When weight and space are limited, the best pieces of gear are the most versatile. The Deviator Hoodie from the folks at Outdoor Research certainly fits that bill. It’s equally as effective worn as a mid-layer, or as an outer. That’s already at least one less thing to fit in your backpack. Ideal. And at just 321 grams, you’ll hardly notice it in there at all.

It’s a cleverly designed hoody as well. The torso features Polartec Alpha insulation which regulates your body temperature, circulating air when you’re active, and keeping it locked in when you’re at rest. This ensures you stay warm when it’s cold, and cool when it’s hot.

And it doesn’t stop there. It also promotes increased air flow, which makes this an incredibly breathable hoodie. This is a real all-season piece of clothing. It also easily compressible, making it a low-volume essential. Polartec Alpha was originally designed for US Special Forces, so you know it’s going to withstand just about anything you can throw at it.

“The torso features Polartec Alpha insulation which regulates your body temperature, circulating air when you’re active, and keeping it locked in when you’re at rest.”

The hood, sleeves, and back panel of the Deviator meanwhile are made using Polartec’s Grid Fleece, which is less warm than Polartec Alpha but more breathable, and actively wicks moisture away from your body. This special fleece fabric also stretches with your body, so you’re not going to feel restricted when you’re bouldering, or running on a cold morning.

The rest of the shell is made from 100 per cent Nylon 7D Ripstop, so you know it’s going to be tough and durable, even when you’re scaling the most fearsome of climbs.