Berghaus VapourLight Hyper Smock 2.0

Berghaus is a name synonymous with innovation.  Throughout their history they have developed many iconic creations such as; The Yeti Gaiter, Vapour Storm Jacket, and the Hyper Smock.  Luckily for us the folks at Berghaus recently blessed us with the opportunity to test and review the VapourLight Hyper Smock 2.0, the latest creation from the Hyper Smock lineup.  Berghaus runs on a very simple philosophy in which they live to inspire people to get out there, to escape the routine, to discover their surroundings, whether they’re running, climbing, skiing, hiking or biking. Live in the moment. Live for adventure. The people at Berghaus are determined to design gear that gets you outdoors and protect you from the elements so you have no excuses to continue your adventure.  The VapourLight Hyper Smock 2.0 is designed specifically with trail runners in mind, so earlier this month we gave this Smock to the adventure runners at BW for a barrage of testing in all the elements. Here’s what we discovered…

Key Features:

• Light and fully waterproof jacket
• Super-lightweight fabric Hydroshell™ Hyper
• Zipped pocket for dry storage
• Elasticated binding on cuffs and hem for secure fit
• Comes with its own stuff sack for easy storage
• Built-in hood
• Weight: 2.6oz

Design:

For being so small and lightweight the VapourLight Hyper Smock packs a lot of technology in just a little bag.  Most impressively is that it weighs in at a feathery light 2.6 oz, which is unbelievable.  The previous versions of the jacket weighed in around 4 oz. and Berghaus was able to reduce weight by using an innovative new super-lightweight fabric Hydroshell™ Hyper.  They also took into consideration every aspect of the smock’s design process, which resulted in their use of exclusive ultra-lightweight seam tape to create a closer fitting hood with a tab down feature to reduce weight and eliminate flapping.  They also achieved better wet weather protection with the hood via binding opening and a tab down feature when not in use. The fabric is a Polyurethan proofed nylon that is so thin and light it is hard to believe that it is actually water proof.  Overall, for being so light and the thinness of the nylon, the Hyper Smock 2.0 is actually more durable than the previous designs.

Waterproof:

It is important to keep in mind that the VapourLight Hyper Smock 2.0 is designed for trail runners and other adventure seekers who will continue their quest irregardless of the weather.  If it was a monsoon and you needed to walk a few blocks to pick up something at the store, we would suggest a different jacket.  However if you did take Hyper Smock 2.0 you would be amazed about how dry you would stay.  Even though the jacket is lightweight and features incredibly translucent fabric, the jacket works extremely well in the rain.  If you are out on a run and rain is a possibility then you can rest easy knowing that the Hyper Smock 2.0 will protect you.  Given its versatility and lightweight design you can easily bring this along even if the weather looks good just for peace of mind.

Comfort/Fit:

Given it’s lightweight you will hardly notice the extra weight on your body as you run, which is a big plus.  In addition, the Hyper Smock features a close-fitting hood and elasticated, Lycra-bound cuffs which make for a secure fit that also keeps away the weather.  The jacket fit comfortably and securely against our bodies but allowed enough room as to not restrict us while running.  The only issue with this snug fit is that it is not the most breathable jacket on the market, but does a pretty good job of ventilating while working up a sweat.

Value:

If there is a lighter jacket that protects runners as well as the Berghaus VapourLight Hyper Smock 2.0 then we have yet to find it.  For anyone that loves to take their runs on the trails or up the mountain where the weather can change quickly, then the Hyper Smock 2.0 may become your new best friend.  Priced at $150, the Hyper Smock 2.0 offers great value in comparison to higher end competitors while being lighter than any other jacket.  If you are looking for something that will protect you in a variety of conditions with no added weight or restrictions to your adventure then take a peak at the Hyper Smock 2.0.

Buy now for $150 or for more information visit Berghaus.com