Mountain weather changes fast: carrying a jacket is essential even in fair conditions to shield against unexpected rain or wind. However, navigating waterproof ratings, breathability specs, and technical features isn't always straightforward.
Rest assured: whether you're an occasional mountain walker or a committed alpinist, we have the perfect waterproof hiking jacket for you!
Our top 6 waterproof jackets for hiking and mountaineering:
- the GUIDE PRO, for high-mountain athletes and demanding mountaineers
- the ADVANCED, lightweight and tough enough for the harshest mountain conditions
- the COSMIQUES, peak breathability and unbeatable value for regular hikers
- the CASCADE, the ultimate 3-layer hardshell jacket, waterproof to 10,000 mm
- the STORM, the ultra-lightweight jacket for high-intensity efforts
- the STORM PRO, built for demanding outdoor athletes
Cimalp GUIDE PRO: high-performance alpine protection to conquer summits
Tackle high-altitude terrain with complete confidence in the GUIDE PRO jacket, the ultimate companion for mountaineers and demanding high-mountain adventurers. Built for high-altitude extremes, it combines rugged durability, waterproof protection, and comfort.
Co-developed with the athletes of the Cimalp Mountaineering Team, the GUIDE PRO jacket delivers absolute protection against the elements, built for mountaineering, ski touring, and demanding technical outdoor pursuits. Its rugged 3-layer Rip-stop fabric features the Ultrashell® membrane, a Cimalp proprietary innovation setting new benchmarks across the outdoor industry: 20,000 mm / Schmerber waterproof, 80,000 MVP breathable.
The GUIDE PRO delivers waterproof protection, rugged strength, and durability engineered to match the scale of your ambitions!
- Large chest pockets compatible with a climbing harness and backpack.
- Shoulder reinforcements for added durability.
- Protective hood with 3-point adjustment and moldable peak, helmet-compatible.
- Premium finish with waterproof dual-slider VISLON® YKK zip.
- Underarm ventilation zips.
- 3-layer Rip-stop fabric equipped with the Ultrashell® waterproof and breathable membrane (80,000 MVP | 20,000 Schmerber).
- RECCO® avalanche rescue reflector to assist search and rescue teams.
- Generous cut designed to layer over a down jacket without restricting movement.
- Weight: 720 g
To find out more, read our dedicated GUIDE PRO article!
Cimalp ADVANCED: take on the mountain with lightweight performance
The ADVANCED is the ultimate mountain waterproof jacket for experienced adventurers seeking uncompromising performance. Ultra-lightweight and packable, it lets you move effortlessly on every mountain outing, whether stowed in your pack or deployed when conditions get rough. Mountaineering, all-season long-distance hiking, ski touring, or snowshoeing—it takes on your most demanding pursuits.
With its clean design, this technical jacket goes anywhere. Engineered for mountaineering and high-alpine environments, it features an ergonomic front zip allowing the collar to zip up below the nose comfortably. Laser-cut perforations at the collar ensure effortless breathing.
- Cimalp high-performance Ultrashell® membrane (20,000 Schmerber waterproof | 80,000 MVP breathable).
- Collar magnet to hold the collar neatly in place when the jacket is not fully zipped up.
- High-positioned chest pockets compatible with backpacks and harnesses for easy access on the move, plus 2 internal pockets.
- Thin and stretch.
- Packed volume: 1.5 L.
- RECCO® reflector.
- Underarm ventilation zips.
- Weight: 380 g
Cimalp COSMIQUES: peak breathability for mountain adventures
The COSMIQUES is the go-to jacket for hikers seeking versatility and exceptional value for money. Featuring our Ultrashell® membrane, this windproof jacket is breathable, waterproof, and durable for hiking in the rain. Lightweight and packable, it stows easily into any pack.
Performance is boosted by Cimalp's patented innovation: the exclusive AERODRY® system, engineered for continuous body temperature regulation while keeping weather out. The COSMIQUES guarantees maximum breathability no matter the weather or the intensity of your effort!
- AERODRY® 3D flexible pad system for enhanced moisture and heat transfer from the inside out
- 2 large side ventilation zips for enhanced breathability
- Ultrashell® waterproof-breathable membrane (80,000 MVP | 20,000 Schmerber)
- Fully welded waterproof seams
- 3-layer stretch Nano Rip-stop fabric
- Stretch jacket for total freedom of movement
- Cuff adjustment tabs
- 4 large external pockets, 1 internal pocket
- All seasons
- Weight: 405 g
Cimalp CASCADE: the 10,000 mm waterproof hiking jacket
The CASCADE 3-layer hardshell strikes the perfect balance between technical performance and comfort. Tough, windproof, waterproof, and breathable, it remains lightweight with clean styling that transitions effortlessly to everyday wear.
Its next-generation laminate fabric cuts down on volume and weight while delivering 10,000 mm waterproof protection. It is lightweight and packable.
- CIMASHELL® technology offering 10,000 Schmerber waterproof and 10,000 MVP breathable protection—ideal for mid-mountain conditions and multi-day trekking
- Ultra-durable
- 2 handwarmer pockets + 1 internal pocket
- Adjustable hood and cuffs
- Adjustable hem
- Waterproof zips, bonded laser cuts, and 1.5-layer taped seams for added durability.
- Underarm ventilation zips
- Weight: 512 g
Cimalp STORM: ultra-lightweight and built for high-output efforts
Originally designed for trail runners looking for performance and comfort, the STORM is a waterproof jacket that is also ideal for fast hiking, light hiking, or Nordic walking. Engineered to move naturally with your body during high-output efforts, it packs down into its integrated chest pocket in under 30 seconds.
