My first impressions of the Dyfi Active Shell were focused on the colour and looks; understandable given that I nabbed it from Singletrack for photoshoot dressing-up. It’s a happy looking shell that works as well during everyday wear as it does in the hills. Unlike shells from some other technical clothing companies, the Dyfi is a top you could buy and use for more than one purpose. This is not another niche product that fulfils my pointless consumerist needs; it’s a jacket that costs little, but gives a lot.
Reflective tags on the arms, chest and bum keep me a little safer on late night rides. Four-way stretch panels give all the movement I need. Two cinch cords on the waist and a light fleece lining on the collar give it a snug, but not uncomfortable fit. A small chest pocket takes keys and pennies for trips to the shop. It all just works.
My only gripe is the single-sided nature of the stowaway zip. This makes it harder to re-open the stowed jacket in a rush; a double-sided zip would be more practical. Not really a deal breaker for a £39 jacket, but still a minor frustration nevertheless; hopefully something Howies will address in future…
The only shell I can compare this to is one of my favourite shells from Patagonia. At only 20% of the price of my Patagonia shell, if the Dyfi lasts equally as long I will consider having a new favourite for daily duties.
Overall: “Complicated isn’t clever”: a truth well spoken by Howies, and an apt tag line for a brilliantly simple jacket.