Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 Insulated Jacket Review: The Ultimate All-Weather Ally for the British Outdoors?

There’s a moment every outdoor enthusiast in the UK knows all too well. You set out under a promising sky, a crisp breeze at your back, only for the heavens to open up without warning miles from shelter. I recall a specific trek in the Peak District; what began as a glorious autumn morning quickly devolved into a piercing, sideways rain driven by a relentless wind. My old ‘water-resistant’ jacket gave up the ghost within twenty minutes, leaving me soaked, chilled, and frankly, miserable. That experience cemented a hard-learned lesson: in a climate like ours, ‘good enough’ isn’t good enough. You don’t just need a jacket; you need a reliable sanctuary you can wear. The search for a single garment that can handle a sudden downpour, a biting wind, and a cool day without forcing you to carry three different layers is a perpetual quest. It’s this very quest that led us to test the Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 Insulated Jacket, a piece of kit that promises to be that elusive all-in-one solution.

Before You Buy: A Guide to Choosing the Right Insulated Waterproof Jacket

An insulated waterproof jacket is more than just an item of clothing; it’s a key piece of equipment for anyone who spends time outdoors. It’s a personal micro-climate, engineered to solve two fundamental problems simultaneously: keeping external moisture (rain, sleet, snow) out, while allowing internal moisture (sweat) to escape, all while retaining a layer of warm air to protect you from the cold. The main benefit is consolidation. Instead of a separate fleece and a waterproof shell, you get a single, streamlined garment that simplifies your gear, reduces bulk, and provides instant protection from multiple elements. This is crucial for comfort, safety, and frankly, the simple enjoyment of being outdoors, regardless of the forecast.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who embraces the outdoors in variable conditions. Think of the dedicated hill walker, the weekend dog walker who goes out rain or shine, the bird watcher waiting patiently in a damp hide, or even the daily commuter navigating a wet and windy cityscape. They need reliability and versatility above all else. However, this type of jacket might not be suitable for those engaged in highly aerobic, fast-paced activities in milder weather, where a more minimalist, highly breathable shell with separate layering would be more appropriate. Likewise, for expeditions into extreme alpine or arctic conditions, a more specialised down expedition parka would be required. For most three-season UK adventures, though, an insulated waterproof jacket hits the sweet spot.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Fit & Dimensions: A jacket’s fit is paramount. It shouldn’t be restrictive, but it also shouldn’t be so baggy that it creates cold spots and feels cumbersome. Look for a fit that allows for a baselayer and potentially a light midlayer underneath without feeling tight. Pay close attention to sleeve length and torso coverage; you want a jacket that doesn’t ride up when you raise your arms and offers good protection over your lower back.
• Performance & Technology: This is where the jacket earns its keep. The key metrics are waterproofness and breathability, often measured in hydrostatic head (HH) and moisture vapour transmission rate (MVTR). Brands like GORE-TEX are the gold standard because they offer legally guaranteed performance. The Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 Insulated Jacket uses GORE-TEX ePE, which provides this top-tier performance without the use of environmentally harmful PFCs (PFAS).
• Materials & Durability: The outer fabric, or ‘face fabric’, needs to be tough enough to withstand abrasion from rucksack straps, branches, and rocks. A 2-Layer (2L) construction, like that found here, bonds the waterproof membrane to the outer fabric and protects it with a separate inner lining. Check for robust zips, reinforced stitching in high-wear areas, and quality components like toggles and cuffs, as these are often the first points of failure.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: A great jacket should be easy to live with. Features like an adjustable, stowable hood, easily accessible pockets, and smooth-running zips make a huge difference in the field. Also, consider the long-term care. While most high-tech jackets require specific washing and re-proofing treatments to maintain performance, some are more forgiving than others. The “Hand Wash Only” instruction for this jacket is a key consideration for long-term ownership.

Understanding these elements will empower you to choose a jacket that will serve as a trusted companion for many years of adventures, rather than a disappointing purchase that fails when you need it most.

While the Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 Insulated Jacket is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing the Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0

Pulling the Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 Insulated Jacket from its packaging, the first thing we noticed was its feel. It has a certain substance to it – not heavy, but reassuringly solid. The Jet Black GORE-TEX ePE fabric has a quality, tactile finish that doesn’t rustle as loudly as some technical shells can. In the XL size, it looked generous, immediately suggesting it was designed with practical layering in mind. Running a hand over the seams, they felt impeccably sealed, and the main YKK zip, protected by a substantial storm flap secured with Velcro, moved with a smooth, snag-free action. This initial inspection echoed the sentiment of many users who praised its high-quality construction. It feels less like a flimsy pack-away shell and more like a serious piece of all-weather armour. The subtle Berghaus branding on the chest is understated and classy, making it a jacket that looks just as at home on the high street as it does on a hillside. You can immediately tell that a lot of care has gone into its manufacture, a promising start for a jacket built to face the elements. You can see its full feature set and build quality for yourself.

