Waterproof ratings and breathability go hand-in-hand to help you select appropriate gear for any given weather conditions. In this article, we will explain how to assess these features to find your ideal rain jacket.

Formerly, many outdoor brands relied on per- or polyfluorinated chemicals (PFASs) to waterproof their gear. Unfortunately, these “forever chemicals” have been linked to health concerns and do not decompose easily.

Waterproofness

No matter if it is spring showers, winter storms, or backpacking into remote wilderness, having waterproof clothing that fits can make all the difference between an enjoyable or miserable outdoor adventure experience. Knowing the differences between waterproofness and breathability can help you select gear suitable for your outdoor pursuits.

Hardshell gear designed specifically for hiking and other general outdoor use often features fabrics with superior water repellency properties such as ISOFLEX and the technologies from Columbia or Gore-Tex – among many others.

These materials provide good moisture protection, but will eventually wick through over time. Many fabrics also require regular reapplication of durable water repellent (DWR) finish for the best performance; DWR coatings may contain PFCs which pose environmental threats and leak into world water supplies when washed.

Breathability

Breathability refers to the ability of fabric to allow moisture vapor and body heat to escape, enabling sweat to dissipate more quickly during activities like snowsports and hiking, keeping clothing and skin dry during intense physical exertion.

Breathability can be achieved in different ways than waterproofness; traditional waterproofing techniques like rubber and waxed cotton offer limited breathable qualities, making them suitable for rainboots or jackets where breathability may not be as paramount.

Advanced fabrics utilize membranes and treatments that combine waterproofness and breathability into one fabric – such as GORE-TEX or eVent technologies – in order to achieve both waterproofness and breathability. Selecting the ideal membrane will depend on your activity type, weather conditions and personal preferences – the optimal option will allow you to fully embrace outdoor adventure without having to adjust plans due to rain or overheating; waterproof/breathable ratings provide essential guidance in finding that balance of protection and comfort.

Durability

An ordinary waterproof garment will eventually leak under pressure of sufficient amounts of water and pressure, so if you plan to explore the backcountry or descend a mountain for extended periods, make sure your outerwear can withstand these conditions.

Manufacturers use seam sealing/taping techniques to waterproof fabric, such as jackets and pants, using either heat- or waterproof tape, to close all of the tiny holes created during construction. Jackets and pants may be fully or critically taped – with critical areas including hood, shoulders, and neck being given priority for taping.

Waterproof fabrics like Gore-Tex and eVent have microporous membranes with microscopic pores too small for water droplets to penetrate while still allowing sweat vapor molecules to escape, providing adventurers with superior protection, comfort, and versatility when exploring outdoor terrain. These cutting edge technologies have revolutionized outdoor clothing offerings while providing adventurers with unparalleled protection, comfort and versatility in outdoor clothing solutions.

Weight

Outdoor enthusiasts engage in various outdoor activities to challenge themselves and reconnect with nature. Many adventures involve rugged terrain or adverse weather conditions that require protective apparel, which should include waterproof ratings and breathability ratings for optimal selection.

Montbell’s Versalite rain jacket is an excellent example. Constructed of Gore-Tex material and featuring pit zips and hand pockets, its large oversized hood can fit over most helmets while being corded for adjustability. Plus it folds away neatly into its own pocket for easy transport and storage!

Some brands may boast of their waterproof rating, with 3 psi being an appropriate minimum for most front country hiking needs. When backpacking and alpine hiking, something more robust to withstand the pelting winds and driving rain is necessary – many avid hikers therefore carry two separate shell layers – waterproof gear for rainy conditions as well as breathable wind gear for cool temperatures or periods of high exertion.