New from Craghoppers of Manchester, the Anderson Waterproof Cagoule is a light, waterproof and multi-use outer garment, writes Mike Gormley.
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I have been a Craghoppers wearer for many years and some of their kit is still going strong after a lot of use, so I felt it was time to update. Clearly it was a good thing to do as this brand has moved forward and updated a great deal. I start with the Anderson Cagoule.
Cagoule is a terminology that goes back to the 1960s and is now used as generic term for lightweight over-the-head garments. Perhaps unfortunately, for a while cagoule became a slightly derogatory term for ‘cheap and cheerful’ outdoor kit. Moving forward to 2022 and we have the cagoule, incidentally originally conceived by a former Royal Marine, significantly updated. The Anderson is a light and easy to wear item with a wide range of uses.
My first proper outing with this garment was on a very early start on Dartmoor, which chose to be very wet indeed for a few hours. I stayed dry in the Anderson, albeit out in the rain intermittently. But on days like this and on subsequent outings when the weather has been changeable, from downpours to warm and dry, in these conditions The Anderson has been ideal; especially when backed up by a warm layer such as the Craghoppers Corey Plus, but more on that another day.
The part-recycled polyester material is ripstop and treated with PFC-free DWR so water will run off, and it does. The AquaDry membrane is guaranteed waterproof and breathable. I have certainly stayed dry in the rain and not had that dank sweaty dampness on the inside. On another day out it was mostly dry with the risk of a shower, and I was bone dry even though I got a bit sweaty at times on the hills. The Anderson works well against a chill breeze but does need another layer to keep you warm. When not in use it packs away well.
Being a smock design it is an ‘over the head’ and has a one side zip opening to make fitting and removing easier. I wasn’t sure about this initially but soon got used to it and I am sure it helps to keep the cost down. On the opposite side is a drawcord to adjust the hem. As a smock, the Anderson has plenty of space for a really good size front pocket. This can be accessed from both sides by generous zipped openings. Importantly, the pocket is drop type so any small items fall to the bottom and don’t fall out; crucial for smaller items such as phones, GPS, compass and even gloves. Items don’t easily pass through or drop out if you don’t have time, or forget, to zip up. This pocket is of course very handy to stow a map or other paperwork and will keep it out of the weather but ready to get hold of as required. If you need a bit of hand protection with zips open and rucksack on, you can pass the waist strap through allowing the pocket to be used as well.
The cuffs have adjustable closures to help keep weather out and allow for venting. The hood is a neat double zipped foldaway, which becomes a good collar with front zipped up, and is good weather protection. Worn with the likes of the Corey Fleece, which has a useful fleece collar, this makes for a cosy set up. There is a good range of colours for the Anderson; this one is Mahogany and Potters Clay.
Craghoppers stand by their products with a life guarantee but from my experience this should not be required with normal wear.
[images © Jean or Mike Gormley]
