit well, while the hem and cuffs are elasticated but have no other adjustment. The low price tag and relative weight are very appealing. This feels a little restrictive compared to more expensive jackets as the fit is close and there is less stretch than in some other options, although this may be related to the size medium compared to the size large tested elsewhere. I also found the sleeves tended to ride up more easily than others. The hood does not move with the head as well as some and there is less cuff and hem adjustment. You only get two main pockets rather than a third chest pocket, and the pockets you do get have limited access when wearing a rucksack hipbelt. So this lacks some of the key benefits of higher-priced designs. Excellent price tag for a soft shell jacket with a good material, but it lacks some important features that you may find of benefit on the hill.