Do you know anything that is more painful than being in a wet outfit? Growing up in Cornwall, UK, which has an average of rainy days per year, with a tendency to provide the four seasons all in the same day, I’ve completed my fair share of rainy dog walks along with thru-hikes and bike rides. If I stayed inside each occasion that the weather was bad, honestly, I’d never go out so the right waterproof jacket is now an essential item in my wardrobe.
Not all waterproof jackets are created equally, and while a see-through poncho might be perfect for a rainy occasion but it’s unlikely to help during a mountain storm. Here’s what you should think about.
How can you tell the differences between water-repellent and waterproof?
If you’re looking for protection against the elements and elements, choose outerwear that is waterproof as well as water-resistant. Water-resistant clothing will provide some protection against light rains, but lets water in very quickly.
A waterproof jacket can stand against the harshest of situations, but if do not buy one that’s breathable, you’ll be prone to an accumulation of moisture on the inside of the jacket instead. When engaging in intense exercise it’s still going to leave you soaked and uncomfortable. A coat that has a waterproof membrane is a great way to make sure it’s breathable and allows moisture escape. You’ve probably heard of Gore-Tex, the most famous waterproof membrane available. It functions by using tiny pores that are small enough to stop drops of rain from entering your jacket while being large enough to let sweat wick out. It’s not the only waterproof membrane on the market these days, and many outdoor brands now have their own versions.
If your jacket isn’t as water-resistant as it was in the past, the good thing is that you don’t have to purchase a new one. A water-repellent, durable coating (DWR) has been applied to the exterior of a waterproof or water-resistant jacket. In the event that your jacket begins to lose impermeability, it’s very easy to apply a DWR yourself. To see if your jacket requires a DWR top-up, just splash it with water to see whether the water evaporates and slides off. If it does, then you’re good. If it leaves areas of wet, dark fabric instead, it’s time to buy a DWR replenishment item and recoat your coat.
How do I know what degree of protection a waterproof jacket offers me?
There’s a handy scale to use, and a lot of stores will display a waterproof rating next to their shell jackets. The minimum is 5,000mm of waterproofing needed for a coat that is considered to be waterproof and not just water-resistant however this isn’t enough to stand up to much less than light sprinkles or drizzle. 10,000mm-15,000mm will withstand most downpours. 20,000mm and upwards is recommended for extremely massive deluges or extreme weather however, the jackets will generally be heavier.
What fit should I go for?
As you’re likely to be walking around in a bikini and a waterproof jacket, buy a jacket with enough space to layer. For hiking in three seasons, an outdoor jacket that allows you to wear a base coat and an overcoat underneath will suffice, however, if you’re partaking in winter mountaineering, it’s best to have something a bit more roomy to allow you to layer.
What other features are useful?
Seek out jackets that have taped seams. This means that the seams have been sealed to stop water from entering through the tiny gaps. Storm flaps are another practical feature: flaps on the outside that cover zippers on jackets Another area with a porous surface where rain could get in. Personally, for all my outdoor activities, I would prefer a rain jacket with an elevated hood. The hood keeps rain from your eyes. Jackets with only a hood that is drawn up let the rain trickle down your face.
