Guide to choosing a waterproof jacket in 2025
-
If you click a link with an * and buy from a company’s website, I may receive a small payment. This helps fund the Outdoor Girl site and keeps it free to use with no annoying pop up adverts.
But there are a couple of crucial things you need to know about this:
It never impacts my content or recommendations – if I include something, I genuinely think will be helpful
There is no extra cost to you when buying via one of these links
For a more detailed explanation, see my policy on affiliate links, including Amazon Associate links.
For transparency, you can also find duplicate links below that don’t help fund the Outdoor Girl website.
Rainy showers in the Peak District
The other week, I was out walking in the Peak District and learned exactly what happens during an epic fail of your waterproof kit. I’d put my waterproof jacket on in plenty of time, but still ended up cold, shivery, and soaked through after a downpour. When I checked an hour later, my base layers were saturated, meaning my waterproof jacket had failed to do its job.
A waterproof jacket is an important piece of kit - you can be at real risk of hypothermia if it fails, especially in remote areas.
Because the jacket was only 5 years old, and hadn’t been cheap, I sent it back to the manufacturer for investigation. It turns out the waterproofing had failed due to delamination around the hood and shoulders. But the real shock was being told the jacket was at the end of its expected lifespan (3-5 years). Nobody had shared that little snippet of information when I was buying.
Waterproof jackets are expensive items to replace, especially every 3-5 years. There’s also been a big shift in technology over recent years, with outdoor brands stopping (or transitioning away) from PFAS forever chemicals. This alters the ongoing care needed to ensure longevity and performance. So, honestly, I think it’s more confusing than ever to work out what to buy.
So, I decided to put this guide together, figuring it will be helpful for anyone else in the market for a new jacket too. It includes how to choose a new jacket, what features to look for, waterproof and breathability ratings, and aftercare tips to keep it performing over the years.
What will you use a waterproof jacket for?
There’s lots of choice when it comes to waterproof jackets, all varying in things like weight, durability, packability, breathability, and price. Jackets are also designed with different activities in mind, so the first question to ask yourself is: what do I want to use a waterproof jacket for?
There’s no point buying a technical mountaineering jacket if you only want something for short, low-level walks. It will be over-spec’d, and overpriced, for the job. On the other hand, a summer emergency shell won’t protect you in the high mountains during winter.
Think about:
Where you’re going and what activities you’ll be doing (eg. walking, running, cycling, or climbing)
The time of year you’ll be using the jacket (how cold, wet, or windy it’s likely to be)
The amount of effort you’ll be exerting (steady walking, hard running, or carrying a heavy pack)
How much regular maintenance you’re willing to put in (eg. reproofing)
Examples of activity specific jackets
Walking and hiking:
Keeps out heavy rain, stays breathable on climbs, and handles abrasion from a rucksack.Trail running and cycling:
Lightweight, highly breathable, and packable - a jacket that won’t slow you down.Summer emergencies:
Lightweight and compact, designed to stay in your pack unless it starts raining.Mountaineering and climbing:
Extra tough, storm-ready, with helmet compatible hoods and features like two-way zips for wearing with a harness.
The different features found in waterproof jackets
The features you’ll need in a waterproof jacket will depend on the type of activity you’re doing and where you plan to go. Here are a few things to think about:
1. Fit and cut
Every brand and style will fit differently but finding a jacket that suits your body shape and planned activity will make all the difference in comfort and performance:
Layering:
If you plan to wear mid-layers or fleeces underneath, think about sizing up or choosing a slightly looser cut.Activity-specific fit:
For high intensity activities like trail running, a lightweight jacket with a slimmer cut will improve breathability without restricting movement.Full range of movement:
Make sure the jacket allows a full range of motion for the activity you’ll be doing. Check whether it rides up when you lift your arms.
Always try jackets on to make sure they’re comfortable - and with the layers you’ll be wearing in the hills to check it still fits.
