I have been testing the Berghaus Paclite Dynak Gore-Tex waterproof jacket in the Scottish hills and mountains.
Why do I need a summer waterproof jacket?
The UK’s weather is unpredictable and, whatever the season, I always have a waterproof jacket with me. For winter hiking, it’s likely to be a heavier weight Gore-Tex jacket, such as the Salewa Fanes jacket or Berghaus Mehan jacket, which is made with Hydroshell™ 2.5L fabric. I choose a jacket that is highly waterproof, yet also breathable, as well as being windproof and durable.
When running, I usually pack my favourite lightweight Montane Spine Gore-Tex jacket. I want a jacket that keeps out the wet but is also highly breathable because when I am running, I sweat more than when walking. A running jacket can be simple with few features and I look for lightweight fabric.
Then there is summer walking in the Scottish mountains and for this I like a lightweight hiking jacket. Of course, I could take my running jacket – and `I sometimes do this – but there are benefits of a walking specific jacket because it will include more features. The fabric is usually a little heavier but that means it is designed to be waterproof for longer and more durable when carrying a heavier rucksack.
The latest addition to my waterproof jacket cupboard is the Berghaus Paclite Dynak.
Features of Berghaus Paclite Dynak
Berghaus says: “A no-nonsense, lightweight, packable waterproof that is the ideal hardshell for long summer days on the trails.”
- Fabric: 2L Gore-Tex Paclite
- Articulated sleeves
- Dropped hem length
- Two zipped hand pockets
- Fully adjustable hood with stiffened peak and chin guard
- Water resistant YKK centre front zip
- “Madekind” product featuring more than 90% bluesign® approved fabric
- Packable: Packs into a small size
- Weight: Men’s 365g; women’s 296g
- Size: men’s XS to 3XL; women’s: UK8 to UK20
- Price: £160.
- Buy from Berghaus and also on Amazon. (I receive a small commission for sales through Amazon.)
My thoughts: Berghaus Paclite Dynak waterproof jaket
As with many Berghaus jackets the fit is generous. I have the UK10 and it is a roomy fit. I don’t mind this because it gives enough space for layers underneath. Also, just because it’s a bit bigger, the shape is still flattering.
The hem length is adequate and there is an elastic inner drawcord for width adjustment. I have long arms but this jacket has long enough arms, as well as cuffs that can be adjusted by Velco fasteners. I like Velcro because it tends to be long-lasting.
I love the bright emerald colour, although there are three other colour options for women: Red, black and blue.
The front zip is one way only. I much prefer jackets with a two-way zip, although this comes with a price hike and a Gore-Tex jacket for £160 is a great price, so I am not going to dwell on this. The zip does stick a bit when doing it up but, again, it’s not a major quibble because many zips do this.
There is a zip guard at the chin, although I would have liked to see a soft fabric where the Gore-Tex meets skin.
The hood has one elastic adjustor and this works well enough. The hood can be adjusted for a snug fit in windy weather, or easily loosened off.
There are two zipped hand pockets. The zips are not waterproof style zips, although there are storm covers.
I would have liked to see an inner zipped pocket, too, for keeping small valuables safe but this is a pared down style jacket. Again, I think the jacket is at such a reasonable price point that it is difficult to demand too much more.
Wearing the jacket is enjoyable. It keeps the wet out and allows sweat to breathe out so long as conditions are not too humid. I have worn it in torrential rain, drizzle and when it’s dry but windy.
I have walked fast uphill and also walked briskly on the flat. I have found it a very comfortable and lightweight jacket. It’s ideal for summer use and for packing into a small space in a rucksack for use when the rain suddenly comes on.
I will most likely continue to wear the jacket into autumn and on some winter days, too. It’s not a jacket I would run in although if I was planning a long adventure in the hills or mountains when I planned to do a mix of running and walking, I also might think about taking the Berghaus Paclite Dynak jacket instead of the Montane Spine jacket. I do think the two-layer Gore-Tex will get a bit wet inside due ti sweat if you are working hard, such as doing a lot of running.
The fabric of the Dynak is heavier and thicker than the Montane Spine, although it is not as heavyweight as my usual winter walking waterproof jacket. The fabric does make a bit of a rustling noise when I move about in it, but it’s much quieter than many other jacket fabrics I’ve tested.
In conclusion, the Berghaus Paclite Dynak jacket is a reasonably priced Gore-Tex summer waterproof jacket and while it does lack a few of the more expected hiking jacket features, it is perfectly adequate. It is a jacket that could serve many people in spring, summer, autumn and on lower-level winter trails. I think it works best for hiking, although it would be fine for running at higher altitude, too.