Odlo 3L Packaway Pro review

This lightweight waterproof jacket from Odlo certainly stands out from the crowd with its ‘in-line’ double pockets that are located one directly above the other, but how does it compare to other jackets at this pricepoint? The Packaway Pro uses Odlo’s own Logic 3-layer breathable/waterproof laminate, and to touch it feels nice and tactile, not too dissimilar from Active Shell. Weighing in at 300g means it competes in weight (as well as price) with other brand’s jackets that use fabrics like Gore-Tex’s Active Shell and lightweight eVent. Interestingly, more weight could have been shaved off by leaving out such luxuries as the MP3 player pouch, the internal hook which requires its own fixing patch, and the double sets of volume-adjustors on the hood. Without these it really would be very light.

In use we liked the ‘free move’ fit of the jacket, which along with the suppleness of the material makes for comfortable and unrestricted movement. Although it’s a nice design feature, the top pockets can get slightly in the way of pack straps but on the plus side their position, near the pits, means they can also be used for ventilation if required. The pocket zips themselves are water-resistant, and inside there’s a mesh lining. A soft fabric is located at the front (chinguard) and rear (neckguard?) of the hood, and generally this is a very usable, light and comfortable jacket ideal for summer walking or trekking.