Hardshell waterproof jackets

Explore Cimalp, the French brand for all your hiking clothing — our waterproof jackets for men and women fit seamlessly into our wide range of hiking jackets.

How does a waterproof jacket work?

A waterproof jacket is a jacket made using a waterproof fabric. That may sound straightforward, but it's the starting point — let's look at how this fabric is constructed.

To ensure this waterproofing, a hardshell membrane is used, with the aim of:

1. Preventing water from the outside from getting in (and this also completely blocks the wind)
2. Allowing moisture generated by the body — i.e. perspiration — to escape

There are different types of membrane with varying performance levels. Waterproofness is measured in mm of water and breathability in g/m²/24h (the amount of moisture expelled through 1m² of fabric in 24h). The more high-performance the membrane, the better the waterproofing and the faster the moisture evacuation. External temperature and humidity conditions will of course affect the jacket's performance.

The fabric construction also matters. There are several options for manufacturing it:

• The 2-layer fabric : the membrane and the outer fabric of the jacket are laminated together; the membrane can optionally be protected with an inner mesh inside the jacket. Breathability and waterproofing performance are generally lower
• The 2.5-layer fabric : same principle as before, except a film is printed on the inside of the membrane to protect it — the advantage being extremely lightweight jackets. Generally used for running and trail clothing
• The 3-layer fabric : this is the top-of-the-range, most high-performance option — the membrane is sandwiched between 2 fabric layers, these 3 layers are laminated together to create an effective rain jacket that offers protection in the most demanding conditions

The following elements have been added to the jacket:

• The zips used are waterproof zips (essential to prevent water ingress through the zip)
• All seams are taped: stitching requires piercing the membrane; this waterproof tape seals the seam and prevents water ingress through the stitching — this is generally what sets hardshell apart from softshell
• To improve breathability, ventilation zips are used to help limit the build-up of condensation inside the jacket caused by perspiration

How to choose your men's or women's hardshell hiking jacket?

At Cimalp, we offer high-quality waterproof hardshell jackets to keep you protected from the rain, whatever your needs. 

Explore our Ultrashell membrane for those seeking a high-performance rain jacket (comparable to the Gore-Tex® membrane from Meindl). These products are ideal for demanding activities: mountaineering, high-altitude mountain, trekking, challenging hiking, etc. Paired with our eco-responsible DWR 100% PFC-Free water-repellent treatment, waterproof zips, a hood and pockets tailored to your activities, you'll be ready to face the harshest weather conditions.

Explore our hardshell membrane for leisure hiking, used on a men's jacket and also available as a women's waterproof jacket for your walks and hiking trips up to mid-mountain terrain, offering perfect protection against rain and wind.

For optimal comfort during activity, choose a jacket with ventilation zips — ideal for improving the breathability of your jacket. Check out our top best waterproof hiking and mountaineering jackets to help you make your choice!

How to care for your rain jacket?

To care for a men's or women's waterproof hiking jacket, it is recommended to follow the instructions on the product label. Machine wash your jacket at 30° using a detergent specifically designed for waterproof clothing, and avoid fabric softeners. Dry your jacket preferably in the open air, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, for greater longevity. If necessary, re-waterproof your jacket using a waterproofing spray to maintain its properties.