The Inov-8 Venturelite mid hoodie is both practical and flattering and comes recommended by gear tester Fiona Russell.
The female-specific and athletic fit of the inov-8 Venturelite mid hoodie is well designed and flattering and features in our guide to the best fleece jackets. The neat and tight hood, longer torso and arms with thumb-loops combine to offer extra insulation around the head, hips and wrists. Unfortunately, for me the sleeves are not long enough to make use of the thumb-loops without cutting off circulation.
Price: $140 | £110 (available from inov-8) | Weight: 267g (UK10) | Materials: 92% recycled polyester / 8% elastane | Hood: Yes | Front Closure: Full zip | Pockets: 2 | Hem: Elasticated | Cuffs: Elasticated with thumb loops | Men’s version: Yes | Sizes: UK6 to 16
The textured hexagon inner knit fleece is lovely and soft against the skin, while the outer is a smooth polyester that keeps its look after many wears and washes. The lightweight jacket is great as an insulating mid-layer and fairly good at allowing the moisture produced by warm sweat to get out. It’s also reasonably windproof in a breeze or light wind.
The two hand pockets are useful, especially because they have zips. One niggle is the full-front zip, which can be fiddly to do up at the base. I’ve owned two of these jackets and they are both the same.
I have found inov-8 products to be long lasting, and because it’s versatile (I’ve worn this mid for walking, running and skiing) you’ll probably find you get a lot of use of it. The jacket is also smart enough to wear as a casual work garment and for a night at the pub.
I like that inov-8 have paid attention to looks as well as outdoor practicalities, plus there is an extra attention to detail with a small reflective feature at the rear.
