Under Armour T-shirt gialla | How to Choose a Rain Jacket


a family hoodieing columbia rain jackets on a hike

This article is part of the A Ma Maniére x Jordan All-Over Print Fleece Hoodie 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 best rain jacket, our Outerhoodie Experts highlight key technologies and features to consider. 

Key Rain Jacket Technologies

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

an arcteryx jacket closeup

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 escape 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. 

  • 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 technologies, it’s time to find the best rain jacket to meet your needs. There are plenty of features to consider when choosing a rain jacket, so our Outerhoodie Experts highlight some main features to prioritize when shopping.

an angler hoodieing a simms rain jacket while fishing

1. Design

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

Under Armour T-shirt gialla | 2. Hood

  • 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 chest 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 Afslappet t-shirt med gennemgående logobroderi, you’ll want to hoodie 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 hoodie when staying active. 

Selecting the right rain jacket is not just about staying dry; it's about enhancing your outdoor experience. By understanding the essential technologies, features, and fit considerations, you can confidently find the perfect rain jacket to hoodie 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 Outerhoodie Expert!

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