When hiking, the weather is not always ideal. You need to be ready to face certain weather conditions such as rain, wind or snow. The right gear is essential. A hiking jacket acts as a protective layer. It is chosen according to weather conditions, the type of hiking and the intensity of effort. To help you see things more clearly, we explain in detail how to choose your hiking jacket.
Considering the technical specification of your jacket
Waterproofness
Staying protected from the elements is essential when hiking. For a few hours out, a water-repellent jacket will offer a basic level of protection.
If you plan to head out in unsettled weather, particularly in the mountains, a waterproof jacket is the better choice. When buying one, you can refer to the Schmerber rating, which measures waterproofness. From 10,000 mm, a jacket is considered waterproof. If you decide to venture to altitude or in more demanding conditions, a 20,000 mm jacket offers full waterproof protection.
Breathability
A jacket's breathability is its ability to move moisture from the inside to the outside. Certain membranes such as Gore-Tex® are known for combining good waterproofness with breathability. This allows you to stay protected from rain while evacuating the perspiration generated by the body.
You can refer to the RET index to assess the breathability of your garment. A jacket with good breathability has a RET index between 6 and 12. Below six, it becomes ultra-breathable; above, less breathable.
The last breathability measurement: the value expressed in g/m²/24h, which indicates the amount of moisture evacuated by 1m² of fabric in 24 hours. Below 10,000 g/m²/24h, the fabric is considered low-breathability; above 40,000 g/m²/24h, it is highly breathable.
The windproof effect
The last essential criterion for choosing a good hiking jacket: the windproof effect. A windproof jacket helps the body maintain a constant temperature, even in very strong or cold winds. This is a criterion you should not overlook.
Choosing the right jacket type for your needs
The hardshell jacket
Waterproof, durable and windproof, the hardshell jacket is perfect for hiking in unsettled conditions. It features a water-resistant membrane. It can be worn all year round as a third layer, on top of your base layer and insulating layer. Made up of 2 to 3 layers, it is lightweight and packable. The only downside: it provides little warmth.
The softshell jacket
Unlike the hardshell, the softshell can replace both the second and third layer. It is made from a fleece-lined inner fabric and a windproof, water-repellent outer fabric. Very comfortable, it is ideal for cold weather. It provides good thermal insulation and excellent breathability. However, you should be aware of its limited waterproofness. Avoid wearing it for hiking when weather conditions are poor.
The 3-in-1 jacket
Made up of a removable fleece gilet or down jacket that attaches to the jacket, the 3-in-1 is extremely versatile. It combines a waterproof, breathable membrane with windproofing and provides excellent thermal protection thanks to its removable layer. You can go from a warm jacket to a lightweight, breathable one simply by removing the mid-layer. It can be used all year round, depending on your exertion level and the temperature.
Choosing the number of layers for your hiking jacket
The number of layers refers to the type of lining in the jacket. How you use your jacket varies depending on its lining, so it is important to know how many layers it has.
- The 2-layer jacket features a floating inner lining, with its membrane bonded to the outer protective fabric. Comfortable, insulating and functional, it is suitable for a day's hiking or even a multi-day trek.
- The 2.5-layer jacket is made with an outer fabric, a bonded membrane and a thin inner protective finish. A coating is applied to replace the inner lining. Lightweight and packable, it is perfectly suited for active hiking or trail-running.
- In a 3-layer jacket, the membrane is sandwiched between the outer fabric and the inner lining. The lining bonds fully to the membrane. This is the most technical, built-to-last and high-performance jacket. It is designed for trekking or mountaineering.
Choosing the right hiking jacket model also depends on your preferences and needs. For example, your choice may be guided by the number of pockets and their placement. Other features such as waterproof zips, hood type or jacket weight can also make a difference when selecting your hiking jacket.
