Montane Dyno LT £120

+ Comfortable, fully-featured

- Not the lightest, no women’s version The Dyno LT is Montane’s midweight soft shell, a versatile layer designed for 3-season use in the mountains. This jacket employs Granite Stretch fabric, a nylonelastane blend that features four-way stretch and an eco-friendly PFC-free DWR finish. It wicks very well and feels pleasant against the skin. We found it to be slightly stretchier and more comfortable than either of the soft shell fabrics used in the Black Diamond and Mountain Equipment jackets, though perhaps not quite as resistant to abrasion as the latter. But it moves exceptionally well with the body, even when scrambling or moving fast in the hills. It is also reasonably protective, shrugging off winds and light showers. When it comes to features, this jacket is mountain-ready, with a roll-away, helmet-compatible hood with a wired peak and three-way adjustment. There’s a two-way front zip backed with an internal stormflap, plus three zipped outer pockets. The twin hand pockets are mesh-lined for venting but are also placed high to keep them accessible when wearing a pack or climbing harness. They’ll also take an OS map. The hem drawcord cinches in at both sides for easy adjustment, and there are also Velcro cuff tabs. For all-round mountain adventurers who hike, scramble and climb, this would be a great choice. It’s just a shame there’s no women’s version.

■ Weight 585g (men’s M)

■ Men’s sizes S-XXL

■ Women’s sizes n/a

■ Fabric Granite Stretch double-weave soft shell with PFCfree DWR finish (88% nylon, 12% elastane)

Verdict

A capable and welldesigned soft shell, with the most comfy stretch fabric of all those we tested. A little heavier than others though.