by Tony Lourens
There are quite a few things that I look for when assessing a rain shell. The most important ones are: it has to be properly waterproof, and it has to be properly breathable. That is a given and no compromise can be entertained. The other almost as important factors are cut and fit. The jacket must fit properly, but still allow movement and comfort and the hood must be effective and adjustable. Then last, but certainly not least is the durability of the garment and features, such as pockets, hem and cuff closures, and of course the weight. Let’s take a closer look at all these factors.
Waterproof and breathable
The Dryzzle Futurelight is a 3-layer rain shell, manufactured from Futurelight fabric with a non-PFC durable water-repellent finish. It is fully seam sealed and has impressive breathable properties. These three, coupled together, make for a very effective all round rain shell, ideal for hiking and mountaineering as well as for everyday use around town.
Cut and fit
The Dryzzle is a slim cut, which I really like, as it doesn’t bulk out, meaning comfort while trekking with or without a pack, but at the same time (coupled with a slight stretch in the fabric) gives quite good freedom of movement, so also great for climbing. The hood is fully adjustable with a toggle at the back and one on either side. This adjusts the hood really well to avoid blind spots when turning your head. Although the hood can fit over smaller climbing helmets, the fit is a little tight.
Durability
I’ve used the Dryzzle in the mountains around the Western Cape and particularly Montagu, shouldering heavy overnight packs, or packs laden with drills and bolting hardware. I found the polyester-based Futurelight fabric to be hardy and quite resistant to scuffing and rugged applications.
Features
The Dryzzle comes with two zip-up waist pockets and (in my opinion) the very useful breast pocket, which is large enough to stash a large cell phone, map, or snack bar. The only drawback is that the waist pockets are compromised when wearing a climbing harness, but I seldom put anything in my waist pockets when climbing, as it creates bulk where you don’t want it. For extra protection against the elements, the cuffs have secure Velcro closures and a drawstring around the waist to cinch it snug. And what I really like, the
whole jacket can be stuffed into its own breast pocket, making it easier to pack and to hang off your harness from a little tab.
All in all, the Dryzzle Futurelight is a compact and very effective rain shell, which makes a great all-rounder, from battling through horizontal rain and sleet on the hill, to popping down to the shops on a rainy day.
Specifications
• Breathable-waterproof,
seam-sealed Futurelight™ shell
• Non-PFC DWR finish for added protection
• Adjustable, three-piece hood
• Full-length centre front zip
• Internal chest pocket
• Reverse-entry, secure-zip hand pockets
• Internal stow bag
• Adjustable cuffs
• Cinch at hem
Weight: 390g
RRP: R6499.00
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