Finally it's here! The Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell has arrived and is in stock now...
When we first saw the Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell we were really impressed. Ultra-light, fully waterproof and designed exactly for what we do - mountain running. Great.
Now it's arrived we are pretty excited about the Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell. It's not unique in using a semi-transparent colouring and it's got plenty of great features and we really like the fit. The Gargoyle/Transparent finishing is necessary to keep the focus on creating a lightweight waterproof pullover. To add colour means to add layers and thickness - this adds weight. The primary design brief behind the Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell was to create a lightweight, packable and affordable trail running waterproof whilst meeting race requirements.
With lightweight at the fore, the Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell has all the essential features needed in a mountain running waterproof jacket and nothing more. Weighing in at 125g it's designed to meet race requirements (invariably races specify a fully waterproof/taped seam upper and lower) but at the minimal possible weight as (in theory) most trail running waterproof jackets will live in your pocket, pack or hip belt as an emergency item.
Packability also comes high up the list for the Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell design. As per above, it'll spend most of its life stowed away and taking up and least room possible. Clothing items in particular can bulk out hip belts and pockets and force you into using a small pack or larger hip belt. The Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell is one of the lowest bulk waterproofs we stock, it simply rolls into it's hood and will take up the minimal amount of space.
It's also worth mentioning the other features on the Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell. There's a usable hood, with a wired section to offer a small peak. The hood has a draw cord to adjust the volume and to keep it on in bad weather.
The bottom hem to the Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell has an elasticated cord to keep it tight. The sleeves feature a simple cord to use as a thumb loop - this keeps the sleeves extended and the wrists/hands covered.
The Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell also has a quality YKK waterproof zip with two heads - it's a locking zip and the lower head is great for opening the pullover whilst keeping the Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell snug around the neck.
All in all we really like the Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell. The weight is perfect for an emergency/occasional waterproof running jacket and they've got all the essential features just right. The price is great too - the RRP is just £100 which is spot on for an essential piece of kit.
For more information and to buy one, see our
Inov-8 Race Ultra Shell page.
