Waterproof or water-resistant?
A waterproof garment is designed to keep out sustained and driving rain, while a water-resistant garment is generally intended to cope with lighter showers for shorter periods.
Waterproof and breathable jackets are designed to prevent rain from entering while allowing some moisture vapour from perspiration to escape. This makes them particularly useful for active outdoor pursuits.
Windproof and softshell garments are generally more breathable than waterproofs but offer less protection from prolonged rain. They can be ideal between showers or during high-output activities when breathability is more important.
Hard shell or softshell?
A hardshell is essentially a waterproof outer layer. It is usually uninsulated, allowing you to add warmth underneath depending on the conditions.
A softshell is generally more flexible and breathable, offering wind protection and some water resistance rather than complete waterproofing.
There are also insulated waterproof jackets, which combine a waterproof outer with down or synthetic insulation for cold and wet conditions.
What does breathable mean?
Breathability describes how effectively moisture vapour from inside your jacket can escape through the fabric. The performance of waterproof fabrics can vary considerably.
However, even the most breathable jacket can struggle to keep you comfortable if you're working hard, wearing a non-wicking baselayer, or the weather conditions don't allow moisture vapour to escape effectively.
A good layering system is therefore just as important as the waterproof itself. Start with a moisture-wicking baselayer and add insulation underneath your waterproof when required.
What is DWR?
The outer fabric of a waterproof jacket isn't usually the part that provides the actual waterproof barrier. Instead, it protects the waterproof membrane or coating underneath.
Most waterproof jackets have a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment on the outer fabric. This encourages rain to bead up and run off rather than soaking into the material.
Over time, dirt, abrasion and use can reduce the effectiveness of the DWR, causing the outer fabric to wet out. This doesn't necessarily mean your jacket is leaking, but it can reduce breathability.
Regular cleaning and re-proofing can help restore the jacket's performance.
What features should you look for?
The design and features of a waterproof garment are just as important as the fabric.
Hood: A good technical hood should be adjustable and move with your head. If you climb or mountaineer, check that it can accommodate a helmet.
Vents: Pit zips and other ventilation openings allow excess heat to escape when you're working hard. Even highly breathable waterproofs can struggle during strenuous activity.
Zips: Look for waterproof or storm-protected zips where appropriate. If you'll use your jacket in winter, make sure the zips are easy to operate while wearing gloves.
Pockets: Consider where the pockets are positioned, particularly if you'll wear a backpack or climbing harness. High chest pockets are often easier to access with a pack.
Adjustments: Adjustable cuffs, hems and hoods help seal out wind and rain while allowing you to control ventilation.
Getting the right fit
Fit is one of the most important considerations when choosing a waterproof. A jacket with the latest technical fabric won't perform well if it is uncomfortable or doesn't work with your other layers.
Try your waterproof on with the baselayers and midlayers you expect to wear underneath. Check that you have enough freedom of movement without the jacket being excessively loose.
If you use a backpack, try the jacket with your pack and make sure the pockets remain accessible. For winter use, check that you can operate the zips and adjusters while wearing gloves.
Key buying tips
- Choose a waterproof breathable jacket for prolonged wet-weather activities.
- Consider a softshell when breathability and flexibility are more important than complete waterproofing.
- Look for a good adjustable hood, ventilation and practical pocket placement.
- Make sure the jacket fits comfortably over your usual layers.
- Check that features such as zips and cuffs are easy to operate in poor weather.
- Maintain the DWR treatment by regularly washing and re-proofing your waterproof.
- Choose a jacket suited to your activity rather than simply buying the most technically advanced option
Outdoor Gear Chat
There are big changes happening in the world of waterproofs. They're a long time coming and are great news for the environment, BUT we will all need to learn how to use and maintain the new technologies.
As technical garment users, we all need to better understand why these changes are needed, how they will impact our time in the hills and why we will need to wash and re-proof our waterproof garments more regularly.
There is a world of science in your waterproof jacket - we're here to help you understand it.