HIGH & DRY: THE BEST SHELL CLOTHING

Push your limits in challenging conditions with the Summit L5, The North Face’s pinnacle mountaineering shell. This is made with waterproof-breathable FUTURELIGHT, with Spectra reinforcements on the high-wear areas to maximise durability. Inside, one zipped and two mesh pockets keep your essentials safe. Climbing-specifi c features include a helmet-compatible hood and harness compatible chest pockets.

The Lhotse jacket is a pinnacle mountaineering piece. Providing resilient outdoor performance, it utilises two weights of GORE-TEX Pro to great eff ect. It’s waterproof and windproof, with reinforcements on the high wear areas, which amp up abrasion resistance. Helmet and harness compatible, additional features include waterresistant pit zips and a secure internal pocket.

When it is wet and windy in the hills, you’ll be glad for the Zeta AR. Built from waterproof GORE-TEX with C-knit technology, you get comfort and protection combined. Well-equipped for long days outdoors, its features include pit zips and five pockets. Thigh length for extra coverage, the Zeta makes an outstanding hiking shell.

On blustery days when rain is likely, a shell like the Zenith is superb. A lightweight GORE-TEX Paclite Plus jacket, it’s waterproof, breathable, and packs down small. Suitable for scrambling and hiking, the helmetcompatible hood has a stiffened peak to improve visibility. Articulated sleeves and a slim fit help to keep you trim and mobile.

Patagonia developed the Calcite jacket for hikers wanting reliable wet weather protection when out in the hills. The 75 denier face fabric is 100 percent recycled, and hard-wearing. GORE-TEX Paclite Plus technology provides waterproof, windproof protection. A clean-cut style equipped with the essentials, this allows you to hike in comfort throughout the year.

With the Dual Aspect jacket, Patagonia raises the bar for sustainable performance. It is the brand’s fi rst fully PFC-free waterproof-breathable mountaineering shell. Ergonomic patterning improves articulation under the arms, which means you can swing an ice tool without the jacket lifting out of your harness. There are pit zips to vent excess heat in moments of exertion too.

The Tupilak pant is a fi rst-class choice for mountaineers. Made with 80 denier GORETEX Pro fabric throughout, it gives total protection in winter conditions. Bonded ice screw overlays and reinforced kick strips enhance durability further. Adjustable braces, a drop seat and articulated knees complete the set, ensuring comfort and mobility throughout the day. Perfectly adapted to changeable conditions, choose the Beta AR pant for mixedmountain use. Championing GORE-TEX Pro Most Rugged fabric, it delivers waterproof, windproof storm protection. Harness compatible, it has WaterTight side zips which off er drop seat functionality and can also be used for rapid venting. Articulated knees keep you comfortable and mobile. One of our best-sellers, the Zenith pant provides lightweight, breathable, waterproof protection. Ideal for day hikes, they feature reinforcements on the seat and knees for extra durability. An elasticated waist and ¾ length side zips make them easy to don. Supplied with a compact stuff sack, you can pack them away when the weather improves.

If hiking and scrambling is your thing, you’ll be well set with Rab’s Kinetic Alpine 2.0 jacket. It pairs the stretch and comfort of a softshell with the protection of a hardshell. Abrasion resistant reinforcements bolster the waterproof Profl ex fabric. Alpine-ready, this is helmetcompatible and has a two-way zip for access to your harness belay loop.

If you want enhanced wet weather hiking protection, choose the Beta Long jacket. A durable GORE-TEX shell with a supple C-Knit backer, it gives reliable comfort in the rain. Features include pit zips for temperature regulation and an internal zipped pocket. A regular fi t allows you to fi t layers underneath, while the thigh length increases the coverage, helping keep you even dryer.

Thanks to its 3-in-1 design, you can hike with the Carto Triclimate across the seasons. The waterproof DryVent outer features three zipped pockets to hold your essentials. A removable inner jacket provides reliable warmth. Filled with PrimaLoft Black synthetic insulation, it traps body heat while maintaining breathability. You can wear the layers zipped together or as stand-alone pieces.

The Makalu jacket is a waterproof shell that shines yearround. Off ering high performance without costing the Earth, its outer consists of a recycled face fabric with a PFC-free water repellent fi nish. An all-season performer, GORE-TEX technology blocks wind and rain alike. Durable, functional, and comfortable, the Alpine fi t makes it easy to wear layers underneath.