Are you waiting eagerly for spring like we are? Rain or shine, nothing’s going to stop us from hitting the trail this season. However, since we do tend to get spring showers and thunderstorms, it’s worth it to take a look at waterproof – and waterproofing – gear at Alpine Shop. Keep reading for our recommendations and a few tips to keep yourself cozy and dry, no matter what kind of weather you face.
Top 5 Waterproof Jackets at Alpine Shop
If you’re in the market for a new waterproof jacket, we can help with our list of the Top 5 here at Alpine Shop.
#1 – Patagonia Stretch Rainshadow Jacket
This top-notch product from Patagonia is lightweight and packable, but it offers some of the best protection available with a 2.5-layer stretch nylon shell. Don’t take our word for it. This outside reviewer lists the Rainshadow Jacket in their top 10, commenting that the product “will keep you dry in everything from drizzle to light snowfall.” We like it because it has a ton of cool features and because, like many of Patagonia’s products, it’s made from 100% recycled material. Plus, this jacket is currently 30% off!
#2 – Patagonia Torrentshell
Our second product on the list is also from Patagonia: the trusted and reasonably priced Torrentshell. Coolhikinggear.com calls this popular product “a functional and no nonsense rain jacket” perfect for when “you need performance and protection from the elements when you’re out on the hills.” This one is another 2.5 layer jacket treated with Patagonia’s Deluge DWR finish to give it a high waterproof rating. For unpretentious protection, it can’t be beat.
#3 – Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket
Marmot took its bestselling PreCip and boosted performance and sustainability to create this eco-friendly jacket. At $100, it’s well worth the investment. We like it because it’s sturdy, durable, and PFC-free. While some reviewers have found it to be a little clammy at times, we think that if you pair this jacket with the correct wicking base layers, you stay cool and dry. We’re big fans of this versatile wardrobe staple.
#4 – North Face Venture 2
The Venture 2 for Women has been updated with new fabric and a sleek style. Its breathable DryVent 2.5-layer membrane keeps you warm and dry, even in the worst stormy weather. REI names this jacket the “best all-around multisport,” perfect for any adventure. We love its breathability and its adjustable hood.
#5 – Columbia Watertight II
With a sale price of less than $60, this is a solid choice for hikers on a budget. The Watertight II offers zippered hand pockets, wrist cinchers, and an adjustable hood in addition to its ultralight shell.
Waterproofing Tips and Terms to Know
When you go shopping for rainy weather gear, it’s helpful to know the difference between waterproof and water-resistant, among other terms.
When we use the term waterproof, we mean that the product is completely impermeable to water. Water resistant, on the other hand, means that the product can resist water to a great degree, but not entirely.
While most light rain jackets and inexpensive windbreakers are water-resistant, they aren’t entirely waterproof. They’ll keep you dry in a drizzle, but they’re useless in a heavy downpour. To be deemed fully waterproof, jackets need either a built-in barrier like Gore-Tex and/or an outer coating like DWR (durable water repellent) and fully taped seams.
Washing and Protecting Your Gear
Some people think that they can protect their waterproof gear by not washing it; actually, the opposite is true. Here’s why.
To be effective, a waterproof jacket needs a couple of things: a durable water repellent (DWR) coating that will bead water and keep it out and clean layers that allow air to pass through. To keep those layers clean, and to keep your jacket doing what it’s supposed to, it’s important to wash the product regularly. When you do, be sure to check the label for specific instructions. Generally, we recommend washing the jacket in warm water, rinsing it well, and hanging it to dry.
If you notice that your once-reliable jacket isn’t beading up water the way it used to, you may need to reapply DWR. This will help you keep your jacket for another few seasons. To reapply DWR, all you need is a spray-on product. At Alpine Shop, we offer the Nikwax TX Direct Spray-On, which works very well.
We also carry a dual washing/waterproofing product by Nikwax, if you prefer. If you have questions about your jacket’s performance, don’t hesitate to give us a call. One of our staff members will be happy to help!
Visit Alpine Shop for Waterproof Gear and More
In addition to waterproof jackets and DWR sprays, we have top-of-the-line hiking boots, cozy socks, and everything else you might need for springtime sports. Visit our shop or explore online for the best waterproof gear in the area. Or find all of our men’s and women’s rain jackets here.
