What to consider when buying a waterproof?

Walking the hills in the UK, will undoubtedly mean one day, a wet weather walk. Choosing the right gear will make a huge difference. Here’s ROC Outdoors’ guide on what to look out for to help make the right choice.

What is a waterproof jacket for?

At ROC Outdoors, we recommend just taking time to think about these few things before you start looking for a new waterproof:

· Where am I going and what weather might I experience?

· What makes me feel comfortable and what am I carrying?

· What matters most to me, level of waterproofness, breathability, comfort, style, cost.

In simple terms a good waterproof will keep you dry of course. But – it should do more than that. A good waterproof jacket also needs to be breathable, this will allow sweat vapour to escape meaning that you will stay dry from the inside. This will enable you to regulate your temperature and stay comfortable throughout your adventure, but remember, you may need to pack it away to carry it!

Waterproofs for the right activity

Waterproof jackets are usually designed with a particular activity in mind. Some are made for high-intensity activities like running or cycling so therefore breathability would be their main feature. Others will balance durability, waterproofness and breathability, and would be for sports such as mountaineering, walking or ski touring. Some activities require hardwearing waterproof fabrics that may feel stiffer on the body but will stand up to the demands of the mountains, such as abrasive rocks or carrying a heavy rucksack.

Most people, however, are usually after a waterproof jacket that provides everyday protection and comfort. You don’t necessarily need to choose the most expensive, but knowing key features will help you choose the right jacket for you.  The selection of these jackets is much wider, covering a range of brands, prices, fits and colours, with some lighter in weight and others stronger depending on your preference, and of course - budget.

How waterproof works

Waterproof fabrics have different constructions, simple terms “layers”. Waterproof jackets are often 2-layer, 2.5-layer or 3-layer.

2-layer

A 2-layer waterproof is the most basic construction, featuring an outer “face” fabric with a waterproof membrane bonded to it. An additional lining is usually added to protect this fragile inner layer, which is usually made from nylon mesh, but not bonded to the waterproofing itself. Not many technical waterproofs will have a 2-layer construction.

2.5-layer

As in 2-layer jackets, 2.5-layer waterproofs feature an outer fabric bonded to a waterproof membrane. But, instead of a mesh layer to protect the waterproofing, a coating or print is applied to it, which is far better at protecting the waterproof layer and offers extra weather protection, too. These jackets are often lighter and more packable than 3-layer construction, but aren’t as durable and are less suited to mountain environments, so choose one of these if you’re after an everyday, packable waterproof to wear on the trails and keep in your pack for if the weather turns.

3-layer

In a 3-layer construction, the waterproof technology is sandwiched between face fabric and an inner fabric, usually woven or knitted. These jackets can be heavy and are less packable than 2.5-layer jackets, but are extra durable and suited to mountain conditions. If you’re looking for one waterproof jacket to do everything, go for a 3-layer.

Fabrics, waterproof vs breathable

Getting the right levels of waterproofness and breathability will make sure you stay comfortable. Waterproof fabrics are resistant to water penetration. This is typically done using a membrane or a coating that act as a barrier, preventing moisture from permeating the fabric, keeping you dry and comfortable.

Breathable fabrics allow sweat in the form of water vapour to escape from the inside of the fabric to the outside.

Whilst it is common for a fabric to be waterproof and breathable, there are different variations so some fabrics may prioritise certain properties over others. Some fabrics may be more waterproof and some fabrics may be more breathable to cater for the kind of activity that you are trying to do.

Gore-Tex®?

GORE-TEX® is one of the best-known waterproof membrane technologies, and is the choice of many brands thanks to its durability and reliability. However, some brands are so confident in alternatives that they choose not to use GORE-TEX® at all, whilst others choose to use it in some items and use their own membranes in others. Other waterproof fabrics you might come across include DryVent, Pertex Shield, or e-Vent for example. We recommend considering the other features of the jackets first if you're choosing between a GORE-TEX® jacket and a non-GORE-TEX® one, then consider whether the type of technology will make a difference to your adventures.

