Kirsty Pallas awards the Harrier Exmoor the Best Value jacket accolade and gives it her recommendation after rigorously testing its nifty features.
The Harrier Exmoor is a trail running jacket and I’m about as far from a trail runner as it gets, so bear with me! I wasn’t sure whether this would work for me, but the Exmoor almost got the Best in Test. I’ve really enjoyed wearing it as it doesn’t feel like a waterproof at all. It’s soft, flexible and quiet.
Kirsty Pallas’ Best Value
I’ve enjoyed wearing the Exmoor as it doesn’t feel like a waterproof at all. It’s soft, flexible and quiet.- soft feel
- ventilation options
- waterproofed rated to moderate rain
| Quick specs |
|---|
| Price: £94.99 |
| Weight: 309g (size XS) |
| Materials: 100% polyester |
| Hood: Stiffened peak with volume adjusters at back and sides |
| Front Closure: Offset front zip with internal storm flap and studs |
| Underarm/Side Zips: Yes, small pit zips |
| Pockets: 2 hand pockets, 1 back pocket, 1 chest pocket |
| Hem: Drawcord adjustment with an inner elasticated skirt |
| Cuffs: Elasticated with thumb loops |
| Sizes: XS – XL |
| Men’s version: Yes |
| harrierrunfree.co.uk |
It’s a good fit, and I can still just about get a duvet jacket on underneath.
The only slight drawback is the waterproof rating. I understand that it’s a compromise for a running jacket, so for me this is a jacket for lighter summer rain and drizzle.
A lot of the features are designed around runners who need a jacket that meets race criteria and can be used with a running vest, but I didn’t find these an issue. The front zip is off centre with a second half zip to allow you to reach pockets on the straps of a running vest, but it also gives you lots of venting options.
There are also short pit zips, but they are really easy to reach and don’t get in the way or a rucksack strap. The hand pockets do sit where a rucksack waist belt would go, but this jacket is for use with a running vest, so I’ll let them off!
There are a couple of other nifty features like being able to pack it away into its own back pocket, and it can also be used as a bumbag in itself.
The cuffs are completely elasticated with a thumb loop which is handy for keeping them in place while on the move, and keeping your hands warm. There’s enough give to easily get a small to medium glove cuff tucked in as well.
I’ve really enjoyed using this jacket from Harrier, and I think it will become a summer staple for those will-it-won’t-it rain days.
Testing Conditions
These jackets were all tested through Autumn and early winter in Scotland while hillwalking, biking and mountaineering in a mix of rain, snow and even some sunshine. Kirsty is a short size 8-10 and was aiming to get several layers under each jacket. All weights are taken from Kirsty’s own scales.
This review was published in the April 2025 issue of The Great Outdoors.
