To you, the hiking, walking, cycling, or running enthusiast who isn't afraid to brave the rain and wind. This article will surely help you choose the perfect waterproof jacket to practice your favorite activity while staying dry. If you are looking for technical outdoor clothing, you will find a wide selection on our site.

Do you dream of staying dry, but you don't understand the difference between a waterproof jacket and a water-resistant jacket?

Indeed, a water-resistant fabric is a hermetic fabric that allows no breathability. That is why it is clearly not the recommended product when engaging in a sporting activity. Especially if it is intense and followed by sweating.
In contrast, for a jacket or a waterproof coat, the notion of waterproofing is different and much better suited for engaging in a sporting activity. By definition, a product is recognized as waterproof when it stops the passage of rain while maintaining a certain level of breathability.


Choosing the right waterproof jacket for my sporting activity.

Depending on the brands and models, there are different materials, different technologies, different cuts, and so on. To assist you in your choice of waterproof jacket, here is a selection of products that will accompany you throughout your sporting activities in the rain, including a selection of waterproof jackets for mountain hiking specially adapted to the mountains and changing conditions.

1. The characteristics of the perfect waterproof jacket for your trail, running, or cycling outings.

You can't predict the weather when heading out for long sessions of trail, running, or cycling. That is why it is important to always have a waterproof jacket in your trail vest or backpack to protect yourself from unexpected rain showers.
Your jacket must absolutely have 3 advantages :
  • Waterproofing to combat humidity and stay dry.
  • Breathable and lightweight fabric that helps regulate body temperature for overall comfort.
  • Windproof, because with this feature, the fabric will slow down the penetration of wind into the garment and thus minimize the feeling of cold.
The little extras that transform a classic waterproof jacket into the ideal waterproof jacket for outdoor sports :
  • Logo and/or reflective strips on the chest, back, or sleeves for improved visibility.
  • A hood with or without a tightening system to protect your head from the rain.
  • The cut and length of the waterproof jacket should allow for optimal comfort in movement and optimal protection of the body.
  • A closure with a waterproof zipper.
  • Interior and exterior pockets to optimize storage of necessary equipment.




2. Examples of technology used by brands to make your jacket waterproof.


The DRYVENT technology used by the brand The North Face has been designed to provide waterproof, windproof, and breathable properties to your jacket.
Primaloft Thermoplume is a material used by Millet that mimics the feel, aesthetics, and flexibility of down, while having high water-repellent properties that perform well in both wet and dry conditions.

3. The other essential factor to consider when purchasing your waterproof coat.

More and more of us are paying attention to our environmental impact and this also concerns our choices in terms of clothing purchases. Many brands today use technologies and materials made from recycled materials or eco-designed materials. Don't hesitate to check out our selection of outdoor products that are environmentally friendly for an even more responsible approach.
For example, the brand Patagonia designed its waterproof jacket Storm 10 Alpine Jacket with an ultralight outer material, 100% recycled ripstop nylon 3 layers compliant with the H2No standard. All while respecting a certified Fair Trade manufacturing process.
To give you another example, the brand Millet uses Teflon EcoElite technology for durable water repellency and effective water resistance. Made from 60% renewable resources and non-fluorinated raw materials. You can also check out our selection of Helly Hansen jackets for skiing that meet the technical requirements of winter activities.
You will find many other brands committed to the environment like Lafuma on our site : Click here


Conclusion

To find YOUR waterproof jacket, you just need to check that it has the characteristics that seem essential for the proper practice of your sporting activity (hood, pockets, reflective strip…). Above all, make sure it is indeed a waterproof coat and not a water-resistant coat, as the latter will not be suitable for engaging in intense physical activity. Finally, pay attention as much as possible to the environmental impact of the materials used.