Waterproof hiking jacket buying guide

The Types of Waterproof Hiking Jackets

There are several types of jackets suitable for hiking, each offering different levels of protection and comfort. Understanding these differences will help you choose the jacket best suited to your activity.

Waterproof and Breathable Walking Jackets: Why Breathability Matters

A waterproof jacket prevents water from getting in, but it must also be breathable to allow perspiration to escape. Breathability is essential because, during physical activity, your body generates heat and moisture. If the jacket doesn't let this moisture escape, you could end up soaked from your own sweat! Waterproof and breathable jackets typically use technical membranes (such as the well-known Gore-Tex membrane or other equivalents) that block rain while allowing water vapour to pass through. This keeps you dry from the outside and inside. In short, always opt for a jacket labelled as both waterproof and breathable—especially for active hikes—so you’re fully protected without sacrificing comfort.

Raincoat vs Water-Repellent Jacket: Understanding the Difference

Rain jackets and water-repellent jackets are often confused, but there is an important difference. A rain jacket is a truly waterproof garment: it has a waterproof membrane or coating, and often sealed seams, designed to withstand sustained rain. It will keep you dry even in heavy downpours.

In contrast, a water-repellent jacket is surface-treated (typically with a DWR – Durable Water Repellent finish) to cause water droplets to bead and roll off the fabric. With a water-repellent jacket, light rain will initially bead and run off the fabric without soaking through. However, in intense or prolonged rain, water will eventually penetrate, as the fabric lacks a waterproof membrane and sealed seams. A water-repellent jacket is therefore suitable for a light shower or drizzle, but not for a serious downpour.

Trekking Jacket vs Mountain Jacket: What Are the Key Differences?

Your needs will vary depending on whether you're trekking for several days or summiting peaks at high-altitude. Trekking jackets are typically designed for long-distance hiking: they often prioritise lightness and packability so they can be easily stowed in your backpack. Of course, they provide good waterproof protection, but they focus on reducing weight and bulk, even if that means slightly less durability. You’ll often find 2.5-layer jackets or thinner materials in this category—ideal for treks where every gram counts.

Mountain jackets (also known as alpine or mountaineering jackets), on the other hand, are built to withstand more extreme conditions. They are expected to offer total waterproof protection in heavy rain or snow, and high wind resistance and durability (against rocks or when carrying a heavy pack). These jackets are usually more robust, with tough 3-layer materials, reinforcements in key areas, and hoods designed to fit over a climbing helmet. They may be a bit heavier and stiffer, but that’s the trade-off for maximum protection at high altitude or in very harsh weather.

Softshell vs Hardshell: Two Different Ways to Stay Protected

The terms softshell and hardshell often come up when talking about technical mountain jackets. These are two distinct categories with different properties, each offering specific advantages. In short, a hardshell jacket is your classic waterproof—a ‘hard shell’ typically built with a waterproof membrane and a 2- or 3-layer construction. Its main role is to protect you from rain, snow, and wind. Hardshells are 100% waterproof, windproof, and often feature pit zips, though they can be less flexible or less breathable than a softshell. This is the kind of jacket you throw on as an outer layer in heavy weather conditions.

So what is a softshell? A softshell jacket—literally a ‘soft shell’—is another popular choice for hiking. It’s generally not fully waterproof (as it lacks a sealed membrane), but instead offers excellent breathability and flexibility. Softshells are made from water-repellent, wind-resistant fabric, often with a soft lining for added comfort and insulation in cool conditions. They perform best in dry or mildly damp weather, providing adequate protection from light showers or wind, while being far more breathable than a hardshell. However, they will eventually soak through in sustained rainfall. Many hikers value the comfort and versatility of softshells in moderate conditions. In practice, the best approach is often to combine the two: wear a softshell for comfort while it’s dry, and keep a hardshell in your pack to pull out when the heavy rain hits.

