For many of us who love outdoor adventures, it’s rewarding to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor hobbies, but a sudden change in weather shouldn’t become a deterrent to that. That’s where a good lightweight waterproof jacket steps in.
It’s not just about staying dry; it’s about being able to continue your pursuits in comfort, no matter what Mother Nature decides to throw at you. The beauty of these jackets lies in their sleek design, light-as-a-feather composition, and resilient waterproofing, which makes them perfect for virtually any setting.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essential aspects of lightweight waterproof jackets. From defining their types and features to understanding materials, tips for purchasing, and how to choose the right jacket for different settings, we will cover it all. So, grab a cup of hot tea, and join me as I walk you through the world of lightweight waterproof jackets.
Different Types of Lightweight Waterproof Jackets
First things first: lightweight jackets come in various styles. Understanding what each of these styles are is what’s ultimately going to help you find the right one.
While they all offer the primary function of keeping you dry, each type of lightweight waterproof jacket has its own unique features and benefits. Your choice should ultimately cater to your specific needs, taking into consideration factors such as the climate, your planned activity, and your personal preference for style and comfort.
Let’s go over a couple of different types of lightweight waterproof jackets.
Shell Jackets
Shell jackets are the most basic and versatile type of lightweight waterproof jacket—making them an excellent place to start. These jackets are typically made with breathable fabrics to let out body heat, thus aiding in comfort during times of physical activity.
They tend to be minimalistic, focusing primarily on weather protection rather than insulation, making them perfect for layering according to the environmental conditions.
An example of a shell jacket is the Men’s JayBeez Waterproof Jacket.
Insulated Jackets
While shell jackets focus on protection, insulated jackets add an extra level of warmth. These jackets have an added insulation layer, typically made from down or synthetic materials, trapped between a waterproof outer shell and an inner lining. For anyone who enjoys outdoor activities in colder environments, an insulated waterproof jacket might be the perfect fit.
One insulated jacket with a water-resistant outer layer you could consider is the Men’s Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket.
3-in-1 Jackets
3-in-1 jackets, also known as ‘interactive’ or ‘system’ jackets, offer a great deal of flexibility. These jackets typically feature a removable insulation layer and an outer shell that can be worn separately or zipped together for combined waterproof and insulating protection. They’re perfect for someone who constantly engages in outdoor activities in varying weather conditions.
An example of a 3-in-1 jacket would be the Men’s or Women’s Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka.
Packable Rain Jackets
Packable rain jackets are an excellent option for those ‘just-in-case’ moments – lightweight, easily compressed, and stowed in a backpack, ready for unexpected showers. They might not offer the same level of all-day comfort and breathability as some of the aforementioned jackets, but they are perfect for those who need something light and compact.
An example of a packable rain jacket is the Men’s On Running Active Jacket.
Materials Used for Lightweight Waterproof Jackets
Going beyond the types of lightweight jackets, another way that different styles stand out is due to the materials used to make them.
Different materials have their own unique properties, and the right choice can often depend on the specific situation and personal preferences.
Let me go over a couple of common materials used for making lightweight waterproof jackets, as well as who makes each of these jackets.
Material | Description |
Gore-Tex (Gore-Tex) | Gore-Tex is the gold standard in waterproof materials. It’s a layering system that sandwiches a waterproof/breathable membrane between a rugged outer layer and a comfortable inner layer. It’s designed to repel rain while also allowing sweat vapor to escape, preventing the user from getting clammy during intense activities. |
HyVent (The North Face) | This multi-layer formula is used in many of The North Face’s jackets and is known for both its waterproof and breathable properties. |
H2No (Patagonia) | Patagonia’s proprietary waterproof fabric, H2No, is also a performance standard for waterproofing and breathability. I’m impressed by this material’s durability and how it stands up to even the harshest weather conditions while providing excellent breathability. |
Pertex Shield (Pertex) | Pertex Shield is a technically advanced fabric that includes a waterproof, breathable membrane. In my experience, Pertex Shield jackets are both lightweight and packable yet still sufficiently robust to handle variable weather conditions. |
eVent (eVent) | The eVent fabric stands out by using a unique “dry system” that expels moisture directly to the outside, unlike other materials that need the buildup of internal moisture before the breathability kicks in. |
Understanding Waterproofing Ratings for Lightweight Jackets
One thing to note about waterproof jackets is that they all adhere to something called waterproof ratings. Waterproof ratings refer to the amount of water, measured in millimeters (mm) that a fabric can withstand over a 24-hour period before it starts to leak. It’s a measure of the fabric’s resistance to water pressure.
For example, a jacket with a 5,000mm waterproof rating can resist about 5,000mm of rain in 24 hours before it starts to seep through.
Now, it is important to note that higher waterproof ratings don’t necessarily mean they’re better. A jacket with a 10,000mm rating, for instance, might not be twice as waterproof as one with a 5,000mm rating. Waterproofing needs largely depend on the conditions and activity at hand.
