Waterproof Jackets

Halti Next Generation Women’s DryMaxx Shell Jacket | Review

An item that’ll last and last… and then go to good use if and when it does finally wear out

Why We Chose It: Long-lasting, eco-friendly design
Price: £249
Weight: 600g

It’s probably fair to say that Halti aren’t too well known in the UK, but over in Scandinavia, more specifically their home country of Finland, most outdoor enthusiasts will be aware of them – in fact, in 2018, it was chosen as the most respected outdoor brand in the country.

In our opinion, they’re deserving of some interest from us UK outdoorsmen and women. That’s because not only do they make some very functional and good looking kit, but they really put a focus on sustainability. Case in point: the Halti Next Generation Shell.

What’s Halti The Next Generation Best Suited To?

First things first, this isn’t the most technical of outdoor jackets. It’s not the kind of thing you’re going to be going to climb up Mont Blanc in. It will, however, be perfectly well suited to UK three-season hillwalking or say a good old-fashioned winter pub walk.

Eco Credentials

The Next Generation has already picked up a major outdoor award thanks to the efforts towards sustainability that Halti have taken with it. Not only is the jacket made using PFC-free recycled materials but it’s designed so that it can be easily recycled when its use comes to an end. On top of all that, and this is the thing we like most, the Next Generation has been designed so that it can be easily repaired (whether that’s by the user or by Halti) with the zips, tabs and panels all easy enough to remove and replace if they happen to wear out. A surprising amount of waterproof jackets out there have to be chucked out when the main zipper breaks, so it’s always good to see a brand making sure that this doesn’t have to be the case with their product.

Features and Design

The main material used here is a two-layer Polyester with 50% recycled content. The outer has a very durable feel to it but it’s still soft and smooth to the touch. You’ve then got a mix of mesh and a silky Polyester as a lining on the inside. The breathability numbers aren’t great – just 15,000 g/m2/24h – but that’s not too much of an issue given this isn’t really a jacket for high tempos,

As you can see, the hem on the women’s version drops down below the waist, covering your trouser pockets. That has its obvious benefits in regards to wet weather protection, though it does also make this a slightly heavy jacket at 600g. The hood has adjustment and a good peak to keep your face covered. There’s also toggled adjustment at the hem and Velcro tabs on the cuffs. The main zip has a big buttoned down storm flap on the outside and a small inner one as well, so you can expect proper protection there.

As for pockets, you’ve got two popper-sealed handwarmers and then little button-closed one on the chest. Despite what Halti say on their website, I wouldn’t call any of these pockets particularly large. They’ll be big enough for your phone and some snacks but they won’t hold an OS map.

By the way, those flaps you see on the chest aren’t pockets, nor are they vents they’re just there for aesthetics.

So, to recap, if you’re looking for a good looking jacket that’ll be perfect for country ambles or for some three-season hillwalking, this would be a good shout, especially if you’re looking for something with some great eco creds. If you want lightweight, technical and super breathable, you’ll probably want to look elsewhere.

More info: halti.com