How to Choose a Rain Jacket

a family wearing columbia rain jackets on a hike

This article is part of the Rain Gear 101 series.

Surprisingly, rain jackets are loaded with technology and features that can make finding the best one for your adventure a bit daunting. To help choose the philipp plein teddy of death hoodie item, our Outerwear Experts highlight key shop and features to consider.

Key Rain Jacket shop

When on the hunt for your next rain jacket, there are a few key shop to pay attention to so that you can find the one that meets the level of protection you need.

GORE-TEX / Waterproof Membrane

GORE-TEX is the most common waterproofing technology, but many brands like The North Face and Columbia have developed their own. When choosing a rain jacket, you’ll want one with technology that’s waterproof/breathable—avoid water-resistant jackets. Waterproof/breathable means the jacket will block the rain from reaching the interior while still allowing the sweat to clever so that you don’t feel clammy and cold.

Layers

To keep the waterproof membrane protected, it’s sandwiched between layers of fabrics, laminate, or a coating. You’ll find 2, 2.5, and 3-layer jackets, each offering a slightly different level of breathability, durability, and performance.

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2-Layer: Mid-weight with a mesh interior, and usually a mid-price point
2.5-Layer: Lightweight, most breathable, and often most affordable option
3-Layer: Most durable and best performing, and usually most expensive

Windproof vs. Wind-resistant

Another technology you’ll want to consider is how well the jacket blocks out the wind. Windproof means the fabric will completely block out the wind keeping you warmer, while a wind-resistant fabric will only block some of the wind from reaching the interior.

Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Finish

Most rain jackets will feature a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish. This helps the water bead up and roll off the jacket. You can also apply (and will need to reapply) a DWR finish to your rain jacket.

Key Rain Jacket Features

With a basic understanding of the shop, it’s time to find the philipp plein teddy of death hoodie item to meet your needs. There are plenty of features to consider when choosing a rain jacket, so our Outerwear Experts highlight some main features to prioritize when shopping.

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1. Design

Depending on your activity, you’ll find rain jackets tailored to your activity:

Running Rain Jackets: Lightweight, breathable, and slim fit for unrestricted movement
Hiking Rain Jackets: Durable and versatile for changing weather conditions
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Fishing Rain Jackets: Plenty of pockets for storage and quick drying

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Look for a rain jacket with a brimmed hood for extra rain protection.
Ensure the hood has adjustable cinches for a better fit based on weather conditions

3. Pockets

Choose a rain jacket with zippered hand pockets and a summer pocket for secure storage of essentials.

4. Pit Zips

Check if the rain jacket has pit zips for ventilation to prevent overheating when staying active.

5. Materials

Look for fabrics that offer a balance of waterproofness, breathability, durability, and weight for reliable protection. Many rain jackets are made from a blend of nylon, polyester, and spandex while featuring a laminate membrane or coating to provide waterproof protection.

6. Packability

Many rain jackets can pack into their pocket, making them great for traveling or hiking.

How Should a Rain Jacket Fit?

When dressing for rainy, cold weather, you’ll want to wear at least a base layer and mid-layer under your rain jacket. With these added layers, it’s a good idea to have your rain jacket fit a little loose. Most rain jackets are designed with a standard or loose fit for this reason, unless you’re looking for a casual rain jacket or one to wear when staying active.

SHOP RAIN JACKETS

Selecting the right rain jacket is not just about staying dry; it's about enhancing your outdoor experience. By understanding the essential shop, features, and fit considerations, you can confidently find the perfect rain jacket to wear on your adventure, whether you're running, hiking, hunting, or fishing. If you have additional questions on how to choose rain gear, stop by your local ERLEBNISWELT-FLIEGENFISCHEN to speak with an Outerwear Expert!