REVIEW: Fjällraven High Coast Hydratic Jacket (AD)
This is a paid partnership with Fjällraven, but all opinions are my own.
I get asked a lot about the gear I’m wearing for hiking, so at the opportunity to review a new rain jacket from one of my favourite outdoor brands, Fjällraven, I was excited to see how it would fair and give you my honest opinion. I have also just moved to one of the wettest parts of the country, Cumbria, so thought it might come in handy! Fjällraven also kindly sent a jacket to my partner, Harvey, so you could see the male and female versions of the jacket, and he could also share his thoughts. I had the chance to test the jacket around the Howgill Fells, Lake District and on a very wet and windy woodland walk…
A Relaxed & Casual Fit
My initial reaction on the arrival of the Fjällraven High Coast Hydratic jackets was how much I loved the colour of mine. Yes I know that seems very trivial, but as someone who already has a couple of technical hiking jackets in bright colours, I was pleased to have something that looked more casual, relaxed and that I could easily wear day to day to walk into town, visit cafes, and go on casual day trips. The fit was equally as relaxed with a very Scandinavian feel to it. It’s more of a straight fit than some other jackets I own, without cinching in at the waist as some women’s jackets do.
The small, which is my usual size, was big enough to wear a fleece and down jacket underneath so is very versatile for layering. The jacket has draw-cords to cinch the jacket in at the hips for added warmth, as well as at the collar and hood to keep it off your face in the wind and rain. The sleeves have velcro straps to tighten around your hands or gloves which, again, adds to keeping in warmth. There are also zipped air vents under the arms for those warmer, muggier days. All these more technical qualities mean the jacket performs well for hikes, but with a casual fit that looks just as comfortable on a trip around town.
Technical Features & Sustainability
As well as the features mentioned that make the Fjällraven High Coast Hydratic Jacket as appropriate for a hike up a hill as a wander into town, the jacket is also a great sustainable option. It is 2 ½ layer (I’d usually always recommend a 2-3 layer waterproof jacket) and is made from recycled Polyamide that is PFC-free. Fjällraven have actually been PFC-free since 2015 and were one of the early brands to eliminate fluorocarbons from their range. For me, what makes the jacket an even more sustainable option is the fact that it is very versatile to be worn in many different conditions and environments. Lightweight yet durable; casual yet with technical features. The only situation that I might not opt for this jacket is for any winter mountaineering or really harsh, mountain conditions in which instance you would want something slightly hardier. The most sustainable option for buying a jacket is always going to be one you already have, or one that is second-hand, but if you are a regular hiker who also needs a jacket to commute to work, the High Coast Hydratic Jacket fits the bill on both parts.
Performance
Personally speaking, and from my experiences wearing the jacket in a few different conditions, I found it performed really well when on a long hike in the Lake District in terms of breathability and as a solid, protective shell against a very strong, cold wind. Neither Harvey nor I needed to use the armpit vents, though on a warmer day I’m sure they would have come in handy. I also found that being able to cinch in the hood, sleeves and hips meant that no wind made its way under my layering system and I remained comfortable both ascending and descending. All in all, it was really nice not having to worry about adjusting the jacket throughout the day and just be able to get on with the walk — definitely what you need from outdoor gear.
We’ve had some pretty wet and wild conditions over the last few days here in Cumbria, and I’ve been wearing the High Coast jacket for every walk with Oslo. I see the jacket as being a solid waterproof, while also remaining light for Spring and easy to throw in the rucksack. The only area where water has soaked through a little has been on the cuffs of the sleeves, where perhaps the water drips down and congregates. I haven’t found this to be an issue except my hands got a little cold when I wasn’t wearing gloves.
It may look sunny, but I’m wearing three layers underneath the jacket here!
Conclusion
For me, the High Coast Hydratic Jacket is ideal for someone looking for a jacket that is versatile to wear as a day-to-day coat as well as out hiking. I wouldn’t describe it as a highly technical hiking jacket, so if you’re regularly out hiking in rain, snow and very harsh conditions, it might not be the right jacket for you. However, if you enjoy heading out and aren’t afraid of a little rain, the High Coast Hydratic Jacket will keep you dry and sheltered.
Personally, I love the fit, comfort and ease of being able to throw this jacket into a rucksack or over a fleece for many hikes. I’m looking forward to continuing to wear the jacket throughout the Spring, Summer and beyond.
Let me know if you have any other questions in the comments below!