Waterproof clothing is at the core of outdoor adventures, yet designing clothing to withstand rain, sweat and other moisture without restricting body drainage can be difficult.

Designers use layers bonded with durable water repellents (DWR), or loosely covered by protective coatings like Gore-Tex to form layers that provide optimal insulation against external moisture intrusion. The various construction types may be referred to as 2, 2.5, or 3-layer membranes.

Breathable

No matter the temperature or conditions outside, high-performance outdoor apparel should help to keep you warm and comfortable. To do this, it requires a wicking base layer, breathable mid layers to trap still air next to the skin for thermal insulation purposes, and an outer waterproof shell layer to shield from rain, snow, or wind.

Modern waterproof breathable fabrics such as Gore-Tex, eVent, and Polartec Neoshell provide both insulation and breathability – allowing your body to release excess moisture vapor without letting in droplets of liquid moisture – helping keep you comfortable even during vigorous activity.

Fabrics designed with durable water repellent (DWR) treatments or abrasion resistance finishes may wear off over time and heavy use, so some garments have their seams sealed using hot-melt film or weld tape in order to prevent leaks and maintain waterproof ratings. Seam sealing helps prevent this issue.

Durable

Waterproof fabrics and membranes form the core of high-performance outdoor gear. These thin semi-permeable layers create barriers impenetrable by moisture from outside while permitting sweat vapor to escape, helping maintain an ideal body temperature during high-intensity activities.

Outerwear fabrics are usually treated with Durable Water Repellent or DWR to help prevent saturation and loss of breathability, helping water roll off rather than bead up onto fabric surfaces. Unfortunately, however, this coating can wear off due to abrasion, dirt accumulation and body oils; to restore waterproof protection periodically reapply DWR treatment will restore waterproof protection of your gear.

DWRs were traditionally made using per- and polyfluorinated chemicals – often called forever chemicals – linked to health concerns like cancer that don’t easily break down. Outdoor brands eventually identified more eco-friendly alternatives that still provided durable waterproofing – one such being Patagonia’s Keb Eco-Shell.

Versatile

An efficient waterproof jacket can offer versatile weather protection in light rain and snowy conditions, including DWR treatment and taped seams. Plus, an insulated option may also add further weatherproofing benefits!

Outdoor gear manufacturers increasingly employ advanced membranes in their products to deliver maximum comfort and performance. Gore-tex’s eVent DVAlpine fabric, featured on some jacket and trouser models from this outdoor manufacturer, features microscopic pores too small for water droplets to pass through but large enough for sweat vapor molecules to escape.

Silicone or rubber coatings offer complete waterproof protection from water and snow but are unsuited for active wear due to preventing moisture vapor escaping during movement. Furthermore, some of these fabrics contain hazardous perfluorinated substances (PFASs) which have become phased-out by most outdoor brands due to environmental concerns.

Affordable

Waterproof jackets provide various levels of protection from rain, from lightweight windbreakers and softshells to more substantial 3-layer shells. The best waterproof jackets should feature a breathable membrane which allows water vapor to escape while simultaneously blocking liquid water entry; furthermore, their fabric should also be tough enough to withstand abrasions and punctures.

Outdoor brands like Patagonia and REI are increasing their focus on sustainability by using recycled fabrics and PFC-free DWR finishes as alternatives to harmful chemicals that harm the environment. Patagonia encourages customers to look out for these products.

The Outdoor Research Foray strikes the perfect balance between classic looks, Gore-Tex Paclite protection, and lightweight build. Easily packable into its own pocket or tucked into a pack strap and equipped with pit zip access for optimal convenience – not to mention its reversible hood that allows it to function as a poncho under extreme conditions! Perfect for everyday wear as well as climbing, hiking and backpacking adventures alike.