Bad weather is frequent when hiking, especially in the mountains. Before heading out on the trails, you should check the weather forecast, but also find out about the terrain you will be crossing. Indeed, you may cross small streams, use handrails or walk alongside crevasses. In order not to put yourself in danger, you need to be well equipped. Find out below how to protect yourself from rain while hiking.
Choosing rain protection for your upper body
The rain jacket
A rain jacket is an essential piece of kit to take hiking when the weather is unsettled. It is your third layer and its purpose is to protect you from the elements. We recommend opting for a hardshell jacket. It features a highly waterproof membrane, offers good breathability and provides significant windproof protection. An adjustable hood (with two drawcords at the collar and one at the back) is also a plus. Finally, its preformed peak provides extra protection. Another option is a packable rain jacket, both lightweight and effective against downpours.
Please note: if you expect heavy rain, or if you are planning a multi-day hike, pack a waterproof jacket. It will protect you from harsh weather conditions. Do not rely solely on a water-repellent jacket, which will not stand up to bad weather.
The rain cape
A rain cape or poncho is an alternative to a rain jacket when hiking. It offers several benefits, starting with complete waterproofness. On top of that, it protects both your body and your backpack. Finally, it is compact and lightweight, so you can take it anywhere.
As for the drawbacks, a rain cape can quickly become cumbersome once wet. It is also not recommended in strong winds, as rain can blow in from the sides. It also reduces visibility of your footing and can easily snag on obstacles.
If you choose a rain cape, make sure it offers a good balance between waterproofness and breathability.
Choosing rain protection for your lower body
Trousers
If you expect a lot of rain during your hike, it is best to invest in trousers with a waterproof, breathable membrane. That way, you won't have to worry about wet clothing. Another solution is to wear lightweight hiking trousers and carry waterproof overtrousers that can be slipped on quickly to provide solid protection during downpours. Combining a rain jacket with waterproof trousers ensures optimal protection against the rain.
Gaiters
Another item that can prove essential when hiking in the rain is a pair of gaiters. Their role is to protect your lower legs and feet so that water does not seep into your shoes. Combining a rain cape with gaiters is a great way to protect non-waterproof hiking gear from the rain.
Footwear
Finally, having waterproof hiking boots is crucial if you hike in unsettled weather. If they are not weather-resistant, your feet will soak in sweat and moisture, leading quickly to blisters. In addition, walking will become uncomfortable. It is important to choose boots with a Gore-Tex® membrane or equivalent to ensure you stay dry. Opt for mid-cut or high-cut boots if you want optimal rain protection.
Protecting your backpack from rain while hiking
Protecting the outside of the backpack
To protect the outside of your backpack, you can either rely on your poncho, which often covers both your body and your backpack, or opt for a raincover. This protective cover is often supplied with your hiking backpack or can be purchased separately. It is usually stored in a dedicated pocket of the backpack so that it can be deployed quickly if it rains.
Protecting the inside of the backpack
If you want to ensure that your clothes and personal belongings stay completely dry during your hike or trekking trip, you can also protect the inside of your backpack. Dedicated dry bags are designed specifically for this purpose: they strike the right balance between weight and durability and feature a secure closure. For small items or food, you can also use sealable freezer bags, which are waterproof and airtight, even if less durable than dedicated dry bags. Finally, large waterproof liner bags are available to serve as a backpack lining.
When it rains, there are many ways to protect yourself and your gear. Choosing one product over another depends on your preferences, the type of hiking you do and the environment you encounter.