2. Hood
Hoods are important! There’s no point in having a hood if it’s a poor fit that blows off in the wind. Here’s what to look for:
Helmet compatibility:
If you’re biking or climbing, make sure it fits over your helmet.Adjustability:
Check for top cords that grip the head, front cords to close the face opening, and a volume adjuster at the back.Peak/visor:
This will help to keep rain and snow out of your eyes.Wind resistance:
Make sure the hood won’t lift in strong wind.Mobility:
The hood should move naturally with your head as you look left and right, and be easy to adjust on the go.
3. Pockets
Think about the things you’ll be carrying, and what you’ll need to have at hand:
Chest pockets:
These are useful for phones, maps, or snacks - but think about how dry they’ll be in high-intensity activity or very wet weather.Placement:
Make sure the pockets won’t be blocked when wearing a rucksack or climbing harness.
4. Venting
Good ventilation will help keep you dry from sweat and make the jacket more breathable.
Pit zips:
Underarm zips allow airflow when you’re working hard. They can sometimes be awkward to use, especially when using with a rucksack, so look at where they are.Hem adjusters:
These keep drafts out in windy conditions.
5. Cuffs
Adjustable cuffs will help with ventilation and keep water out.
Velcro cuffs:
Can be adjusted and tightened over gloves to keep warmth in and water out, or opened for extra airflow.Elastic cuffs:
These are useful for light activity, but can trap sweat during high effort.
6. Waterproofing features
Check for features that will help prevent water from getting in:
Storm flaps:
An internal flap behind the main zip to block water if it seeps past the seal.Waterproof zips:
Helping to keep moisture out.Taped seams:
Seals over the stitching so water can’t penetrate.DWR coating:
Durable Water Repellent coating which makes water bead off the outer fabric. Without it, the fabric wets out and breathability is reduced.
7. Fabric and construction
Jackets are constructed in different ways, affecting the weight, breathability, and waterproofing:
2-layer:
A laminated or coated membrane giving an outer shell that’s fully waterproof and an inner lining. Jackets will be lightweight and a small pack size.2.5 layer:
A light coating or print added to the 2-layer for extra durability and softness.3-layer:
A membrane sandwiched between the outer fabric and inner lining for more comfort, durability and protection. It will also make the jacket heavier.
Thicker fabrics give better protection in winter, whereas lighter fabrics are ideal for summer or high-effort activities.
8. Sustainability and safety
Outdoor brands are increasingly aware of their impact on the environment, which is good news for consumers looking for more sustainable products:
Recycled materials:
Check if the jacket is made from recycled fabrics and whether it can be recycled at end of life.Longevity:
Check how long the jacket is expected to last (it may be less than you expect).Colour:
Bright jackets are easier to see in emergencies. Light coloured jackets will show the dirt quicker. Darker colours may blend into the environment.PFAS / PFC’s:
Some water-resistant coatings contain forever chemicals which can harm the environment and pose a risk to human health. Many brands now use PFAS-free alternatives (scroll down to learn more about these).
Layering, fabric technology, waterproofing, and breathability
Most of us are looking for a jacket that breathes to let out sweat, feels light to wear, and keeps us dry whatever the weather throws at us. But the truth is, the more waterproof a jacket is, the less breathable it will be - and vice versa. How you layer underneath also makes a difference.
This next section talks about layering, materials, waterproofing, and breathability to help you choose what’s important and where you might want to compromise.
Layering considerations
Some jackets are designed to be worn next to the skin but others need layering:
Insulating jackets:
Brands like Páramo are insulating, meaning you may not need a heavy mid-layer underneath. Technically, Páramo aren’t waterproof jackets but many outdoor enthusiasts swear by them.Standard waterproof jackets:
Most jackets will need both a base layer and a mid-layer for warmth, depending on conditions. It all comes down to personal preference - how cold it is, how sensitive you are to the cold, and the intensity of your activity.
Fabric technology
Different brands use different membranes and construction. There are too many to name, but here are some common ones you may come across:
Gore-Tex:
Durable, waterproof, and breathable. The newer Gore-Tex epe is a PFAS-free material.Proflex:
Rab’s 3-layer waterproof material with a high level of durability and protection.Other specialist membranes:
Montane Petrichor technology
Patagonia H2NO technology
The North Face Futurelight technology
Outdoor Research AscentShell technologyPáramo:
Uses water-resistant fabrics plus Nikwax hydrophobic treatment and has excellent breathability.