To learn more about the differences between these two types of jackets, feel free to check out our Softshell vs Hardshell guide, which explains when to choose one over the other.

Criteria for Choosing a Fully Waterproof Outdoor Jacket

There are several technical factors to consider when choosing the right waterproof hiking jacket. Here are the key aspects to look at to find the jacket that best suits your needs:

Waterproof Rating and the Schmerber Scale: Understanding 10000 mm, 20000 mm, 30,000 mm

A jacket’s waterproofness is measured using a rating known as the Schmerber, expressed in millimetres (mm). This rating indicates the height of a water column the fabric can withstand before water starts to penetrate. For example, a jacket rated at 10,000 Schmerber (or 10,000 mm) can resist the pressure of a 10-metre-high column of water before it leaks. In practical terms, 10,000 mm is considered the minimum level for a garment to be reliably waterproof under normal conditions. At 20,000 mm, you get a very high level of waterproofing, suitable for sustained, heavy rain or multi-day treks. Jackets with a 30,000 mm rating (or more) provide reinforced protection for extreme conditions—such as violent storms in high-altitude mountains or long hours of exposure to torrential rain.

Keep in mind that these figures are obtained under lab conditions on brand-new fabric. In real life, effectiveness will also depend on the jacket’s condition (cleanliness, water-repellent finish), and any added pressure on the fabric—such as backpack straps pressing down, which can reduce performance. Still, as a general guide, aim for at least 10,000 Schmerber for all-purpose hiking use. If you regularly hike in very wet regions or expect to face heavy downpours, a 20,000 Schmerber jacket will offer greater reliability. 30,000 Schmerber models are best suited for adventurers facing truly hostile environments (torrential rain, demanding expeditions).

Weight and Packability: The Importance of a Light and Compact Jacket

When hiking, every gram matters—especially on long-distance walks or multi-day treks. The weight of your jacket and how easily it can be packed are important considerations. A lightweight waterproof jacket will help keep your load manageable. Many brands now offer so-called ‘ultralight’ or trekking-specific jackets, made from thin but high-performance materials. These jackets can often be packed into their own pocket or a small pouch, taking up minimal space in your rucksack when not in use. This is ideal for hikers who want low-profile gear in fair weather that’s ready to go at the first sign of rain.

That said, an ultra-light jacket is usually a bit less durable than a heavier one. The fabric is thinner and may wear more quickly if snagged or exposed to abrasion (e.g., rocks or branches). So it’s important to take care of it and understand that there’s a trade-off between weight and durability. For summer long-distance hiking, prioritise lightweight options without hesitation. On the other hand, if you're heading into tougher conditions or regularly carrying a heavy pack, a slightly thicker (and therefore heavier) jacket might last longer. It’s up to you to find the right balance for your needs.

Hood and Wind Protection

One small detail that makes a big difference: the jacket’s hood. A good waterproof hiking jacket should come with an effective hood, as this is what protects your head and face from rain and wind. Make sure the hood is properly protective, and ideally adjustable (using drawcords or Velcro) to fit the shape of your head—or to fit over a helmet if you’re mountaineering or mountain biking. Some hoods include a built-in stiff peak to help keep rain off your face. Others are stowable (they roll into the collar), giving you more flexibility when the weather’s fine. What matters is that once tightened, you should be able to turn your head without losing visibility, and the hood should stay in place even in strong wind.

Speaking of wind, make sure your jacket also provides good wind protection. Most waterproof jackets are naturally windproof thanks to their membrane, but features like a high, snug-fitting collar, adjustable cuffs, and a hem drawcord improve defence against cold draughts. In windy mountain conditions, a hood and tall collar can make a real difference in keeping warm. Look out for adjustable tabs on the sleeves and drawcords at the waist or hips to prevent wind from entering. A good hiking jacket should protect you from both rain and wind—often the two go hand in hand in bad weather.

