The technical aspects of a hiking jacket matter a great deal when choosing one, as we saw in the buying guide. Breathability, waterproofness and thermal insulation are the three main parameters to consider. But beyond these important parameters, there are other details that also count a great deal when selecting your next hiking jacket.
Hiking jacket: details to examine when making your choice
Weight
It's less decisive than when choosing hiking footwear, but it's worth considering as the differences between models and brands can be significant. What's more, you can always layer a fleece under your jacket in cool weather if it's on the lighter side — being lightweight will then be a real asset for reducing the weight of your backpack or on your shoulders!
The hood
The hood can be detachable or fixed and can be stowed in the collar. Hoods are very important for protecting your head from cold and wind. It's the part of your body that is most exposed and where heat loss is greatest — so your head is where you'll feel the cold first. If you're looking for a hiking jacket for cold or cool conditions, a hood is essential and cannot be overlooked.
Easy care
Whatever hiking jacket model you choose, it shouldn't cause you much trouble on this front. Most water-repellent fabrics pick up very little dirt and rarely need washing. A simple wipe with a damp cloth is usually enough. If the water-repellent effect diminishes, there are very handy sprays to restore it. But do pay attention to the manufacturer's care instructions. Overly delicate fibres should be avoided, and if your jacket is very complicated to care for, this is often a sign that it won't hold up well over time.
The waist drawcord
It's often a detail that gets overlooked when buying a hiking jacket, yet it can make all the difference. A waist drawcord guarantees a good seal and real comfort. This is especially true for softshell or mid-season jackets, which should absolutely feature one.
Cable ports
It's a more recent concern, but there's no denying that people head out hiking with a phone, a music player or a GPS. Access to these devices needs to be made easy, particularly for listening or connecting to a power bank. Cable ports are therefore increasingly common on a hiking jacket. They are of course not essential, but their presence can make a real difference in terms of comfort and practicality.
Cuffs
The cuffs of a hiking jacket should always be adjustable. Velcro allows fine-tuning and provides genuine comfort while preventing draughts, which are detrimental to thermal comfort. In addition, adjustable cuffs also prevent moisture from getting in, which is particularly unpleasant inside the sleeve.
The collar
The collar is a point to watch, as it is a source of friction against a fairly sensitive area of skin and a prime entry point for rainwater. A poorly placed snap button or an ill-fitting cut can quickly become irritating. Bear this in mind when choosing your hiking jacket. Many models now integrate a sewn-in mask that protects against wind and rain. This is a real bonus worth considering when you choose your hiking jacket.
Pockets
The pockets of a hiking jacket are essential for their practicality. What matters is not the ability to carry large volumes in your pockets. Rather, having multiple pockets in different sizes and well-positioned is key to the good ergonomics of your garment.
Most hiking jackets today are designed with zipped pockets that offer great security. Not all pockets need to be zipped, but at least some should be, for safety reasons when storing car keys, money or important documents.
