Chris Townsend reviews a very light waterproof from Alpkit.
This review is part of our ultralight waterproofs gear guide, and was first published in the May 2019 issue of The Great Outdoors.
Even amongst these ultralight jackets the Gravitas is exceptionally light, the second lightest reviewed in fact and one of only three under 200 grams. Amazingly the fabric is 3-layer and the design isn’t that minimalist. The jacket feels surprisingly substantial too. Breathability isn’t as good as with some pricier jackets but it’s adequate, especially given the low cost.
The hood is excellent, one of the best tested. It has a stiffened wired peak, side elastication and a single-pull rear drawcord and it really fits closely, giving good protection whilst not impeding vision. The large pocket is very good too. It’s set high above a hipbelt and holds a map. There are no handwarmer pockets but at this weight I’m not complaining.
The Gravitas has a more pronounced drop tail than many, with adjustment on each side. The semi-elasticated cuffs are narrower than I would like, though they can be pulled up if needed.
Alpkit calls the Gravitas a running jacket. I think it’s a fine summer and warm-weather walking jacket. Sizes are smaller than some, though nothing is said about a ‘slim’ or ‘athletic’ cut. The Large fits me comfortably over a fleece jacket.
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