I've been told that the Changabang is strictly speaking an alpine climbing and mountaineering jacket, but I've found it to be a fantastic all round hard shell that keeps out the wind rain snow and sleet superbly.
The 3-layer GORE-TEX® Pro Shell Ascendor II fabric with 3-layer GORE-TEX® Pro Shell Tenacity fabric reinforcements makes it tough enough for all day in the mountains, waterproof enough to keep out 'sheeting' North Wales rain and snow for 8 straight hours, and breathable enough so that you stay dry underneath too.

The underarm zip vents are great for allowing in a little air when its hot, and often means that you don't have to remove the jacket as soon as you warm up a little - you can unzip the vents, let the air circulate and remain warm and dry.

The jacket looks and feels to be excellent quality, and it's almost tailored fit means that as well as protecting you from the elements, it'll look really good too. I agree that it's not all about the looks, but the fit of the Changabang means it keeps you well protected, feels extremely comfortable and light to wear, and allows freedom of movement whatever you're doing.

The Changabang has a hood large enough to accommodate a climbing helmet, but with sufficient elastic tighteners to keep the rain off you whilst not obstructing your vision. I've often resisted putting up my hood due to the restricted vision it gives me, but that's not a problem with the Changabang.

The jacket whilst well fitting allows room for several layers underneath - the sleeves are shaped and articulated, allowing freedom of movement and fitting the cuffs neatly to your wrist.

The Stratum Storage System with 2 large chest pockets and 2 ‘A4’ sized Napoleon pockets all with protective plackets give plenty of storage room both inside and on the outside of the jacket.

The Changabang also contains a Zip-out internal snow skirt and GPS / Ski Pass pocket - great for keeping the snow out of your hardshell, and very handy for storing and accessing your GPS when needed.

Adjustable cuffs and dual tether hem drawcords mean the jacket can be adjusted in almost any fashion so that the best and most comfortable fit can be achieved.

I've used the Changabang for everything from a gentle stroll in light rain, hiking in Snowdonia, and even running in the Brecon Beacons while attempting the 'Fan Dance' - the Changabangs style, fit, versatility and comfort is fantastic - coupled with a Helly Base layer and an Astron soft shell, it kept me warm and dry in the Beacons in howling gales and torrential rain, yet allowed me to run the downhill stretches without overheating - awesome!

At circa £330 it's a bit ore expensive than some, but I think its quality and versatility makes it worth every penny.