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The ROC GTX Jacket from  Haglof’s is perfectly suited to Hikers and Backpackers a-like due to the simple design that will stand the test of time with a rucksack on your back.

First of all, this is not a shell that you will pop in your rucksack for the off chance of rain, but a jacket for trips/days out where rain will definitely be a factor. The 3-layer Gore-Tex will take all the rain and wind that can be thrown at it whilst still having impressive breathability. I tend to be a relatively quick walker and as such perspire more than others, over the past year using the ROC GTX Jacket the breathability of the jacket impressed me. I can’t say at the end of a days walking I found my mid or base layers wet out (I also use good moisture wicking layers), are rare especially with a pack on my back.

We at UOG make lots of recommendations to our customers for various specifications to look out for when choosing a Waterproof Jacket. One factor we always recommend considering is the Denier (D) number, basically the higher the D the more abrasive, this also affects the longevity of the DWR coating on the outer fabric. Generally, WP jackets run between 15D and 70D+, thus with  Haglof’s ROC GTX Jacket offering an impressive 75D across the whole outer fabric this jacket can take a lot of ‘punishment’. This is particularly beneficial when wearing a rucksack, as the friction rucksacks create between the contact points on WP Jackets causes degradation of the outer fabric and the DWR coating, thus the 75D outer on the ROC GTX Jacket greatly improves both the longevity of the DWR coating and the fabric it’s self will be left unblemished. This is a big plus point for this on multi-day treks with 8kg+ rucksacks.

The Jacket does not come with a heap of additional features such as chest pockets, pit zips or belay compatible two-way zip. In my opinion, the  ROC Gore-Tex jacket does not require these features. The sleek design, water-resistant zippers and minimal stitch lines due to the stripped-back design teamed with the single use of 75D face fabric allows all the efforts to go into creating a durable jacket that has mitigated any potential entry points for water. The adjustable hem toggles work well and are positioned well (just behind the hip) to not interfere with rucksack hip belts. The same can be said for the positioning/design of the pockets, these are located high enough to avoid being covered by hip belts and allow easy access whilst wearing your rucksack. The adjustable cuffs are simple and easy to use, with minimal fuss with or without gloves.

When it comes to fit, I found the jacket to generous throughout the body and arm diameter (I have a chest size of 40’’), this is good when looking to use bulkier layers in colder climates yet not so roomy that the jacket could also be teamed up with a base layer or lighter mid-layer. The length of the jacket and sleeves are perfect for me with a height of 185cm (just short of 6’1’’) in the medium size any taller and I would consider going the Large for length.

All in all,  Haglof’s ROC Gore-Tex Jacket is an ideal choice for walking with a rucksack and for days when heavy persistent rain is on the cards, AKA, UK weather. True to size with a nice sleek design with plenty of colour options to choose from.

Chris Futers
About the author: Chris fully immerses himself in many outdoor sports and challenges. Whether it's Multi-day hikes, Rock Climbing, Kayaking, Trail Running or Bikepacking, the allure of the outdoors is his true passion. Chris likes to test himself against the wilds, taking on multiple challenges/events such as the Lakes Travers Trail Race, TGO Challenge and Cycling the Coast to Cost (C2C) to name a few. Having worked and volunteered as a coach/instructor for multiple outdoor sports and pursuits, Chris likes to help others achieve and connect with the outdoors, always eager to pass on his knowledge and experience. Chris is our Customer Service Team Leader, joining the UOG team in 2020. Read more from Chis Futers