Understanding waterproofing
A jacket’s waterproofness is measured by hydrostatic head (HH) which is the height of a column of water that the fabric can withstand before leaking. The higher the rating, the more waterproof the jacket.
Light rain:
Around 1,000mm HH - light showers
Moderate rain:
Around 5,000mm HH - light to moderate rain
Heavy rain:
Around 10,000mm HH - good protection in wet conditions
Extreme conditions:
20,000mm+ HH - prolonged exposure and storms
The trade off is that higher HH ratings increase waterproofness but can reduce breathability, add weight, and reduce flexibility.
For general use, 10,000mm+ is a practical benchmark whereas 20,000mm+ is suited for extreme conditions.
Understanding breathability
Even light activity produces sweat. If moisture can’t escape, it collects inside your jacket, drawing heat away from your body and making you feel cold.
“Trapped inside your jacket, this moisture acts as a thermal conductor. It transfers your body heat nearly 25 times faster than dry clothing. This feels very uncomfortable, chilling, and in extreme environments, it can lead to hypothermia.“
Rab website
MVTR (Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate):
Measures how much water vapour can pass through the fabric per 24 hours (g/m²/24h). Figures can range from less than 10,000 MVTR to up to 40,000 MVTR (look for 20,000+ for active use).
High MVTR = more breathable
Low MVTR = low breathability
RET (Resistance to Evaporation):
A RET value under 6 is considered very good.
Lower RET = better breathability
Higher RET = lower breathability
What is PFAS, and why is it being phased out?
PFAS (also known as PFCs and fluorocarbons) are synthetic chemicals used to make fabrics waterproof and water repellent. They’re often called forever chemicals because they can take over 1,000 years to break down. First developed in the 1930s and widely used in clothing since the 1960s, PFAS chemicals help water bead on the surface of a jacket rather than soaking in.
It sounds great - but these chemicals can leach into water, soil, and food. They’ve also been found in humans. Long chain PFAS (C8), now banned globally, have been linked to serious health problems, including liver damage, cancers, and reproductive issues. Short chain PFAS (C6), once thought to be safer, are now considered harmful too.
Back in September 2024, residents near a chemical plant in the UK were advised to wash and peel homegrown vegetables after soil contamination from chemicals in the PFAS family. Read the full article in The Guardian
If you’re interested in learning more about PFAS chemicals, this website shows their concentration across Europe: Forever Pollution Project
PFAS chemicals in waterproof jackets
Many outdoor brands have already eliminated PFAS from their products. Others are working on plans to transition away from them.
That said, some brands still use PFAS in membranes because it’s thought to be more stable than the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings.
If avoiding these forever chemicals is important to you, check whether the jacket uses a PFAS-free membrane (or is membrane free), and whether the DWR coating is PFAS-free.
Waterproofing without PFAS chemicals
Many outdoor brands are developing PFAS-free alternatives for waterproof jackets.
PFAS-free DWR coatings:
These repel water, but are less effective at repelling oil and dirt. Jackets with this type of coating will need more frequent washing and reproofing to keep them performing well.PFAS-free membranes:
Gore-Tex epe is a new waterproof membrane developed without PFAS.Páramo:
Páramo products, used and loved by many outdoor enthusiasts, have always been PFAS-free.
PFAS-free jackets are available from the following brands:
Note: These are just a few I’ve come across, so do check other brands too.
Look for wording that says “no intended added PFAS”. That’s because PFAS chemicals are in everything already, so testing may still show signs of it in there.
For more information on PFAS in products and where to find PFAS-free options, see PFAS Free UK.
Looking after your waterproof jacket - why reproofing matters more than ever
Waterproof jackets used to rely on DWR coatings containing PFAS/PFCs which made water bead on the surface, kept the fabric dry, and helped maintain breathability.
With these chemicals being phased out, eco-friendly DWR alternatives have been developed. However, these are less durable and can wear off faster, making reproofing more important than ever.
Why washing and reproofing is necessary
Over time, the DWR coating on your jacket will wear down due to:
Abrasion:
Friction from rucksack straps, harnesses, or frequent use.Dirt and pollutants:
Oils, sweat, mud, or airborne contaminants.Heavy usage:
Frequent exposure to rain, washing, or harsh conditions.
