There’s a pleasing simplicity to the design of the Fjallraven Vardag Hydratic Anorak which is why it features in our best rain jackets 2024. It’s a sleek pullover anorak with a large zipped front pocket into which it can be packed away, side zips that do double duty as ventilation but also make getting the jacket on an off easier, and a half zip at the front with press studs. It may seem simple, but there’s a wealth of technical detail behind the low key looks. The jacket is made from 2.5 layer Hydratic fabric with PU membrane and PFC-free water repellent treatment which is soft, stretchy and pleasingly rustle-free. It’s tough too, as I discovered when greeting a rocky trail rather more enthusiastically than intended.
Lara Dunn Recommends
It looks sufficiently good that I’d happily pop it on for a wander around the shops too, adding to the value for money.- Comfortable to wear
- Relaxed style
- Limited hood adjustment
- Expensive
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £270 Weight: 420g (size L) Materials: 73% recycled polyester/27% polyurethane Hood: Volume adjuster but no stiffener in peak Front closure: Pullover with zip and press studs Underarm/side zips: Yes, zips Pockets: 2 large front pockets Hem: Drawcord adjuster Cuffs: Elasticated Sizes: XXS – XL Women’s/Men’s version: Women’s (Men’s direct equivalent available) www.fjallraven.com |
The fit and cut of the Fjallraven Vardag Hydratic Anorak are spot on for layering, or not, depending on the conditions, with no flapping about if only wearing a light layer underneath. Sleeves are a decent length for the average arm and there’s good length in the body too. It’s pleasantly breathable and protects well in rain. The half zip at the neck can be opened with the press studs fastened to still keep the rain out while allowing for more air flow, as can the side zips, helping to keep everything a good stable temperature.
but where I feel this jacket really comes into its own is as a do-it-all outer shell layer for all seasons. It’s the sort of jacket you can wear or take along in your pack for any weather, as it does just as good a job as a comfortable wind resistant jacket too and being quiet and soft, it’s a pleasure to wear rather than a nuisance. It looks sufficiently good that I’d happily pop it on for a wander around the shops too, adding to the value for money. The only niggles -aside from the high price- are that the hood is quite minimalist, with a fairly soft peak and single drawcord adjustment, and the cuffs are a simple half elasticated design. Not deal breakers but they are details that might not suit more demanding conditions.
