It isn’t easy to find a hill-ready waterproof jacket under £100 these days. So what do you get for your money? I’d call the Keela Paklite no-frills… but competent for lightweight hill duty if your needs are basic.
Alex Roddie’s verdict
Overall this is a good choice if you just want a lightweight just-in-case jacket and don’t want to spend a fortune, but there are better options for regular hill use.- Lightweight
- Excellent value
- Basic Hood
- Baggy fit
- No women’s version
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £74.95 Weight: 317g (M) Materials: Rainlife 2000 recycled waterproof/breathable ripstop nylon Hood: rollaway, side adjustments Front Closure: water-resistant zip with internal storm flap Underarm/Side Zips: none Pockets: 2x external Hem: adjustable drawcord Cuffs: elasticated Velcro Sizes: men XS-3XL Women’s/Men’s version: men’s keelaoutdoors.com |
The Keela Paklite’s design is minimal and a little dated in appearance, partly thanks to its baggy, boxy fit – a men’s M felt more like L. However, length is good, giving below-the-waist coverage fore and aft. And the pockets are hipbelt-friendly – a plus at this price range. You even get a water-resistant zipper and very good cuffs, with elastic as well as Velcro. However, the hood is rudimentary: a floppy rollaway design with only two points of adjustment and no stiffening or peak. It works ok in heavy rain if it isn’t too windy, but I’d want something more protective in filthy conditions.
The fabric feels durable, with a ripstop pattern, and is surprisingly breathable – more than good enough for the intended use. You also get a good range of sizes, but there is no women-specific version. Overall this is a good choice if you just want a lightweight just-in-case jacket and don’t want to spend a fortune, but there are better options for regular hill use.
Tested and reviewed by Alex Roddie
Alex tested this jackets on a series of day hikes and overnight backpacking trips in the Cairngorms and West Highlands. All weights are as measured on Alex’s digital scale (men’s Medium).