For most recreational outdoor activities, a rating between 5,000mm to 10,000mm offers sufficient protection. For sustained exposure to heavy rain and wet snow during activities like alpine climbing or mountaineering, jackets with ratings of 20,000mm or more are ideal.
Fully-Sealed or Fully-Taped Seams
Besides knowing about waterproof ratings, another key aspect of your jacket’s waterproofing is the seams. Water can sneak in through poorly designed or executed seams, zippers, or vents, regardless of how waterproof the fabric might be.
To avoid this, always look for jackets that offer ‘fully-sealed’ or ‘fully-taped’ seams. In addition, water-repellent treatments on the fabric’s exterior (known as Durable Water Repellent, or DWR) help water to bead up and roll off the fabric, preventing it from saturating and soaking through.
Features of a Good Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
Now that you know what lightweight jackets are made of, let’s talk about what separates a good one from just an okay one. In general, it all boils down to factors like:
- Breathability
- Waterproof ratings
- Durability
- Pocket space
- Hood
- Ventilation
- Packability
Let’s cover some of these features to give you a better idea of what to look for when purchasing one of these jackets.
Breathability
When you’re exerting energy during a hike or casting a fly rod, your body heats up, causing you to sweat. A good jacket needs to allow that moisture to escape; otherwise, you feel damp and uncomfortable. Jackets fitted with Gore-Tex or eVent fabrics really excel here due to their breathability capacities.
Waterproof Ratings
Waterproof ratings are important, too, and are measured by how much water a fabric can withstand per inch in a 24-hour period. Jackets with a minimum rating of 10,000mm are suitable for moderate to heavy rain, ensuring you remain dry and comfortable even in stormy circumstances.
Durability
A jacket may be waterproof and breathable, but if it falls apart after a few uses, it’s not going to be much use in the great outdoors. Jackets made with ripstop nylon or polyester are known for their durability and longevity.
A good jacket with strong durability is the Men’s Filson Tin Cloth Primaloft® Jacket. Made of waxed cotton fabric, it’s ideal for those who want a sturdy piece of clothing that stands up to the elements.
Pocket Space
It can be really handy to have pockets that are big enough to store essentials during your activities.
Hood
A good hood is critical when caught in heavy rain. The hood should be adjustable to snugly fit your head and ideally have a cap-style brim to keep water off your face. The Men’s Free Fly Headwind Jacket is an excellent example of a jacket with a solid hood.
Ventilation
Ventilation is essential for high-exertion activities. Jackets with pit zips or core vents may not seem important at first, but they allow for extra ventilation when needed without letting water in.
Packability
Packability matters significantly for backpackers, hikers, and anyone short on space. The jacket should be lightweight and pack down small. A highly packable yet lightweight jacket is the Women’s JayBeez Waterproof Jacket. Plus, it comes with waterproof AquaGuard fabric to keep the rain off.
Different Uses for Lightweight Waterproof Jackets
There are many different types of lightweight jackets, each designed for different settings. It’s important to keep what kind of setting you’ll be using it in at the top of your mind as you shop for one.
After all, the ideal jacket for meandering through urban sidewalks might not be the most suitable one for an exhilarating high-altitude trek or a peaceful fly-fishing trip. Therefore, it’s vital to align your jacket selection with the intended environment and activity.
Here are a couple of different uses for lightweight waterproof jackets:
- Urban Use: Style will likely factor heavily into your decision. In this case, your choice would be something more fashionable yet functional.
- Hiking and Backpacking Adventures: Durability, comfort, and breathability become paramount here. You’d need a jacket that can withstand rugged conditions, is lightweight for long treks, but also allows moisture from sweat to escape
- High-Altitude Mountaineering: High-altitude mountaineering demands a jacket capable of withstanding snow, extreme cold, and harsh winds. Let’s not forget the importance of durability when it comes to possibly brushing against rough rocks.
- Fly-Fishing Trips: Your priority is a waterproof jacket that’s breathable but also offers freedom of movement. You want a jacket that keeps you dry but doesn’t limit your casting ability.
Remember, the best jacket isn’t necessarily the most expensive, the trendiest, or the one with the most features. It’s the one that is best aligned with your activity, providing comfort and protection in your specific setting, whether it’s in the mountains, by the river, or through urban streets.
Tips for Buying a Good Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
When it comes to purchasing a good lightweight waterproof jacket, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Every outdoor aficionado has different needs based on a variety of aspects, like the climate you typically find yourself in or the type of activities you usually engage in.
So, how do you wind up choosing a good jacket?
I’ve put together a couple of tips to help you out.
Understand Your Needs
First and foremost, it is important to clarify what you truly need in a jacket. Pose questions to yourself like:
- What type of outdoor activities will I be using the jacket for?
