Musto BR1 inshore
Jacket £175 Salopettes £175
Musto’s BR1 inshore jacket and salopettes were the most lightweight design on test, reflecting the fact that this is very much an inshore rather than coastal jacket, selected in order to come in under the price point. Despite this, it is an extremely comfortable and well-made jacket that should be plenty for day sailing in anything but awful conditions. Other than fit, the men’s and women’s jacket and salopettes both offer the same features.
Jacket
With no external storm flap, the jacket has a waterproof zip and internal storm flap, which kept water out. A fleece-lined midheight collar contains a roll-away hood with a small peak, volume adjustment and side adjusters. We liked the hi-vis yellow detail on the collar. There are just two external pockets with zip closures and fleece handwarmer linings. The single cuffs are adjustable but lack inner cuffs. Inside, it was good to see two zipped chest pockets for keeping phone and keys, and the jacket and hood has a simple mesh liner. There is drawstring adjustment at the hem but not around the waist.
Salopettes
These felt solid. A chunky twoway YKK zip closure at the front has a large inner gusset to keep water out and there is good reinforcement on the knees, seat and around the heel of the trousers. The ankles have Velcro strap closures, the waist is adjustable and the shoulder straps are fabric covered, elasticated with Velcro adjustment. The salopettes have one generously sized cargo pocket on the thigh and there’s a strap to secure a knife pouch.
test verdict
Our water test showed that the jacket let in some water around the neck and cuffs, but this is perhaps to be expected on such a lightweight jacket. The suit afforded a good degree of movement and flex and was shorter in the body than others, giving it a modern appearance but perhaps slightly less protection. With fewer features than some of the others, this set offered little bulk. These would make very good summer sailing waterproofs.