Ultra-lightweight, it features a single chest pocket to keep weight to an absolute minimum.
- 10,000 mm waterproof protection
- 12,500 MVP breathability
- 2.5-layer Slim Ultrashell® membrane
- Reflective markings for enhanced visibility and safety
- Ergonomic hood for a secure, precise fit
- 3D-FLEX® weave: 100% stretch
- Excellent wind protection
- Chest snap tab to keep the jacket in place when the central zip is opened for ventilation
- 1 chest pocket and thumb loops
- Ultra-trail certified
- Weight: 215 g
Cimalp STORM PRO: the lightweight jacket for demanding athletes
With the STORM PRO, Cimalp delivers a higher-spec evolution of the Storm for trail runners and demanding outdoor athletes. Approved for ultra-trail races, it features fully taped waterproof seams and outstanding breathability!
Certified BLUESIGN® to ensure resource conservation and reduced environmental impact, this windproof jacket uses eco-friendly organic dyeing. Free of harmful PFCs, the STORM PRO fabric strikes the ideal balance between durability and stretch.
- Fully taped waterproof seams
- Ultrashell waterproof-breathable membrane (20,000 mm / 80,000 MVP)
- PFC-free TEFLON ECOELITE DWR treatment: Eco-conscious technology for durable waterproof protection that respects nature.
- Durable, stretch fabric
- BLUESIGN® ECO fabric: Minimises environmental impact while ensuring top-tier technical performance.
- Central zip: two-way bottom opening and chest snap tab for full ventilation without flapping
- Ergonomic hood engineered to follow head movements
- Thumb loops and 1 chest pocket
- Reflective prints
- Weight: 290 g
What waterproof rating do you need for a hiking jacket?
Fabric waterproofness is measured in Schmerber (water column height in mm). The test measures the water pressure required before droplets penetrate the fabric. 1 Schmerber equals 1 mm of water. A hiking jacket is considered highly waterproof from 10,000 mm upwards.
A quick guide:
2,000 mm: Withstands light rain. Adequate for short day outings when no heavy downpours are forecast.
10,000 mm: Fully waterproof fabric. Perfectly suited to handle challenging weather in mid-mountain terrain.
20,000 mm: The garment is fully waterproof. Built for high-altitude mountaineering to handle freezing rain and snow.
30,000 mm: Engineered for the most extreme mountain conditions. Rare and ultra-technical.
Key factors to consider when choosing a waterproof hiking and mountaineering jacket
While the waterproof rating is key, choosing the right jacket means looking beyond water column numbers alone: several other critical features come into play.
Choosing a jacket with enough breathability
Breathability is a crucial factor when selecting a waterproof hiking jacket. The harder the effort, the more moisture your body needs to vent. During sustained activity, you can lose over a litre of sweat per hour. A breathable membrane helps keep you dry and prevents the dreaded sauna effect inside your jacket.
A jacket is considered to have good breathability at 10,000 MVP (moisture vapour transmission rate), and very breathable from 20,000 MVP upwards. Ventilation zips are also a major plus to dump excess heat and sweat during high-output efforts.
Choosing the right jacket for your activity
To choose the right waterproof jacket, look at the construction: 2-layer, 2.5-layer, or 3-layer. Each construction offers distinct advantages tailored to specific activities and effort levels.
The 2-layer waterproof jacket bonds the membrane directly to the outer shell, protected by a loose inner lining. It offers a supple, comfortable feel and plenty of functional pockets, but is heavier and less packable than 2.5 or 3-layer options. A 2-layer jacket is ideal for weekend hikes and multi-day walks.
2.5-layer designs have no separate lining; the membrane is protected by a thin protective print on the inside (the half layer). This construction keeps the jacket exceptionally light and compact. Highly breathable, a 2.5-layer waterproof jacket is ideal for trail, Nordic walking, and fast hiking.
Finally, the 3-layer waterproof jacket is the most durable and technical option. The membrane is securely bonded between the face fabric and the inner backer. Featuring an athletic, closer-to-body fit, it is tailored for demanding hikes, mountaineering, trekking, and trail running.
Key features you shouldn't overlook
A few smart details can make all the difference in the field:
- Pockets: essential for stowing personal essentials; ensure they are spacious and easy to access. For mountaineering, pockets are positioned high up to stay fully accessible while wearing a climbing harness.
- The hood: a 3-point adjustment system keeps wind from catching the hood while preserving an unobstructed field of vision.
- Drawcords: essential for adjusting the fit to seal out wind and snow.
- Weight: Opting for a lightweight jacket is a huge advantage, making it easy to stow at the bottom of your pack until needed.
How to care for your waterproof jacket
To maximise the lifespan of your waterproof jacket and preserve its technical properties, wash it as infrequently as possible (2 to 3 times a year).
Before washing, make sure to close all zips completely (front zip, pit zips, and pockets). If your jacket features magnetic closures like the Advanced or Storm Pro, use a mesh wash bag to prevent the magnets from catching on the washing machine drum.
Use a small amount of liquid detergent, ideally formulated for technical garments, and wash at 30 degrees without fabric softener, stain remover, or chlorine bleach. Choose a gentle spin cycle and line dry your jacket away from direct sunlight.
To restore the DWR coating on your waterproof hiking jacket, apply a DWR product, then tumble dry for 20 minutes on low heat, or iron on low with a towel placed between the iron and the dry garment.
