Features of a good waterproof jacket
A waterproof jacket is an essential item for all wardrobes, especially those belonging to adventurous outdoor types.
When choosing your outdoor jacket, there are a few points to consider. Your jacket needs to be breathable, if it doesn’t breathe, you’ll get wet from your sweat and then you run the risk of catching a chill. Make sure you can reach up above your head whilst wearing the jacket and in front of you so you are not restricted whilst engaging in your outdoor activities. The hood should be able to fasten and adjust even whilst wearing gloves, and it should move with your head when you turn. Pockets should be situated above waist level so that they don’t catch your equipment. Vents in the jacket can make a big difference to cooling.
For lowland walking the ideal jacket is a lightweight waterproof jacket. These jackets are ideal for the casual walker who only needs the jacket to protect against non-favourable weather. If space is an issue and you need your jacket to not take up too much room, then this is what you are after. You will want the fabric to be fully waterproof.
Lining on a jacket is important, but it does depend on what you want to use your jacket for. Lining will help you stay warm and enhance the waterproof features of the jacket.
Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX® outerwear is made of the very toughest fabrics and is thoroughly tested to guarantee performance, materials such as GORE-TEX® will give a jacket maximum performance in all weather conditions.
An eVent 3 layer fabric system will offer maximum performance in all 4 seasons. A wired hood which is fully helmet compatible whilst also offering protection in bad conditions. Zips that are water resistant and easy to grip are important, whilst the design should allow total freedom of movement for those awkward moves on the ice.
Nigel Williams is a climbing and mountaineering expert who is currently researching waterproof jackets.
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