Because this is
Britain, after all...
As we write these words we have, here at Test Pit Towers,
just enjoyed the first fully sunny day of the summer... but by God, it has been
a long time coming. If you, like us in our own special corner of Yorkshire,
have just endured one of the wettest Mays on record, you'll appreciate that
although the calendar says 'SUMMER' that doesn't mean it isn't going to chuck
it down from time to time. To that end we decided to check out a few rainproof
items of clothing designed to be worn even on a warm day.
Helly Hansen Kirkwall
Rain Coat
First up is a very stylish offering from Norwegian friends
of the site, Helly Hansen. When perusing the many different kinds of waterproof
clothing on the HH website (they are technically sailing experts, after all) we
wanted to find something that was a little more removed from the sporty and active
side of the brand's gear, and go for something more city-living centric. We
found it in the Kirkwall Rain Coat.
The classic fisherman's rain coat styling has been
replicated well here, with some modern twists. It features a tie-belt around
the waist, a lined hood on top, and a button sealing front. The whole thing is
made from the unique-to-touch fabric Helox+, which means it is completely
waterproof while actually being very flexible and stretchy. It is comfortable, crucially
breathable, and can be rolled up and easily stored in a bag (should it get a
wee bit too warm). Also, it's available in six colours, and we opted for -
quite appropriately - Summer Red.
£100
Jack Wolfskin
Manitoba II Softshell Jacket
Another jacket that can be packed up small and easily
carried, the Manitoba II was originally designed for chaps who are outside and
being rugged and manly. That is why we've only ever worn the one we were sent
while popping out for team cappuccinos and to pick-up missed parcels from the
Post Office. Although, due to the recent rains, we gave it just as good a
testing as if we'd been roughing it in the Peak District.
Although the water-repellent features of this jacket come
way down the list after breathable, lightweight, and wind-resistant, we
discovered that even in a heavy down-pour the Manitoba II performed
excellently. The great thing about this jacket is that it is a perfect
every-day outer layer, regardless of the weather, and the adjustable seams and
hood make it very comfortable. Oh, and it comes in dark blue and olive. Which
is a kind of green apparently...
£110
Visit www.jack-wolfskin.co.uk
Helly Hansen Dubliner
Jacket
If things get a little Biblical this summer, and the thunder
clouds roll over the horizon, spoiling barbecues for countless millions, break
out the Helly. As we mentioned in the Kirkwall review above, Helly Hansen know
a thing or two about keeping water away, and it certainly shows in the Dubliner
Jacket. This simple overcoat for men is a sturdy, lightweight, and breathable
rain coat that will keep the harshest parts of a wet summer at bay.
The Dubliner features a pack-away hood (which we always
love), exterior and interior pockets, and a quick-drying lining. It is a far
chunkier thing than the Jack Wolfskin offering, but this jacket offers total
protection against damp conditions. Fortunately we found that despite the
double layer and thicker construction, even on a warm day it could still be
worn casually. All the zips are YKK, and even the cuffs can be adjusted to fit.
If you're planning to spend any amount of time outside in the next couple of
months, taking this along in your bag or car would be great idea. Trust us...
£100
BONUS: JUNGWON
Waterproof Hat
Just like dear old Blightly, New York City is well-known for
its rather unpredictable weather. It is exactly that which inspired new brand
JUNGWON to create a range of waterproof outerwear perfect for those living and
working in New York. Meanwhile, back in Old York, it still works just as good.
Of the new range, which includes jackets for both men and
women, we were sent a waterproof hat to test. The hat is stylishly designed to
be as minimalist as possible, while retaining a classic rain hat look (which
we're told, despite being reminiscent of your granny, is actually quite fashionable
right now). Certainly it did a very good job of keeping the rain off, and when
combined with a rain coat that may not feature a hood of its own, it was very
handy.
$95
Visit http://jungwonny.com/