Zip has gone on my trusty mountain equipment shell jacket.
Any good deals out there for lightweight/packable, a bit breathable (maybe pit zips if not), not too pricey?
If it was a bit newer, I would, but to be honest it is pretty knackered all round, the zip was the final nail in the coffin.
Some good options here...
https://singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/which-waterproof-jacket-under-100/
keela saxon. £47 on amazon. perfect
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Keela-Mens-Saxon-Multi-Active-Jacket/dp/B0188VGTI4?th=1
Have a look at something in the Columbia OutDry range. The material looks a bit plasticky but the waterproof/breathability may be unbeatable - certainly in its price range.
Zips were the bane of my life. Always going. Then I learnt how to tweak them with a pair of pliers and now, whenever they start to fail, a 2 second tweak will have them back as good as new for a few more months.A failing zip is rarely a reason to bin a jacket theses days, unless the teeth are physically torn off.
Cheers guys. Will take a look.
I'd second the Colombia Outdry option, good for biking but (on my model, at least) the hood design isn't really up to proper, off-the-bike mountain stuff - so it depends if you want it for multiple uses.
Oh, and failing zips are usually just the slider going, which can be sorted cheaply. I recently had one replaced on an old Buffalo windshirt by a local seamstress, cost me a fiver after she rummaged round in her drawer of spares.
After my post I somehow tracked down an Altura 540 (rrp £170 ) for £48.79 !!!!! They certainly aren't now ! More like £84 now ! 😎
I've just bought a new dare2b ardor jacket off ebay for walking and climbing in. Isotex 20000 hydrostatic head and 20000 breathable. Removable hood and snow skirt. Zipped put vents and wrist cuffs. £30 delivered.
It would make a great cheap winter mtb jacket if there are any left in your size. I think they have XL left in black
Funnily enough, my ME jacket has just had the main zip fail a few months after the pocket zip failed....
I'm rocking a Vaude Lierne this year...... You can pick them up on Fleabay for about £40. Pit zips, light weight and a good fit.