Hiking | what makes hiking jacket waterproof?

There are so many waterproof hiking jackets at different prices. What makes hiking jackets waterproof? To determine which one suits you the best, you should consider the following aspects.

Discover our hiking jacket selection

Consider climate, use frequency, and budget

When hiking on alpine routes, it is common to encounter stormy weather. So a jacket that can withstand high water pressure makes a great choice.

When hiking through dense bushes and cliff edges, an abrasion-resist jacket would be a wise option.

Hong Kong summertimes are often stifling and rainy. You will appreciate the light and breathable waterproof jackets. Personally, bringing a 2.5-layer waterproof jacket to a summer hike helps shield against sudden showers. Also, a sudden drop in temperature can be harsh as we get on public transport. Putting on a thin waterproof jacket can avoid catching a cold. The dynamic environment in Hong Kong makes a thin waterproof jacket essential.

The price of a waterproof jacket can range from dozens to thousands. To make a smart purchase, it is crucial to determine which feature is needed.

Waterproof technologies - the difference between coating, 2.5 layers, 3 layers

It is the number of layers that the jacket is composed of.

Do more layers make the jacket more waterproof?
Not necessarily.

The effectiveness of the waterproof membrane determines the hiking jacket’s waterproof level and breathability. Also, with more layers, not only does it increase the jacket’s weight, the jacket may also become less breathable. Their difference are as follows:

Coating waterproof jacket - entry choice

Outer-Layer: Often made with synthetic fiber, and has been treated to be water-resistant.
Waterproof coating: to prevent the waterproof coating from being compromised by skin and sweat contact, a cloth screen is often sewed in the inner layer, to increase the durability of the hiking jacket.

In summary, coating waterproof jackets are often less waterproof, more durable and can come in a more competitive price. This type of jacket can be fit for most Hong Kong weather. It is a decent choice for beginners.

Nh100 hiking waterproof jacket

Technical Information:

- Can resist up to 2,000 mm water pressure
- Can shield up to 2 hours under 12cm of precipitation
- RET = 12
- Weight 250g

This hiking waterproof jacket is designed to reach a balance in its waterproof level, durability, and pricing. It is designed to provide protection for short hikes. The detachable hood can be adjusted to better customize its fit. It is adjustable with elastic drawcord and toggles at the bottom of the jacket, tightening the jacket can improve its performance against stormy weather.

Women's mh100 waterproof jacket

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Men's nh100 waterproof jacket

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Rain poncho

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2.5 Layers waterproof jacket - optimised to be lightweight

Outer-Layer: Composed with Synthetic fiber, it has been treated to be water-resistant.

Mid-Layer waterproof membrane: The critical component in making the jacket waterproof and breathable, suitable for hiking.

The 0.5 Inner-Layer: A protective layer that is either printed or sprayed on. It is considered to be 0.5 layer due to it not being an outer fabric. It protects the waterproof membrane from being compromised by skin and sweat.

In summary, it is relatively more waterproof, the thinnest and the lightest kind of waterproof jacket. This type of jacket is suitable for most Hong Kong weather. It is an excellent choice when lightweight is the first priority.

Fh900 fast hiking waterproof jacket

Technical information:

- Top half portion can resist up to 5,000 mm of water pressure
- Lower half portion water resistance
- RET = 6
- Weight 180g
This waterproof jacket is designed for fast hiking, it provides intermediate waterproofness. Pit vents are located at the armpits, chest, and back to allow better heat dissipation.

Fh500 fast hiking waterproof jacket

Technical Information:

- Can resist up to 10,000 mm water pressure
- RET = 6
- Weight 190g

Similarly being a lightweight waterproof jacket, FH500 provides a superior waterproof level when compared with FH900. There are 2 Pit Zips to provide mechanical ventilation under light rain.

HIKING | WHAT MAKES HIKING JACKET WATERPROOF?

Mh150 waterproof hiking jacket

Technical Information:

- Can resist up to 10,000 mm water pressure
- RET = 10
- Weight 490g

With 4 pockets to carry hiking essentials.

3 Layers waterproof hiking jacket - excels in waterproof level, breathability and durability.

Outer-Layer: Composed with Synthetic fiber, and has been treated to be water-resistant.
Mid-Layer waterproof membrane: The critical component in making the jacket waterproof and breathable.
Inner-Layer: Composed with abrasion-resist fabric, which protects the mid-layer waterproof membrane and provides a skin-friendly touch.

In summary, it is the highest waterproof, most durable, and most comfortable hiking jacket. Suitable for alpine trails and complex weather.

Mh500 mountain hiking waterproof jacket

Technical Information:

- Can resist up to 15,000 mm water pressure
- Can shield up to 3 hours under 30cm of precipitation
- RET = 6
- Weight 574g

MH500 has been refined to be more waterproof, and lighter while maintaining its breathability. It has passed through the test under 100 L/m²/h of water for 3 hours, which simulates the showers in the mountain ranges while maintaining the body dry.

If you are interested on why waterproof hiking jacket is important, and how to overcome wet season, see the following sport advices

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Hiking | How to dry your hiking shoes and socks?

It is tricky to avoid getting wet when hiking in the wet season. Even if you wear excellent waterproof hiking shoes and rain pants, rain drops can slide into your shoes. Or you may step into a puddle soaking your shoes and socks. When we need to wear the same shoes and socks to carry on the journey on the next day, how should we dry the wet shoes and socks?