How is waterproof-ness and breathability rated?

In very basic terms, the higher the rating the better it is for the job in hand.

Waterproof ratings and breathability ratings measure the level of waterproofing and breathability of a fabric used on a product. The higher the waterproof rating, the more waterproof the material will be. Likewise, the higher the breathability rating, the more the fabric will release moisture and vapour, which allows the body to regulate temperature and minimise sweating.

Waterproofness Ratings:

• 5,000mm: This is the minimum rating for a jacket to be called rainproof, however, whilst water resistant, it won’t stand up to much more than a very light rain shower or drizzle.

• 10,000mm – 15,000mm: A jacket in this range will withstand most downpours as well as heavy snow, but will eventually soak through over time if subjected to pressure and heavy, sustained rain.

• 20,000mm and up: This is the rating you should look for if you plan to be out all day, in all conditions, whilst carrying a heavy load.

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Breathability Ratings:

• 5,000 – 10,000g/m²: This level of breathability is fine for urban travel or camping in the rain, but will get a bit clammy during high-intensity walking or climbing.

• 10,000 – 15,000g/m²: Jackets in this range are suited to more adventurous travel or low-level walking but running or walks with tough uphill ascents might prove too much.

• 15,000 – 20,000g/m² & above: An extended trip to the hills, trekking in warm climates or otherwise working hard and perspiring heavily will require a jacket this breathable.

What other features should I consider?

A comfortable fit

How a jacket should fit is entirely subjective and down to personal preference. You should choose the one you are comfortable wearing. Some like a jacket long enough to cover the waistband, whereas others prefer it short and tailored. However, if you’re buying a jacket for a specific activity, there are a few things to consider when trying on. With climbing, for example, think about the height and positioning of pockets, these need to be clear of your harness, you still also need to see your feet to check your footing. Or if you want it for running or cycling, is it tailored enough to sit close to the body and reduce drag?

More general considerations include: do the sleeves cover your wrists as you move your arms around? Is the material too tight across the shoulders and underarms? Remember, you may wear the jacket in a range of temperatures, so think carefully about the number of layers underneath and choose the fit accordingly.

Taped Seams

Taped seams involve using a heat application of thin waterproof tape to cover the tiny holes made by the needle in the sewing process so they don’t leak. No matter how waterproof or breathable the fabric on your jacket, without adequate seam sealing you’ll end up getting wet.

Zips, hydro seals and storm baffles

To keep water out, some jackets use what is called a hydro-seal zip: a rubber mechanism that binds shut when closed. Others use a storm baffle, which is a piece of material that folds over the zip. Both methods are effective; a hydro-seal zip is lighter and less bulky, while a storm baffle tends to be more durable.

Some jackets also have pit-zips, which follow the underarms and can be opened if you get too hot. All jackets should be breathable, but this addition is great for comfort if you know you are prone to overheating.

The hood, quite essential

A hood’s function is simple: protect your head and face from the elements. A well-designed hood can make even the heaviest rainstorm feel like a light shower.

Some hoods feature a wire peak, which enables you to ‘customise’ the fit and shape of your hood. For scrambles and climbs, you may want a jacket with a larger hood to accommodate a helmet.

When putting the hood up, make want to ensure it firmly fastens around your head and face without obstructing your vision; that the peak forms a protective shield for your eyes; and that it is easy to turn your head without limiting your movements.

Pull cords and Velcro

Waterproof jackets should have good quality draw cord or Velcro seals at the head and wrists, to effectively keep water out. Velcro tabs should be easily accessed and sealed, and elastic pull-cords should be intuitively placed.

In summary

At ROC Outdoors we recommend doing your research and definitely recommend trying your jacket on before you buy. Don’t underestimate the weather and also the importance of pockets! High cost doesn’t always mean the best, but good brands that you know and trust are generally a good starting point.