When the DWR degrades, the jacket may wet out (water soaking into the outer fabric, even if it doesn’t leak through). This reduces breathability and causes moisture to build up inside, making you feel clammy or cold.
Signs your waterproof jacket needs reproofing
Eco-friendly DWR’s simply don’t last as long as the older PFAS/PFC coatings, so it’s important to check your jacket more often. Some brands say to wash after every ten uses. Others say every three to four months.
Here are a few things to look out for to help you decide when to wash and reproof:
Water no longer beads on the surface
Breathability is reduced and the jacket feels damp or sticky inside
Visible wear - loss of sheen or uneven water repellency
The outer fabric clings or sags when wet
If you’ve been getting muddy, or spent an extended period of time in the hills, always give your jacket a wash and reproof afterwards. It’s also worth doing it before going away on a long trip/into the mountains to ensure maximum performance.
Regular washing and reproofing will restore the DWR layer, meaning your jacket keeps its water resistance and breathability, and making it last longer too.
How to wash and reproof your waterproof jacket
1. Clean first
Always wash your jacket before applying a DWR coating. Normal detergents can strip away water repellency, so use specialist products like:
Nikwax Tech Wash and TX. Direct Wash-in >> See it at Amazon *
Grangers wash and reproofing twin pack >> See it at Amazon *
2. Reproof
Follow the instructions for reproofing. Heat will activate the DWR coating, so either tumble dry on a low heat, iron with a cool iron (and tea towel between the iron and jacket), or use a hair dryer.
Watch this video below from Outside to see the washing and reproofing process 👇
When to replace your waterproof jacket
Even the best jackets don’t last forever. Knowing when to replace yours will ensure you stay dry, safe, and comfortable in wet weather conditions.
Here are some a few signs to watch out for:
Delamination:
This is when the different layers of the jacket start to separate and means the jacket will stop performing.
Damage:
Extensive wear, large rips, and seam tape coming away will usually mean the jacket is beyond repair. Check first though as you can sometimes get specialist repairs from the manufacturer or places like Sheffield Clothing Repair.
Waterproofing failure:
If water soaks through, even after cleaning and reproofing, or the DWR no longer works, it’s time for a replacement.
Paying attention to these signs will help avoid you getting caught out in wet, cold conditions with a jacket that can’t protect you.
Regular maintenance can extend your jacket’s life - but eventually, it will need replacing (and, like me, you might find it’s sooner than you expect).
You may also be interested in reading:
Tips to make your outdoor gear last
What you can do to make outdoor adventure more sustainable
Mini bikepacking adventure, testing kit, and an overnight hotel
ENJOYED THIS POST? HERE’S HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT MORE CONTENT…
I’m an outdoor enthusiast, just like you, looking to read about fun and inspiring adventures. I write from my personal experience and ideally want to keep this website ad-free (who likes annoying pop-up ads getting in the way). But web hosting and creating new content costs money, and means a fair bit of unpaid work.
If you’ve been inspired, grabbed a GPX download, or found something helpful, you can support by buying me a cuppa via my Ko-Fi account. Thank you if you can 🫶
Get new adventures sent directly to your inbox. Emails usually go out every other week.
SIGN UP TO MY NEWSLETTER
Outdoor-Girl is run by Jacquie Budd, an outdoor adventure writer, and marketing content writer for brands that care about their impact on people and the planet.
What do the links with an * mean?
Links with an * by them are affiliated which means if you get a product via this link, a contribution may be made to the Outdoor Girl website, helping it stay free to use.
You shouldn’t notice any difference in the product or cost. Importantly, the content I write is NEVER impacted by these links. For more details, please read my policy on affiliate links, including Amazon Affiliate links.
As I believe transparency is important, I’m sharing the un-affiliated links too, but note this version does not help the Outdoor Girl website.
Unaffiliated web addresses for the * links in this blog post:
Nikwax Tech Wash and TX. Direct Wash-in twin pack
Grangers Eco Twin Pack - Performance Wash and Clothing Repel
