Manfrotto Pro Soft Shell Jacket

Think of Manfrotto and you think of camera supports - particularly tripods and monopods. Recently though, they've branched out into camera bags and clothing. Or apparel as they like to call it.

Along with gloves, hats and vests are jackets designed for photographers. There are currently three jackets in the Manfrotto line-up - there's a Pro Field Jacket, Pro Wind Jacket and the Pro Soft Shell Jacket we're testing here.

The jacket is designed to function in a range of weather conditions. The fabric is breathable and has a special coating to make it water repellent, while the jacket is also wind resistant thanks to another special coating. There are also protective zippers to stop water entering the jacket.

In use, the jacket coped very well. It was used out on location in a range of weather and temperatures, and while its not a substitute for a fully dedicated cold weather jacket, it did a very good job of keeping us warm, dry and comfortable - even with a chilly east wind blowing off the sea. Not only that, but because its been designed by Italians, it fits comfortably and looks the part as well.

There's little to fault the jacket by the relatively high price, but in the world of technical outdoor wear, it's pretty competitive.