THE DESCENDER WP isn’t cheap for a water-resistant rather than waterproof jacket, but the 2.5-layer rip-stop material it’s made from is windproof and offers a decent amount of breathability.
Features include a dropped rear with silicone around the hem, which helps keep spray off your bum (for the most part, at least), reliable and waterproof YKK zips all round, a nice fleece-lined collar, chest and rear pockets for essentials, and a rear exhaust flap to help dump heat (though wearing a pack makes this less effective). There are also adjustable Velcro cuffs to keep the worst of the grim weather out.
Conditions couldn’t have been worse for testing, and we’re pleased to report that the Descender managed to keep the elements at bay with relative ease, despite lacking the full waterproof credentials.
Price 112$