Waterproof jackets don’t need to break the bank. Gear editor Chris Townsend assess the best budget waterproofs. On test Craghoppers Reaction Lite

Part of Craghoppers’ DoE approved range the Reaction Lite is a comfortable jacket with a good hood that gives excellent protection as it covers the sides of the face and has a very stiff peak. The external pockets are covered by a hipbelt but there is a mapsize inner chest pocket, though of course you have to open the front zip to access it. The fabric is soft and comfortable. Ventilation is by the front zip only. The cuffs are narrow, restricting airflow in the sleeves. Breathability is on a par with most of the jackets tested, which is to say that the inner gets damp quite quickly when working hard.  The jacket isn’t too heavy – though the ‘lite’ is a misnomer – and packs up fairly small for carrying. It’s one of the better jackets tested.

Reviewed in May 2015 Issue