- Will I be wearing it for high-exertion activities like hiking or running or more leisurely pursuits like bird-watching or fishing?
- How much rain do I anticipate dealing with?
Understanding your needs will help form a clearer picture of what to look for in your ideal jacket.
Considering the Climate and Environment
Take a good look at the climate and environments where you’ll be utilizing your jacket. For instance, when you are fly fishing in the lush, constantly drizzling corners of Scotland, you need a jacket with high waterproofing ratings.
But, if you’re on an autumn hike in the relatively dry landscapes of Utah, a simpler water-resistant pick like the Women’s JayBeez Waffle Hooded Jacket would suffice.
Selecting a Suitable Waterproof Rating
Making sense of waterproof ratings can feel like a science class at times, but it is a fundamental consideration while purchasing a jacket. If you anticipate heavy rainfall, a higher waterproof rating (15,000 mm+) is ideal. On the contrary, for light rain or brief showers, 5,000mm to 10,000mm should suffice.
Jacket Weight and Packability
As an outdoor lover, when you enjoy the feeling of being unencumbered, nothing can be more distracting than an overly heavy jacket. If you’re into long-distance running or hiking, your preference may be in jackets that are lightweight yet reliable in the face of the elements. Make sure to consider the weight and packability of your jacket according to the nature of your activity.
Checking Reviews and Doing Proper Research
Online reviews from verified purchasers can offer real-life insights into the product’s performance. Even within the same brand, the quality and features can vary across models, so don’t rely solely on brand reputation. Instead, take the time to check both professional and user reviews to get a complete understanding of the product.
Verifying the Size and Fit
First and foremost, the size and fit of the jacket are very personally dependent. I recommend trying on multiple sizes/styles before buying to ensure you have the perfect fit. An ill-fitting jacket can hinder your movement or make you uncomfortable on long day outs, so always keep in mind the activities you plan to carry out wearing the jacket.
Also, a good jacket should allow enough room for layering on colder days without feeling too loose or bulky.
Color and Style Preferences
Though the primary purpose of a rain jacket is functional, there’s no harm in looking good on the trail or during your fishing trip. You can opt for brighter colors because they are visible in low-light conditions and work for safety reasons.
However, if you’d like something that would go well with most of your wardrobe, muted colors or neutrals like black, gray, or navy could be your go-to options.
Layering Options
Depending on the climate where you’ll be traveling, you may wish to consider whether the jacket has ample space for layering underneath.
Caring For and Maintaining your Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
We’ve all been there. You’ve invested in a remarkable piece of outdoor gear, only for it to wear out faster than you’d hoped.
Well, I’m here to tell you that the longevity of your lightweight waterproof jacket greatly depends on how you care for it.
Let’s go over some guidelines for helping you maintain your new piece of outdoor gear.
Washing Guidelines
Dirt, sweat, body oils, and smoke can degrade the waterproof membrane and Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating over time, diminishing its effectiveness. To avoid this, gently wash your jacket regularly but not so often that it speeds up wear and tear. A good rule of thumb could be to wash it after ten to fourteen days of wear.
When you clean your jacket, use a basic, non-detergent soap that’s recommended by the jacket manufacturer, or use a specialist cleaning product like Nikwax Tech Wash, as normal detergents can leave a residue that hinders the DWR.
And remember, before tossing it in the machine, zip up all zippers and close any Velcro fastenings to prevent damage. Always follow the washing instructions mentioned on your jacket’s inner label.
Drying Guidelines
Post-wash, employ a no-tumble-drying routine unless the care instructions on your jacket recommend otherwise. High heat can melt the seams and coatings. Instead, line or hang dry your jacket away from direct heat sources. Once it is nearly dry, a quick tumble dry on a low setting for about ten minutes does a good job of activating the DWR finish.
Reapplying DWR
Every once in a while, usually after five to six washes or when you notice the water is no longer beading on the jacket’s surface, you’ll need to reapply DWR.
A few products for doing this include Nikwax TX Direct Spray-On or Grangers Performance Repel. You have to apply these to a clean, damp jacket. Once applied, you then hang the jacket and allow it to dry.
Choose the Best Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
The right jacket is more than just another piece of gear. It is our shield against the elements, our safeguard during unexpected downpours, and our comfort in inclement weather. Lucky for you, there are many different types of lightweight waterproof jackets, each designed to help you avoid those downpours and stay dry on the trail.
Remember, when choosing the right jacket, consider the specific environments and conditions you frequent. For example, fly-fishing in New Zealand’s Marlborough region, where quick, unpredictable rainfall is common, you’ll want a jacket that offers stellar waterproofing and packability.
With that said, if you’re ready to pick up a jacket of your own, Jesse Brown’s Outdoors has plenty of options available. Or, if you want to browse a little more, subscribe to our newsletter for tips to help you pick the right one.