In the Field: A Deep Dive into the Hillwalker 2.0’s Performance

A jacket’s true worth is only revealed when it’s pitted against the conditions it was designed for. We didn’t just look at the Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 Insulated Jacket; we lived in it. Through driving rain, gusty winds on exposed ridges, and chilly morning dog walks, we put its features to the test to see if the performance matched the promise. Here’s our detailed breakdown.

The GORE-TEX ePE Fortress: Unbeatable Weather Protection

The headline feature of this jacket is its 2-layer GORE-TEX construction, and it does not disappoint. We tested it during a prolonged downpour, and the water-beading performance of the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating was immediately impressive. Rain simply rolls off the surface without a hint of saturation. Even after an hour of constant exposure, the fabric remained impenetrable, keeping our inner layers bone dry. This aligns perfectly with user reports, with one stating, “the waterproofing works 100% as tested recently.” The key here is not just the outer fabric, but the entire system. The main zip is protected by a wide external storm flap held down by strong Velcro tabs, creating a formidable barrier against wind-driven rain. The two hand pockets are also equipped with quality zips, protecting essentials like a phone or map from moisture.

Crucially, the hood is a masterpiece of functional design. It’s fully adjustable with drawcords at the side and a volume adjuster at the back, allowing you to cinch it down securely around your face so it turns with your head, maintaining peripheral vision. The stiffened peak is a standout feature, effectively channeling water away from your eyes and face – a small detail that makes a world of difference in a storm. As one user noted, “The roll-away hood is a major plus, with a peaked cap so water doesn’t get into your eyes like a non-peaked hat will do.” The jacket is also impressively windproof. On a blustery coastal path, the GORE-TEX membrane completely blocked the wind, preventing the chilling effect that can so quickly sap your body heat. The jacket’s ability to shield you from the elements is truly its core strength.

Engineered for Movement: Adjustability and All-Day Comfort

A weatherproof jacket is useless if it’s uncomfortable to wear or restricts your movement. Berghaus has clearly focused on creating a highly customisable fit. Our XL test model offered plenty of room, confirming user feedback that the sizing can be generous. While some found it “larger than expected,” we viewed this as a significant advantage. The space allows for comfortable layering with a thick fleece or even another insulated midlayer for truly frigid conditions, without compressing the insulation and creating cold spots. The jacket never felt bulky or cumbersome, even when fully layered.

The adjustability is comprehensive. The dual-cord hem adjustment allows you to pull the bottom of the jacket in tight, completely sealing out updrafts and preventing heat from escaping. The hook-and-loop adjustable cuffs perform a similar function at the wrists, creating a snug seal over gloves or against your skin. This level of customisation transforms the jacket from a simple covering into a sealed personal environment. It’s this attention to detail that enhances warmth and comfort significantly. Even with its robust build, the jacket is surprisingly lightweight and breathable. During a strenuous uphill climb, we were impressed by how well the GORE-TEX membrane managed internal moisture. We stayed comfortable and relatively sweat-free, avoiding that clammy, “boil-in-the-bag” feeling that plagues lesser waterproof jackets. The mesh lining helps with this, promoting air circulation and preventing the outer shell from sticking to your inner layers.

More Than a Shell: Smart Features for Real-World Use

Beyond its core function of keeping you warm and dry, the Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 Insulated Jacket is packed with practical features that enhance its usability. The most notable of these is the InterActive (IA) zip. This internal zipper is designed to be fully compatible with Berghaus’s range of IA fleeces. We tested this with a compatible fleece, and it zipped in perfectly, creating a single, integrated 3-in-1 jacket system. This is a brilliant feature for versatility, allowing you to adapt the jacket’s insulation level to the season, effectively making it a year-round piece of kit. It transforms from a lightly insulated shell for autumn and spring into a proper winter coat in seconds.

The pockets are another well-executed detail. The two zipped hand pockets are deep and spacious, easily accommodating a map, compass, gloves, and snacks. Their placement is high enough to remain accessible even when wearing a rucksack with a hip belt. When you’re not facing a downpour, the roll-away hood is a fantastic convenience. It folds neatly into the collar and is secured with Velcro tabs, keeping it out of the way and preventing it from flapping in the wind. This gives the jacket a cleaner, smarter look for casual use. Finally, it’s impossible to ignore the Berghaus lifetime repair guarantee, a feature one user was “surprised and pleased to see.” This commitment from the brand to repair any faults free of charge (you just cover postage) speaks volumes about their confidence in the product’s durability and offers incredible long-term value. It elevates the jacket from a mere purchase to a genuine long-term investment in your outdoor comfort, a commitment you can explore further on their product page.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our positive experience with the Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 Insulated Jacket is strongly reflected in the broader user feedback. There is a clear consensus that the jacket’s quality is its defining characteristic. One user summed it up perfectly, stating, “You do pay for the Berghaus name, but then you are getting quality.” Many highlight the excellent build, with comments like “the zips are strong, well sewn” and “it feels well put together as soon as you try it on, sturdy, comfortable, and clearly made with care.” The GORE-TEX performance is universally praised as a key benefit, guaranteeing waterproof and windproof protection that users trust in foul weather.

