At a fair price, the Berghaus Ridgemaster provides a good balance between waterproof breathability, says David Lintern.
This Berghaus Ridgemaster hillwalking-orientated waterproof jacket gives oodles of protection at a fair price. Standard 3L Gore-Tex provides an excellent balance between waterproofness and breathability.
A single rear hood adjuster and a fully wired peak allow the face to be fully protected. But it’s not really designed to take a helmet and doesn’t move well with the head.
The jacket is slightly long, with five roomy pockets: two Napoleon, two handwarmer and one internal. It is very roomy in the chest area but does at least allow for plenty of layering.
The main zip is one-way and has a good storm flap and a press stud at the hem, adjusted by elastic and toggles. Sleeves are tailored and have Velcro tabs, and two pit zips allow ventilation. PFC-free DWR treatment and bluesign-approved Gore-Tex add up to reasonable eco credentials.
The Berghaus Ridgemaster keeps the weather well at bay, but it has too much fabric at the chest, not quite enough width in the arms, and pockets that can’t really be used in conjunction with a laden rucksack.
See more waterproof jackets in guide to The best waterproof jackets
