The goods and bads about coats! (Jackets - General)

Member Name: ayres123

Product:	Jackets - General
Date:	09/02/01 (143 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: An insight into buying a jacket!

Disadvantages: Might not be everyons opinion

I have been walking now for almost 4 years.It is a very rewarding hobby,which also improves your physical fitness.You get to see some amazing landscapes and scenery,however as with all sports it comes at a cost.this opinion is about coats but I will also write ones about footwear and gaiters.

when buying a coat you must consider three factors.
1.Does it fit with a few layers of clothes underneath and will it fit as you grow.
2.Is it made from a reliable material.
3.How long will it last.
When buying a coat you must save up a bit of money.From previous experience I have found the more expensive and brand names ARE better.

You should consider buying a Gore-Tex coat as this is a brilliant material.If you live in a area where hiking is popular then you could probably pick one up for around £100.However,if you live somewhere where hiking is not as popular then you could be looking at prices from £180+.So,your best bet would be to buy one from the internet.There are some very good websites with decent gear on.

Next,before you buy a coat(unless you buy it from the internet or a catalogue) you should try it on with a fleece jacket on as this will alter the size.I would go a size higher than you generally have,so if normally you wear a size M I would advise a sizeL.This allows growing room and clothing room.

Makes like Berghaus,Lowe Alpine and Spray Way are expensive makes but are worth while in the long run.They will last for 3 to 4 years at extreme whether conditions.this doesn't seem long but a cheaper version could only last a year and not be fully waterproof.

Another factor you must consider is the terrain you will be walking in.Somewhere like The Lake District I would advise a Specialist Mounteneering jacket whereas someone who walks on Dartmoor a less specialized one.

All in all though I would advise saving up around £100 to £200 to buy a decent jacket.It t
he long run it is worth it.

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