The most common point of constructive feedback revolves around the fit. Several users noted that the sizing is generous. One individual who ordered a large found “a lot of material around the stomach and arm area.” However, like us, many see this as a positive, with one reviewer mentioning their size small had “plenty of room to move and layer underneath with a fleece or jumper, and it still looks neat and well fitted.” The only other minor criticism we found was that the built-in insulation, while effective, might not be sufficient on its own for the coldest winter days. A user found that with a “cool breeze blowing it did not seem to be fully insulated.” This reinforces our finding that the jacket works best as part of a layering system, particularly with an IA fleece, for maximum cold-weather performance.

How Does It Compare? Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 vs. The Competition

While the Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 Insulated Jacket is a formidable contender, the outdoor jacket market is crowded with excellent options. Here’s how it stacks up against three popular alternatives.

1. Berghaus Vaskye Insulated Puffer Jacket

The Vaskye is an alternative from within the Berghaus family, but it serves a different primary purpose. While the Hillwalker is a waterproof shell with light insulation, the Vaskye is a classic puffer jacket focused purely on warmth. It uses synthetic Hydroloft Polyball insulation that mimics down, providing excellent warmth for its weight, even when damp. However, it is only water-resistant, not waterproof. The Vaskye is the superior choice for cold, dry days, winter walks where rain isn’t forecast, or as a powerful insulating midlayer under a separate shell. If your main enemy is the cold, choose the Vaskye. If your main enemy is the rain and wind, the Hillwalker 2.0 is the clear winner.

2. Amazon Essentials Packable Water-Resistant Puffer Jacket

This jacket represents the budget-friendly end of the spectrum. Its main advantages are its low price point and its incredible packability, compressing into a small stuff sack for easy storage. It offers decent warmth and basic water resistance, making it a great “just in case” layer to keep in a car or a daypack. However, it cannot compete with the Hillwalker 2.0 on any key performance metric. Its water resistance will fail in a proper downpour, its breathability is limited, and its durability is not intended for rugged, long-term use. The Amazon Essentials jacket is for the casual user on a tight budget, whereas the Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 Insulated Jacket is a serious investment for outdoor enthusiasts who demand guaranteed performance.

3. Columbia Delta Ridge Down Hooded Jacket

The Columbia Delta Ridge brings natural down insulation to the table. Filled with 650-fill-power down, it offers a superior warmth-to-weight ratio compared to the Hillwalker’s synthetic insulation. It also features Columbia’s Omni-Heat thermal-reflective lining, which further boosts its heat retention. This makes it an exceptionally warm yet lightweight jacket. The primary trade-off is its performance in wet weather. Although it has a water-resistant shell, down insulation clumps together and loses its insulating properties when it gets wet. The Hillwalker, with its GORE-TEX shell and synthetic insulation, is vastly superior in damp, rainy UK conditions. The Delta Ridge is the specialist for cold, dry mountain environments, while the Hillwalker is the versatile all-rounder for unpredictable weather.

The Final Verdict: Is the Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 Insulated Jacket a Worthy Investment?

After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the Berghaus Hillwalker 2.0 Insulated Jacket is an outstanding piece of outdoor gear that delivers emphatically on its promises. It is a masterclass in versatility, providing a near-perfect balance of guaranteed GORE-TEX waterproofing, effective wind-blocking, and practical, lightweight insulation. Its genius lies in its adaptability; it’s a capable standalone jacket for much of the year and transforms into a formidable winter coat with the simple addition of an InterActive fleece. The exceptional build quality, thoughtful features like the highly adjustable peaked hood, and the peace of mind offered by the lifetime repair guarantee make it a truly sound investment.

It is the ideal choice for the dedicated UK hill walker, the all-weather dog walker, and anyone who refuses to let a grim forecast keep them indoors. While you should be mindful of the generous sizing when ordering, its performance and reliability are beyond question. If you are looking for one jacket to confidently handle the vast majority of conditions the British outdoors can throw at you, look no further. This is a jacket that will not let you down. To make this reliable all-weather ally your own, you can check the latest price and available sizes online.