Haglofs L.I.M GTX Active £290

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Top-level performance, comfortable, neat cut

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Unusual hood, no hem or cuff adjustment, expensive Haglofs’ L.I.M or ‘less is more’ series is highly regarded amongst ultralighters for its ethos of ‘functional minimalism’ – that is, delivering all the essentials but nothing extraneous, all in a weight-conscious package. This jacket is no exception.

For cut and construction, it takes a similar approach to Dynafit’s Transalper GTX, as it also uses a mix of Gore-Tex Active and GoreTex Paclite Plus fabrics to deliver a balance of waterproof-breathable performance, durability and comfort. It has a similarly neat cut too, with a slim and streamlined fit.

Even the features are similar: both have relatively simple but effective twin meshlined hand pockets and elasticated cuffs and hems. Unfortunately, the Haglofs hood design isn’t as good as Dynafit’s. It has unusual twin rear drawcords, which do a decent job of reducing hood volume, but the floppy peak offers limited protection from rain. It doesn’t move particularly well with the head either.

And when it comes to weight, the Dynafit also wins, being lighter. The Haglofs jacket has a slightly better centre zip though, with a soft chinguard at the top and two press studs, one at the bottom and one at the chest. This enables you to vent the jacket easily without it flapping open, ideal for quickly dumping excess heat when moving fast.

■ Weight 317g ■ Men’s sizes S-XXL ■ Women’s sizes XS-XXL (L.I.M GTX Paclite Plus)

Verdict

A well-built GoreTex shell that ticks most of the boxes for a lightweight and packable waterproof.