I tried Peak Performance's Vislight Gore-Tex jacket and now quiet shells feel boring

Even though waterproof shells are pretty versatile, they are often only suited for one purpose, whether it’s hiking, running, skiing or something else. That’s because all these activities require a different approach, which influences the shape and materials of the jacket. If only there was a jacket that does it all!

Peak Performance’s Vislight Gore-Tex C-Knit 3L Shell Jacket takes a very good crack at being the do-it-all jacket we’ve all been waiting for. According to the brand, this shell can be used for anything from skiing to hiking, making it one of the most versatile outer layers on the market today.

And while I think the Peak Performance Vislight is still primarily a skiing jacket – as expected from the freeride skiers’ favourite company – it can certainly be used for other purposes, such as hiking and even commuting. Granted, it might be overkill as a commuter jacket, but then again, there are some urban-focused shells out there with quite hefty price tags.

I’ve been using Peak Performance’s Vislight Gore-Tex C-Knit 3L Shell Jacket for the last few weeks, and it really grew on me. I love the colour, the shape, and the style, and it’s pretty darn functional, too. Is it the best waterproof jacket out there? Well, let’s find out!

Peak Performance Vislight Gore-Tex C-Knit 3L Shell Jacket review

Price and availability

The Peak Performance Vislight Gore-Tex C-Knit 3L Shell Jacket is available now directly from Peak Performance UK for a recommended price of £550 (approx. $708.20/ AU$1,119.64). Strangely, I couldn’t find the jacket at Peak Performance US, and the brand doesn’t have an Australian website, either. The jacket (and Peak Performance gear, in general) can be purchased via third-party retailers.

It’s worth noting that it’s one of the most expensive shells I’ve tried, even beating the Helly Hansen Foil X Jacket ($600/ £500), which isn’t cheap, either. That said, it’s not unusually expensive for a skiing shell. Peak Performance is a premium brand, and its products are sold accordingly.

Specifications

• Type: shell
• Weight: 17oz/ 482g (men’s medium)
• Fit: regular
• Waterproofing (HH): over 28.000mm
• Breathability: RET <6m2
• Windproofing: fully windproof
• Pockets: two zippered hand pockets, one internal chest pocket, one hidden card pocket, one mesh inner pocket
• Pit zips: yes

Design and materials

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The Peak Performance Vislight Jacket features the GORE-TEX 3L C-KNIT fabric, consisting of three layers for premium protection, breathability, and comfort. On the outside, you get a durable, abrasion-resistant face fabric treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating to repel moisture effectively.

Beneath lies GORE-TEX’s advanced ePE membrane (also found in jackets like the Mountain Equipment Makalu), packed with microscopic pores large enough to let sweat vapour escape but small enough to block liquid water from entering.

However, the standout feature is the innovative inner lining – GORE-TEX’s C-KNIT technology – a smoother, softer backer fabric specifically engineered to reduce friction and noise, enhancing comfort significantly compared to traditional waterproof jackets.

The Vislight Jacket’s thoughtful storage options include an inner mesh stuff pocket accessible through the underarm ventilation, a hidden card sleeve inside the left-hand pocket (perfect for ski passes), plus standard secure pockets. The pit zips feature two-way zippers, allowing precise adjustment of airflow for optimal temperature management during activity.

Adjustability is excellent, with two-way adjustments at the hem and sleeves, ensuring a customised fit. The hood offers both height and width adjustment alongside a laminated brim equipped with a built-in RECCO reflector, aiding mountain rescue services in emergency situations without the need for batteries or maintenance.

Lastly, the fit is adaptable thanks to adjustable hems and sleeves. As for sizing, the jacket runs close to the body: I'm typically comfortable in my usual size, but the medium felt snug in a reassuringly athletic way (I’m a slender 6’1”/ 185cm). It’s certainly accommodating enough to wear a fleece jacket underneath.

Performance and comfort

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The Peak Performance Vislight Jacket features a skiing-first design with a straight, slightly loose fit, providing just enough room for layering a base and fleece underneath. The torso length is intentionally shorter (although the hem drops lower at the back), facilitating free movement and twists on skis, while the sleeves are extended to comfortably overlap ski gloves.

Nowhere is the jacket’s ski-specific approach clearer than in its hood design. The hood is generously sized – ideal for accommodating ski helmets – though it might feel oversized if worn without headgear. You can adjust it for a closer fit, but even when it’s taken in, there is space around the cheeks that would not work well in windy conditions.

I particularly liked the laminated brim, which effectively shielded my face from wind and precipitation. It’s broad enough to offer substantial protection from the elements. The fleece-lined chinguard is another thoughtful touch. The collar design itself stands out – it's slightly taller and stiffer, protecting the neck from harsh winds.

The vibrant colourways not only look appealing but serve a practical purpose: in snowy or alpine environments, being highly visible can make a huge difference in rescue situations. Unlike typical hiking jackets designed to blend into natural surroundings, the bright tones here help you stand out clearly against snowy backdrops.

Aside from its safety credentials, the jacket boasts excellent weatherproofing thanks to the GORE-TEX C-KNIT material. Rain and snow bead effortlessly off its surface, and breathability remains impressive – I didn’t experience any uncomfortable clamminess even during intense activity.

Storage is ample: there's an internal card sleeve perfectly suited for ski passes, alongside more versatile pockets suitable for everyday use. I appreciated the thoughtful little design details, like the flush pockets that expand when you put something in them. It’s also worth clarifying that, despite appearances, the internal mesh pocket isn't intended as a stuff sack – the jacket conveniently packs away into its hood instead.

Verdict

Is Peak Performance’s Vislight Gore-Tex C-Knit 3L Shell the ultimate waterproof jacket? Well, yes and no. It’s versatile enough to handle both the slopes and woodland trails with ease, but its ski-centric fit and features mean it's not quite a one-size-fits-all solution. The shorter torso and elongated sleeves work brilliantly when carving down mountains but might feel unusual on casual walks in town.

Then there's the price: it's certainly premium. You could easily pick up two – or perhaps even three – decent waterproof jackets for the same money. And let’s be honest, the bold, colour-blocked styling won't appeal to everyone. Personally, I’m a big fan, as it not only looks striking but also increases visibility in snowy terrain.

Ultimately, if you're looking for a high-quality, versatile jacket that transitions seamlessly from ski slopes to forest hikes (and can swallow the hefty price tag), this jacket won't disappoint. I love my Vislight and look forward to wearing it well into spring and beyond.