FEATURES
The fabric here is 2-layer Hydroshell Elite with a mesh lining that includes an odour-resistant Argentium treatment to repel pongs. The Berghaus Arran/ Skye Hydroshell weighs in a little heavy at 695g (size L) but this jacket is much longer in the body than others. The hood has a wired peak and there is a good chest pocket. The lower pocket access can be blocked by a rucksack hipbelt though. 4/5
FIT
The men’s Arran comes in sizes S-XXL and the women’s Skye in sizes 8-18, and the body is much longer than others, which means this jacket covers below the waist much better than others. The hood fits well too and has good movement with the head. The hem and cuffs don’t move easily when stretching, so overall a better fit than most. 5/5
COMFORT
The Berghaus Arran/ Skye Hydroshell is a little stiff and heavy, and that limits comfort a bit, but it is also longer and the stiffness allows it to fend off a driving gale far better than a skimpy lightweight jacket. It isn’t overly hot and that mesh lining controls condensation well. The only way to improve comfort further would be to pay more for a more breathable fabric. 4/5
IN USE
This is a solid hillwalking jacket that is great for throwing on and heading along the trail. The lower pockets aren’t the easiest to access, but the longer body does mean that with some rucksacks you can get access below a waistbelt. The chest pockets are great for maps and navigational items, while the hood is excellent for battling through a storm. 4/5
VALUE
The Berghaus Arran/Skye Hydroshell isn’t a perfect jacket, but for the price you’re getting a real hillwalking workhorse so the value is good. 4/5
VERDICT
Not much to quibble about here unless you want a lighter jacket or even better pockets. Great for most hillwalkers. It wins Trail’s ‘approved’ accolade. 4.2/5
Review by Graham Thompson
First published in Trail magazine Spring 2016