Matthew Jones reviews the Berghaus Paclite Dynak Jacket and finds a lot to like.
There’s a lot to like about the Berghaus Paclite Dynak. It’s sturdy, straightforward and effective waterproof jacket for hiking – not least the reasonable price point. It represents very good value for a Gore-Tex waterproof.
Price: £170 (available from alpinetrek.co.uk)
We also like the no-nonsense design, which does the basics well. With Gore-Tex Paclite you get reliable waterproof performance, decent breathability, low weight and excellent packability. All those qualities make the Paclite Dynak a great ‘just in case’ shell to stuff in a daysack.
Though it’s not quite as nice to wear as a 3-layer jacket if you’re forced to keep it on for extended periods, the inner face of this jacket has a carbon backer instead of a clingy drop liner or printed ‘half-layer’ like many cheaper 2.5-layer PU-based shells. So, it provides reasonable comfort levels. We found that it only started to feel a bit clammy when really working hard uphill.
When it comes to overall weight, the Paclite Dynak tips the scales at 365g in a men’s medium. There are lighter waterproof jackets around, but it is still competitive, while also being very compressible. The slightly higher weight can be accounted for by the fact that the face fabric is made from relatively heavy 75-denier polyester rather than a lighter nylon.
On the flipside, this ensures it can take a fair bit of punishment, and the fabric also has some added stiffness that is a real plus in windy weather. It feels like a much sturdier and more protective jacket than most lightweight shells.
The Dynak’s features are not particularly technical but they are effective and well suited to general hillwalking. The one-way, water-resistant main zip has an inner storm flap and a microfibre chin guard. The two hand pockets are fairly large and placed high enough to stay out of the way of a rucksack hip belt. Though the pocket zips aren’t watertight, they have double storm flaps to keep contents dry.
The overall fit is fairly relaxed, especially compared to trimmer fitting shells like the Rab Zenith or Montane Pac Plus, with room for a layer or two underneath. Sleeves aren’t the longest but still cover the wrists. The cuffs have secure Velcro tabs, while the hem has dual drawcord adjustment. The hood is a relatively simple design that cinches in via a single rear drawcord. However, it offers good face protection and hugs the head nicely, with a stiffened peak to deflect wind and rain.
In terms of drawbacks, we would appreciate the addition of pit zips for ventilation, and perhaps a chest pocket. Some extra adjustment around the hood would also be good. This would help to draw it in tightly around the face. But these are minor omissions really, and besides, adding more features would also add weight and bulk.
Overall, if you’re looking for a light and packable but sturdy hillwalking shell with the dependability of Gore-Tex waterproofing, the Berghaus Paclite Dynak is a very good choice.
