How to choose the best waterproof jacket

Waterproof jackets are warm and fashionable clothes for rainy winter days and are very popular at the moment. Do you know how to choose a quality waterproof jacket? This article will give you the answer.

To ensure you choose a quality jacket, you need to make sure it has all the necessary specifications. A poorly designed jacket can let water in. On the other hand, features that allow air to flow into the jacket, such as vents and adjustable cuffs, can improve the jacket's breathability and comfort. Here's how to check if a waterproof jacket is quality before you buy it .

Evaluate water resistance and seams

When buying a jacket, check the label or online description for the waterproof rating, known as hydrostatic pressure. This is measured in millimeters – the higher the better – but a minimum of 5,000 mm is recommended.

The seams are taped and sealed to prevent water from seeping through the holes created during manufacturing. If you can see the seams, the jacket is not waterproof.

A jacket with a flap (a piece of fabric that covers the jacket's zipper) will also help keep you dry by preventing water from seeping into the jacket through the zipper holes.

Make sure the shirt fits properly

Choose a jacket that fits well so it doesn't get blown away by the wind. However, it should be loose enough to allow you to move around comfortably and wear a sweater underneath.

A properly sized waterproof jacket will also provide coverage for your lower back when you raise your arms. Drop tails (the back of the jacket is longer than the front) are especially useful. This feature gives you more coverage when you bend forward and is especially useful for cyclists.

Not all waterproof jackets are created equal, so it's a good idea to read product reviews before you buy.

Check the adjustability of the waterproof jacket

A good hiking jacket will have a hood and a drawstring hem – and often a waist too – for a better fit and better insulation. It will also protect you from wind and rain. Just check where the buttons will hit your body, as they can rub and be uncomfortable when hiking.

Adjustable hem and waist allow you to use the waterproof jacket's snaps to tighten the jacket for improved fit and insulation support.

Finally, Velcro cuffs can help keep water out and provide ventilation in drier conditions.

Check the hood

A well-fitting hood will protect your face from the elements without restricting your vision. A stiff peak will keep the hood from bending in the wind and direct rain away from your face. You can easily adjust the hood, even when wearing gloves.

Find a waterproof jacket with breathable technology

Ventilation is important if you plan to be active in your jacket. Underarm ventilation (armpit zips) can be helpful, but be careful because wearing a backpack can make it more difficult to access the armpit zips of your jacket. It can also distort the shape of the zipper, increasing the chance of water getting in. Ideally, you should bring your backpack to the store to try on the jacket.

More important than choosing a jacket with a vented zipper is choosing one with a membrane. This keeps raindrops out but still allows sweat and heat to escape. Cheap jackets often only have a water-repellent coating, so they are less breathable. While they may be fine for shopping in the rain, they are not suitable for hiking in the rain.

Choose a jacket with easy-to-open pockets

First, check to see if there are enough pockets for your needs. You may only need one pocket to hold your phone and keys when walking your dog around the block. Serious hikers may need a pocket large enough to hold a map and an internal pocket to keep valuables dry.

When choosing a jacket, try wearing it with a backpack to see how it fits into the pocket. And bring a pair of gloves to see how easy it is to open the pocket while wearing them.

Check the environmental friendliness of the jacket

PFAS (or PFCs) are synthetic chemicals that are often used to make products waterproof. But they impact the planet by taking up to 1,000 years to decompose. Look for PFC-free products to 'add life' to the Earth.

Above are the basic things to do to choose the best quality waterproof jacket. Hope the article is useful to you.

Jessica Tanner

Update 16 December 2024