Outdoor Research £290

Super breathable, very comfortable Slightly awkward pockets, relatively expensive

US brand Outdoor Research isn’t so wellknown on this side of the pond, but the Interstellar jacket is one of its products that’s well worth seeking out. It’s a trimfitting, lightweight shell made from a soft and supple 3-layer fabric. It doesn’t crinkle or feel clammy and is highly breathable – ideal if you tend to run hot when on the move. The jacket offers plenty of well-designed features, such as the large, three-way adjustable hood, which boasts a wired peak. The hood also has a rear ‘hood lock’ to reduce the volume for a better fit. The water-resistant main zip is backed with an inner stormflap and has a soft chinguard for improved comfort when fully zipped. There are also two water-resistant hand pockets – big enough to take a map – and an outside chest pocket with an elasticated mesh phone sleeve. The jacket packs into the left-hand pocket, which also has a plastic key clip. Both hand pockets are mesh lined, so can be opened to aid ventilation. Annoyingly, they are partly obstructed by a rucksack hipbelt, though they remain useable. We also wish the rear hem was scooped to offer a little more protection. However, these are minor gripes, and this is still an excellent jacket.

Men’s sizes S-XXL Women’s sizes XS-XL Weight 322g (men’s L)

Soft and superbreathable – much more than a backup layer. The only real negative is the slightly awkward pocket placement.