Finally, a waterproof jacket that's light enough for summer showers and stylish enough for this fussy fashion editor

The people at Montane are experts when it comes to designing durable outdoor clothing, so when I found myself in need of a reliable, functional jacket for a hiking holiday, I reached straight for their Vortic Waterproof Jacket.

Despite the recent heatwave, there’s no denying that every British wardrobe needs one of the best waterproof jackets. Prepped to protect you from any type of sudden downpour, much like the best wellies and the best sunglasses, they’re all-season essentials. I’ve often found waterproof jackets to be too sweaty in the summer, so finding one in the warmer months can be a tricky task. I was keen to avoid anything too heavy or warm and reach for something lightweight and breathable instead, which is where the Vortic stepped in.

British clothing brand Montane has been engineering mountain-ready clothing for over 30 years, so I knew it would fare pretty well on my Lake District holiday, but being a fashion editor, I was also after something a bit more stylish. Could the Vortic Waterproof Jacket be both practical and stylish? Here’s everything you need to know.

Montane Vortic Waterproof Jacket: Function & technology

What better way to put a mountain-proof jacket (and me!) through its paces than climbing the tallest mountain in England - Scafell Pike. Anyone who has been to The Lake District will know the weather can change in an instant, so layers are key.

Whilst I would need this jacket to keep me dry (it is the Lakes after all!), it also needed to be lightweight enough for when I got too hot when climbing. Thankfully, the Vortic delivered in every aspect.

The Petrichor technology keeps rain and wind out while allowing heat and moisture to escape. There’s no denying this jacket is fully waterproof; not a drop got in. I also really liked the underarm zips for extra ventilation, which came in especially handy when I worked up a sweat. Other key features include offset seams for comfort and easy movement, and the peak hood for extra protection on the face. Once I reached the summit, it wasn’t raining but was a lot cooler, so it worked its magic in keeping the wind out too.

It has two front zip pockets to safely store valuables - I used it for my phone and keys, and there was plenty of room.

Montane Vortic Waterproof Jacket: Fit & Style

I wore my standard size, a UK size 8 and found it fit perfectly. It has a fitted silhouette, which makes it feel quite sleek but still allows plenty of room if you want to layer underneath. I wore a T-shirt and a slim fleece underneath mine.

I went for the lilac haze colour, which felt perfect for spring, but it also comes in two other equally chic colours - pink clay and mulberry. The muted colour offering really sets it above the rest, making it seem more fashionable than a selection of brighter hues.

As well as using it for hiking, I also wanted a jacket that I could wear with the best jeans for wandering around the charming Lake District towns, and I found the Vortic also slotted in really well with my everyday wardrobe. I could certainly get away with wearing this on a rainy commute back in London.

Montane Vortic Waterproof Jacket: Cleaning & Care

Montane’s products are built to last a lifetime, so although they make a hefty dent in the wallet initially, expect to wear their pieces forever. Montane is also committed to creating sustainable designs, with the Vortic Waterproof Jacket also containing a considerable amount of recycled fabrics.

It can be machine-washed at 30 degrees, making it super easy to keep clean and well looked-after, ensuring that lifetime guarantee.

Montane Vortic Waterproof Jacket: Verdict

Due to the high-end technology, the Vortic doesn’t come cheap at £240, so it’s certainly a considered investment. Designed for hiking and walking, if this is an activity you regularly do, then the Vortic Waterproof Jacket is a no-brainer and the best technical waterproof jacket I have come across. From beginners to experts, it’s a jacket that works for everyone, whether you’re embarking on your first walking holiday or your 50th, but it’s certainly worth considering cost-per-wear and how often you will use it.

Of course, if you’re looking for a waterproof coat recommendation that is a bit more fashionable, this Rains design would be a better choice, although it doesn’t beat Montane’s technical aspects when it comes to more adventurous walks and hikes.

So for a high-tech all-rounder that can be taken from the mountains to the everyday, Montane’s Vortic Waterproof jacket makes a worthy investment.

How to wear yours