Waterproof Jackets

Jack Wolfskin Sierra Trail Jacket | Review

An environmentally-friendly jacket for taking to the trail in any weather from the ever-reliable Jack Wolfskin

Chances are, if you’re reading this then you have at least a passing interest in the outdoors. Either that or a Wiki-trail has got out of hand and led you here. Either Way, we’re delighted to have you. But yes, I digress. The outdoors. We all love being there, and it stands to reason that we also want to do our bit to look after it.

Now, thanks to the Sierra Pass jacket by Jack Wolfskin, you can do your bit for the environment, while you’re out among it. Splendid! The Sierra is a waterproof hardshell, that’s made from recycled materials, including old bottles. In fact, it’s said to be the world’s first fully recycled waterproof fabric.

Given that, as things stand, we’re on course to have more plastic in the ocean than fish by 2050, anything that arrests this trend is very welcome indeed.

But don’t be fooled into thinking this is some high-fashion piece made up of old Lucozade and Panda Pop bottles. Let’s be honest, that would be ridiculous. No, this is a good, reliable waterproof shell.

There are three environmentally-friendly layers to the Sierra. The outer material is made from a fully re-used PFC-free fabric, the waterproof membrane is 100 per cent recycled as well and also zero waste, and the lining is made from those recycled bottles mentioned earlier.

“With the Sierra Pass jacket by Jack Wolfskin, you can do your bit for the environment, while you’re out among it”

The company call this material Texapore Ecosphere, which does sound like the kind of company a Bond Villain would have as a front, but it’s that waterproof and windproof shell that makes this jacket so special. With a 20,000 millimetre hydrostatic head, you know this is going to stand up to what these fair Isles can offer.

While the cut isn’t too figure-hugging unlike some other jackets, the Sierra is still designed for high performance activity out on the trails. Whether your cycling, trail running, hiking, or heading to that remote bouldering spot, the siera is going work just as hard as you do. The venting zips on either side of the body are really good for dumping body heat – especially welcome when the temperature rises but the heavens are still pouring.

At 440g, it’s not the lightest out there but it’s still not heavy. Combined with the fact it packs down into a small size, you’re not going to be too inconvenienced stowing it in your pack when you’re not wearing it. The hand pockets on each side are roomy, and have water resistant zips that should stop all but heavy and prolongued moisture getting to your mobile, or Kendal mint cake. The cinched hood is also handy for keeping the rain off when things get a bit too British.

Tester’s verdict

“Waterproof, windproof, breathable, and fully recyclable – the Sierra Jacket gets a big thumbs up from me. I won’t deny I was skeptical at first, having not used the brand for a few years. But having worn the jacket and learned about its eco qualities, I was really impressed. The weather protection is good, and it’s feels comfortable to move in even in warmer temperatures thanks to the ventilating pit zips.”

Price: £150

Weight: 420g

More info: www.jack-wolfskin.co.uk