How to choose a waterproof jacket: a buying guide

How to choose a waterproof jacket: a buying guide

Our detailed guide to choosing a waterproof jacket will help you find the gear that best suits your needs

A waterproof jacket is an essential part of outdoor equipment and should be part of every backpack, whether hiking, climbing or cycling.

However, knowing how to choose a waterproof jacket can feel a bit like alchemy. With so many different fabrics, constructions and features used in outdoor clothing, choosing the right jacket has become a real test.

The outerwear department of most outdoor stores can feel like a wilderness of polyester and nylon. There are countless options available; The right choice guarantees comfort and reliability day after day.

With that in mind, we've put together a comprehensive guide to choosing a waterproof jacket.

How to choose a waterproof jacket

We have divided our guide into the following subsections.

• Wozu brauchst du deine Jacke?
• Wasserdichte Bewertungen
• Arten der Abdichtung
• Wichtige Merkmale, nach denen Sie suchen sollten

Why do you need your jacket?

The first question you should ask yourself is: “What do I need my rain jacket for?”

I have three different rain jackets in my outdoor arsenal: a water-repellent softshell jacket for climbing and hiking; a hardshell jacket for mountaineering and trekking; and a more durable and stiffer technical jacket from Haglöfs for sailing and wider wilderness wear.

alt="How to choose a waterproof jacket Haglöfs">Atlas & BootsMy Hagöfs Grym Evo jacket

Many waterproof jackets are designed for a specific activity. Some jackets are designed for high-intensity activities like running or cycling. These should be more breathable to keep the wearer comfortable by allowing extra heat to escape quickly.

Others are for mountaineers and contain more durable fabrics. Although these are stiffer on the body, they can withstand the demands of mountaineering such as negotiating rough rocks or carrying a heavy backpack. They can also be equipped with features like helmet-compatible hoods, underarm ventilation, or higher pockets for access when wearing a climbing harness.

Activity-specific jackets must strike a balance between durability, waterproofing and breathability, often swapping one – at least partially – for the other.

alt="How to choose a waterproof jacket Elbrus Summit">Atlas & BootsMy hardshell has higher pockets for access when I'm wearing a harness

Most people are looking for a jacket that offers everyday protection and sits comfortably between extremes. You probably don't have the goal of climbing an eight-thousander or riding a stage of the Tour de France this weekend. Jackets in this category tend to have a wider range of brands, prices, fits, weights and colors.

Before you buy a waterproof jacket, think carefully about what you will use it for.

Waterproof reviews

All waterproof jackets should come with a waterproof rating. The rating is determined by a water column test, which is also used to assess the waterproofness of a tent.

alt="The hydrostatic head test determines a waterproof rating">Taiga/ShutterstockA water column test determines a waterproof rating

A hydrostatic pressure test involves tightening the fabric under a 2.54 cm (1 inch) wide sealed water hose. It is observed for 24 hours to assess how many millimeters of water the tissue repels before it seeps through. The height at which water seeps through the fabric is measured in millimeters, meaning a 5,000mm waterproof jacket can withstand 5,000mm of water in 24 hours.

In the UK, a fabric must withstand at least 1,500mm to be declared waterproof. The table below is a useful guide to help you decide which rating meets your needs.

Types of waterproofing

Different construction methods are used for waterproof jackets. It varies depending on the manufacturer, but generally a waterproof jacket consists of two or three layers: a face fabric, a membrane and possibly a backing. The outer material gives the jacket durability while the membrane acts as a waterproof barrier.

GORE-TEX® has long been the choice for performance outerwear. Products made from GORE-TEX® fabric are typically durable, waterproof, windproof and highly breathable.

eVent® works well in high humidity where it is difficult to release steam. eVent® fabric allows steam to pass through freely without the garment becoming too hot and sweaty inside.

Dryvent™ fabrics were developed by The North Face to be fully waterproof, windproof and breathable. The outside of the textile is treated with a water-repellent finish that helps form drips and repel water from the surface.

Pertex® Shield uses a fusion of technically advanced fabrics with a breathable, microporous, waterproof coating. With a focus on durability, Pertex Shield® combines wind and water protection with breathability.

Important features to look for

Zippers: Aside from the fabric, the zippers are probably the most important part of a waterproof jacket. They are used repeatedly and are an obvious kink in the defense of a waterproof jacket.

To keep water out, jackets use either a hydro-sealed zipper or a storm flap. A Hydro-Seal zipper is a rubber mechanism that closes when closed. A storm flap is a piece of fabric that is folded over the zipper. A hydro-sealed zipper is lighter and less bulky, but a storm flap tends to be more durable.

alt="A Hydro-Seal zipper">Horia Bogdan/ShutterstockA Hydro-Seal zipper closes when closed

Hood: The function of the hood is to protect the head and face from the elements. Some feature a wire peak that allows you to adjust the fit and shape of the hood to suit your needs. Others have larger hoods to accommodate a helmet for climbing or cycling.

If you choose a waterproof jacket, be sure to test how it feels with the hood on. The hood should fit snugly around your head without obstructing your vision, while also providing a protective shield for your eyes. It should also be easy to turn your head and not restrict your movements when pulling up.

Drawstrings/Velcro: Rain jackets typically have multiple drawstrings and Velcro to adjust the fit and seal openings. It is important that these are of good quality on the head and wrists to effectively keep water out. Velcro fasteners should be easily accessible and elastic pull cords should be placed intuitively.

Pockets: The number and positioning of your pockets depends on the intended use of your jacket. Hand pockets are usually standard, but when climbing it is important that the pockets fit over the harness. Large chest or internal pockets for storing maps and compass while hiking can be a really useful feature.

Seams: Taped seams are essential for a waterproof jacket. These are heat sealed seams that prevent water from seeping through the seams. Without taped seams, a rain jacket is never 100% waterproof.

Vents: Most jackets now come with underarm vent zippers (sometimes called pit zips) to make the jacket more breathable. Some jackets even have mesh inserts in the torso pockets that double as additional ventilation openings.

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