FEATURES
Gore-Tex with a mesh and taffeta lining is the main fabric here, so you get extremely high levels of waterproofness and breathability, with the taffeta adding comfort. The two main pockets have mesh linings and these extend to the hem, which isn’t ideal. But there is a third chest pocket behind the front zip stormflap, which is useful. The hood has a wired peak. 4/5
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FIT
The men’s Maxen comes in sizes S-XXL and the women’s Era comes in sizes 8-18. The body is a little shorter than others and the sleeve cuffs ride up a little more easily than would be ideal. The hood fits very well and moves well with the head, while the hood peak allows great vision. The style is a little more relaxed than some others too. 4/5
COMFORT
Having a lining improves comfort, as even if you get condensation with the Sprayway Maxen / Era you don’t notice it too badly. The pockets are mesh-lined, though, meaning water can creep into the jacket via these areas. As the sleeves ride up a little and the body isn’t the longest I tended to feel a little more exposed to the elements. 4/5
IN USE
On the hill the Sprayway Maxen / Era works reasonably well for generally easier walking. A rucksack hipbelt does impede pocket access a little, but it’s not as bad as some designs and at least the pockets are quite large. The third chest pocket behind the front zip stormflap is very useful for a map or GPS receiver. The hood is great and sets this jacket apart from many at this price. 4/5
VALUE
While the design isn’t perfect the price is very good for what you get, and you have to pay a lot more to gain a worthwhile improvement. 4/5
VERDICT
The Sprayway Maxen/Era is a well-priced jacket for the hillwalking performance on offer, but some of the details could be better. 4.0/5