Features

All the right performance features are here on the Black Diamond Highline Stretch. The hood, for instance, is helmet compatible and very protective thanks to its cinch system and wired peak, the zips are all sealed by YKK Aquaguard lamination and there’s those pit zips we mentioned which will open right up without leaving you exposed to rainfall. As for pockets, you have a small one on the chest that’s concealed by a storm flap and then two medium sized zipped handwarmers which are well placed so that they can be accessed even when you’re wearing a harness or a backpack with a hipbelt. The cuffs feature neat Velcro tabs and there’s a toggled hem adjustment.

Tester’s Verdict

Will Renwick, editor of Outdoors Magic

“Unfortunately with the UK lockdown restrictions I haven’t been able to test this out in the gnarly mountain conditions it’s made for. I have, however, managed to get out in it during some pretty wet trips to the hills.

“It’s one of the best quality jackets I’ve come across this year actually”

“The breathability with the pit zips closed is OK, but you can really get some airflow going once they’re open. Waterproofness has been spot on. No problems there at all.

“The whole thing looks and feels well made. It’s one of the best quality jackets I’ve come across this year actually. I really like how it balances the level of durability and overall weight. In other words, it’s got a strong reliable build to it but without weighing a ton.

“The length and fit is cut quite similar to a snowboarding jacket. For instance, it has a longer hem that covers the tops of your trouser pockets and drops slightly further down at the back and there’s plenty of volume to it as well – definitely enough to fit a few insulating layers underneath. I tried my usual size, a men’s M and found it spot on. I’m a big fan of jackets with a bit more length to them, though if you like your Rab-style jackets that are cut right at the waist, stick with Rab!

“It’s about time I mentioned the performance of that long-life DWR. First of all, it worked from the get-go, with rainfall beading nicely on it. There hasn’t really been any noticeable degradation after three months either, perhaps maybe just a little at the shoulders and on the back where my backpack straps have been rubbing away. Three months is still too little to be able to give you a proper verdict on the longevity of it however, so I’ll look to come back and give you a more comprehensive assessment in a month or two I’m afraid!”