Gore-Tex, eVent and other membrane jackets are popular choices among outdoor enthusiasts; however, they tend to get you wet more from sweat than rain, which can be frustrating.

Physical ventilation is one effective solution to this issue; consider purchasing jackets and pants with underarm zippers so you can open up when sweating excessively. In addition, 2.5-layer jackets that contain waterproof regions may also be beneficial.

Waterproof & Breathable

Breathable fabrics keep your inner layer dry during hard physical exertion, by blocking precipitation from seeping in while permitting perspiration vapor molecules to escape from your body.

Gore-Tex, eVent or Fjallraven Eco-Shell membranes are essential components of most waterproof breathable jackets and pants. Made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or polyester (PU), their pores allow perspiration vapors to escape while still permitting water droplets through.

Membranes are then attached to face fabrics treated with Durable Water Repellent (DWR), making the surface resistant to moisture while repelling vapour vapor. While some membranes, like Gore’s eVent, are fully taped, some only critical areas require taping such as in high exposure areas; 2-Layer gear features face fabric adhered directly to waterproof/breathable membrane without hanging liners and is less expensive than 3-Layer gear.

Warmth & Coolness

Layering can help you maximize comfort based on weather conditions, activity level and body temperature. More insulation might be required in cold conditions; less may suffice in warmer environments.

Base layers that wick away moisture from your skin to keep you comfortable include lightweight polyester long underwear tops and bottoms, wool or synthetic midweight jackets and fleece pants.

Windproof and waterproof shells provide essential protection from rain, snow and high winds during activities such as hiking, camping and kayaking.

Find garments with water-repellant finishes to keep rain and snow at bay, and consider fabrics with breathability ratings (measured using ASTM D737 tests): the higher their number is, the more breathable is your garment.

Comfort

Clothing designed to regulate body temperature, allow sweat to evaporate quickly and reduce heat and moisture build-up on the skin is key for comfort. Fabrics with moisture-wicking properties help remove sweat quickly while stretch fabrics provide flexibility without restricting movement or creating uncomfortable chafing points.

Breathability can help to prevent moisture build-up and the degradation of thermal insulation. Many waterproof fabrics have been treated with durable water repellent (DWR), which makes rain bead and run off of garments; historically this was achieved using chemicals called fluorocarbons; however these are now being phased out for more environmentally friendly and less toxic alternatives.

As people become more conscious of the mental health benefits associated with staying active, they seek ways to ensure comfortable outdoor excursions. Features like pocket space and zippers help carry essentials like food, maps and phones easily – as have products which emphasize sustainability at their core business models. Consumers increasingly prioritize brands that put this aspect of business at their forefront.