Mountain Equipment

Established in 1961 by Pete Hutchinson, who had been making equipment behind his Manchester climbing shop; the pre-company workshop years are not the founding date.

Consider how much time the shell will spend being worn in bad weather rather than carried for emergencies. Face fabric, reinforcement, hood design and ventilation influence that choice alongside weight. Check each model's documented features and fit, especially if you expect to use a helmet, harness or substantial insulating layer.

For the general method, see how to choose a waterproof jacket and waterproof ratings explained.

• Mountain Equipment Makalu Men's Jacket

Country of origin

United Kingdom

Founded

1961

Price range

Mid to premium

Jacket families

Makalu, Saltoro, Odyssey, Raintower, Tupilak, Lhotse

Warranty

Guarantee covers the original purchaser for the reasonable life of the product against defects in components, materials and workmanship; wear, accidents and inappropriate use are excluded.

Repair programme

Wash & Repair Workshop (UK customers only): published prices include £25 small waterproof patch, £30 large patch, £35 wash/reproof, £20 zip-slider replacement; completion can take up to six weeks.

Sustainability

States an aim to be PFAS-free across all new production by Autumn/Winter 2025, and that from AW25 all waterproof garments use PFAS-free DWRs — targets and DWR-level statements, not confirmation that every stocked product is PFAS-free.