Another Day at the Office

By Bev Probert – Betws Shop It was quite an interesting concept to grasp. “Go into the mountains with some test kit from Mountain Equipment and Gore. Leave behind your own fleece and waterproofs to try this out”. For those of you who have ever borrowed other people’s kit, you will agree that it leaves you with a sense of vulnerability, not knowing if it’s waterproof, comfortable and usable. So out goes my trusted fleece and waterproof from my rucksack. As we arrived at out drop off point we are all keen to really “test” the kit. Overcast but not raining so on goes the soft shell a Gore-Windstopper. An item of clothing that is ideal for cold and damp conditions, this versatile jacket did its job well. Happy to wear it as a comfortable barrier between myself and the light rain and wind that was trying to scare me into putting my hard shell jacket on. The freedom of movement and high level of protection from the elements that the soft shell provides is due to Gore combing a fleece layer, membrane and soft outer layer. The laminate can be stretched to its limit and still be waterproof. These factors can guarantee a gore soft shell will provide the user with a multi-activity, multi-season jacket. Towards the end of the day I was becoming quite disappointed by the lack of heavy rain, as I was unable to test the Mountain Equipment jacket even more to the point where I zipped up, tucked in and found the biggest puddle to jump in. If only I had more patience! As we were walking back down the mountain, it started to rain as if we were back in Wales. Bring it on! A Mountain Equipment Jannu was my defence against the weather. This women specific, tried and tested jacket can boast an extremely adjustable hood that is fuss free and helmet friendly. The cut of the jacket accommodates the female figure, with tailored sleeves, waist/bottom draw cords and attention to detail, which has been made easier due to Gore being able to use thinner seam tape. This jacket has been made with Gore’s new material: Pro Shell. Designed to be used by Outdoor professionals and serious enthusiasts, this laminate is light, strong, breathable, and extremely durable to protect users in their chosen demanding activities. Not only does it perform well under extreme conditions, this 3 layer membrane has a woven grid backing which is pleasing to the touch, especially when worn against the skin, and can feel more like you’re wearing a soft shell than a hard shell. Like most outdoor enthusiasts I enjoy pushing myself to the limits and it’s reassuring to know that while I’m struggling to get my mind and body up a climb/mountain/bike track, the technical clothing that I’m wearing will do its job of keeping me comfortable and dry.