Haglöfs Gemini Hood

This fleece mid layer just about has it all. At just 304g, it has a hood, which makes it a rare beast – and for me this gives it an edge. The fabric is warm enough for year-round use while the two chest pockets allow easy storage and access to maps on the move while wearing a rucksack. The stretch panels in the sides allow a reasonably close fit without restricting movement. I’ve been wearing the previous Haglöfs Triton Hood for the past two years, and this is an ideal replacement. It also won the 2007 Polartec Apex Design award. But there is no hem drawcord, which is annoying, but not a major problem if the fit is good for your body shape. There is no cuff adjustment either and the material is a little less windproof than some. In winter you’ll need an extra mid layer under it to stay warm on the hills.

Fabric: Polartec Micro fleece, Polartec Power Dry
Sizes: S-XXL (men’s); 8-18 (women’s)
Weight: 304g (size L)
Made in Poland
UK stores: England 25; Wales 1; Scotland 9; Ireland 0