Can a no-frills jacket for a fraction of the price actually keep you dry? We put the Lomo Coriolis through a year of testing to find out
LOMO is a Scottish-based online retailer of watersports clothing and gear. By designing all its own products and selling direct to the consumer with no shops or middlemen, it is able to offer decent quality gear at a remarkably low price.
The Coriolis waterproof boating jacket only comes in this one red colour and unisex cut but sizes range from XS to 2XL. The fabric is unbranded and we couldn’t determine how many layers it features but it is waterproof to 20,000mm and features a DWR coating, so water beads off it, and it has fully taped seams.
The cut is a little shorter and snugger than some (the test sample is a Large, whereas the others are all Medium) so it doesn’t cover your backside when seated. However, the elbows are reinforced and the sleeves feature the usual inner and outer adjustable cuffs.
The main zip isn’t waterproof and only comes up to neck height but velcro tabs on the fleece-lined collar ensure a snug fit round your neck while double storm flaps with a folded seam funnel water away from your chest. Deep cargo pockets with microfleece handwarmers behind are complemented by a pair of water resistant outer chest pockets and a secure inner one.
The hood isn’t the best – even after adjustment it felt a bit loose and floppy – but big reflector panels and neon yellow details and zip pulls makes it easy to spot in low light.
I’ve personally been wearing one for the last year, and other than a few loose threads around the velcro tabs and a tendency for the bright red colour to show the dirt, it has held up remarkably well. It is still 100% waterproof and while it’s not my favourite in terms of looks, fit, or detailing, I can’t knock its value for money.
Specifications: Fabric: LomoTex 4000 (20,000mm) | Sizes: XS-2XL (Unisex) | Weight: 1,045g | Pockets: 2 cargo, 2 chest, 2 handwarmers, 1 internal
Pros
- Unbeatable value for money | Includes reinforced elbows despite the low price | Highly visible with large reflector panels
Cons
- Unisex cut is shorter and snugger than most | Hood lacks the structure of more expensive rivals