Gore-Tex Technology: Benefits and Alternatives

The name Gore-Tex is almost synonymous with breathable waterproof jackets, as this technology has had a major impact on the technical clothing market. Jackets featuring the Gore-Tex membrane generally offer excellent waterproof and breathable performance, combined with good durability. The advantages of Gore-Tex include its ability to remain waterproof over time (with proper care), its efficient breathability to prevent sweat build-up, and its versatility (several variants exist: Gore-Tex Paclite for lightness, Gore-Tex Active for high-intensity activity, Gore-Tex Pro for extreme conditions, etc.). Choosing a Gore-Tex jacket is, in many ways, opting for a reliable option, as the membrane’s reputation in the outdoor world is well established.

Other Waterproof Membranes

That said, Gore-Tex is not the only technology on the market. Many brands have developed their own waterproof membranes that offer comparable performance. For example, Dryedge (by Millet), Pertex Shield (by Lafuma), Transtex Rib (by Adidas), Derminax NX (by Ortovox), Omni-Tech (by Columbia), and so on. These alternative membranes can offer specific advantages: some focus on enhanced breathability, others on flexibility for added comfort, or on eco-friendliness by avoiding certain chemical treatments. In practice, don’t focus solely on the membrane’s name—check its technical specifications (waterproof and breathability ratings) and, if possible, read user reviews. Gore-Tex remains an excellent choice, but many high-quality waterproof jackets without Gore-Tex are available and may suit your needs just as well.

Care Tips to Extend the Lifespan of a Waterproof Hiking Jacket

A waterproof hiking jacket is an investment, so it’s important to take proper care of it to maintain its performance for as long as possible. Here are some care tips for your jacket:

• Read the label: Always start by checking the manufacturer’s recommendations (usually on the inside label). These will tell you whether the jacket can be machine washed and at what temperature, or if hand washing is preferable. Following these guidelines is the best way to avoid damaging the membrane or fabric.
• Proper washing: Most waterproof jackets can be machine washed at 30°C or 40°C on a gentle cycle. Use a mild liquid detergent or one specifically designed for technical fabrics. Avoid fabric softener at all costs! Softeners clog the membrane and reduce breathability. Ideally, run a double rinse cycle to remove all detergent residue. You can also use special detergents for waterproof garments that clean without affecting the water-repellent finish.
• Drying and reactivating the water repellence: After washing, let the jacket air dry on a hanger. Some manufacturers allow tumble drying on a low heat setting or a light touch with an iron (using a cloth in between) to reactivate the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish. Gentle heat can indeed restore the water-repellent properties of the outer fabric. Check the care instructions and, if permitted, don’t hesitate to do so — a good DWR finish causes water to bead and prevents the outer layer from becoming saturated.
• Reproofing: Over time and after several washes, the original water repellence naturally fades. Water no longer beads up and the outer fabric starts to absorb moisture (even if the membrane underneath still blocks water, a soaked outer layer makes the jacket heavier and less breathable). To fix this, apply a reproofing treatment. There are sprays or wash-in products (such as Nikwax, Granger’s, etc.) that can restore your jacket’s water-repellent coating. Generally, this doesn’t need to be done too frequently, but if you notice water is no longer beading, it’s time to reproof.
• Storage: Store your jacket in a dry place, away from moisture, when not in use. Avoid leaving it scrunched up at the bottom of your rucksack for weeks. Ideally, hang it up or fold it loosely, without compressing it too much, to preserve the membranes and coatings.
• Repairs: If your jacket gets a small tear or puncture (a sharp branch, a fall — it happens), repair it promptly to prevent the damage from worsening. There are special self-adhesive patches for technical jackets that work well on Gore-Tex and similar membranes (e.g. Tenacious Tape). A small, well-done repair can extend your jacket’s lifespan and maintain its waterproof performance.

By following these tips, your waterproof jacket will stay effective for many hikes to come. A well-maintained jacket will protect you from rain and wind just as well as it did on day one!