A Watenlath Softshell Review…

I’ve been looking at waterproof clothing, specifically a black softshell jacket, for several weeks now to replace my knackered (nearly 15 year old) fleece. So I was lucky to have Go Outdoors offer me a Rab Exodus Softshell Jacket to try out…

Today was quite cool and breezy – but dry – not so bad climbing weather and perfect to try out the new softshell jacket. We chose Goat Crag in Watenlath, a peaceful location that we had all to ourselves, and it has the most amazing views right into the central fells!

The crag itself didn’t look too bad in the sunshine as we approached, but close up it’s quite small and a little uninspiring. Luckily it does have some great rough rock though…

As we got geared up to climb the wind was having it’s effect. What poor summer weather we’re having in the North West! Most of May it rained and now climbing in June and having to wear a jacket – shouldn’t it be shorts and t-shirts weather?

But at least we’re climbing! 😀

So what of the jacket?

Rab claim “the Exodus is a softshell jacket designed for use by climbers, belayers, and for mountain use in good weather”. I have to agree! Although I must point out that a major use for this jacket is on my way to and from work (or the pub), bearing in mind that working and living in Cumbria presents certain weather related factors that test clothing a little more than, say, a city commute. 😉 But I suppose if Top Gear can say that pushing a car to it’s limits (sideways) around a track helps show how well it will cope with regular use, Cumbrian commuting should show how a softshell will survive life in London (or any other city). That all said, the jacket’s features will certainly make it an excellent performer on the hill too: pit zips for cooling down, breathability, articulated sleeves, and adjustable cuff tabs to mention just a few. This is an extremely capable technical jacket that should make any trip to the pub, or dash for the train, easy – and certainly in my opinion not just when the weather is “good”…

With respect to Go Outdoors’ delivery services, they are fast, efficient, and well priced (esp. at the moment; see below) – my jacket arrived in just two days! But do make sure you check they have your size in stock – if there is just one size left, say only a small, the size picker defaults to that single option and you can then press the order button not realising that you’ve missed the important step of picking your size. Also, some items are only available for collection – make sure to use the postcode based store stock checker.

Go Outdoors’ standard delivery charge is £4.95 regardless of order value or size. That might seem a little harsh if you are only ordering a small item like a compass, but it’s a great offer for bulky and possibly heavy items like camping equipment. However, currently delivery is free for orders over £70. This is a limited-time offer, so now is the right time to take a peek at what they have in their massive online shop, the prices can be surprisingly attractive.