As us regular hikers, and the growing mountains of newbies to this activity, trek closer to the end of the year, New Year’s resolutions are made and getting outside is normally the top priority. For instance 79% of people making resolutions in 2024 aimed to improve their health, including activities like all round exercise and mindfulness which ties into our outdoor theme.
However, knowing which gear to have in your walking wardrobe is just as important as setting the goal to start the hike in the first place. Breathability, durability and waterproofing are all important factors that play a part in choosing the best product for the hills and mountains.
This BLOG aims to provide anyone planning a major purchase with a more informed perspective in the complex world of shopping for outdoor gear. It includes basic jargon explanations to prepare you, and offers an overview of different brands and linings to help you determine which is best.
Always ask the retailer what level of waterproofing the jacket has. The rating is determined by a Hydrostatic Head test and measured in millimetres. For the harsh UK weather, it is advisable to opt for 20,000mm or above, anything less will not perform as well.
Gore-Tex
This breathable fabric membrane was invented in 1969 by Robert W. Gore an American engineer, scientist and of course, inventor. He created this fabric that blocks liquid while allowing vapour to pass through and is also designed to be lightweight. Some renowned brands with gore-tex membranes include; Arc’teryx, Rab and Mountain Equipment, Sprayway, Berghaus and Patagonia.
Gore -Tex Pro
This top tier version of gore-tex technology was designed for more extreme outdoor conditions. It has been engineered to the maximum making it the ideal membrane for demanding activities such as: mountaineering, multi-day expeditions and of course offers good protection to prolonged exposure to wind and rain in the unpredictable UK mountains . Gore-tex pro is also extremely strong, it has a three-layer construction with a robust inner lining that fuses together. Not only this, but it's made with high-denier nylons to resist abrasions and harsh conditions. Brands as above.
Nikwax Analogy
Nikwax on its own is a 'wash in' waterproofing product but it has created its own textile partner brands most famously Paramo. Dissimilar to some waterproofing solutions, Nikwax is water-based and does not use harmful solutions or fluorocarbons, making it eco-friendly, also a positive. Nikwax products are applied easily through washing machines, sprays, or sponges, depending on the item being treated.
Paramo waterproofs mimic the actions of animal fur keeping the user warm and protected by moving liquid through the fabric system. They are warmer than other waterproofs so the layering system isn't required as much compared to the shell of a gore-tex jacket and they can often be too warm in temperate climates like the UK.
Texapore
This has been developed by the outdoor brand Jack Wolfskin, the German producer of outdoor wear and equipment, founded in 1981 and has become one of the largest suppliers in the industry.
Similar to gore-tex, it consists of a multi-layer construction, usually including an outer water-repellant shell, a waterproof polyurethane and optional smooth inner lining. There are five levels of protection for texapore depending on your chosen outdoor condition: Core, Pro, 02+, Infinity and Hyproof. Like Nikwax they have also developed an eco-friendly option 'Texapore Ecosphere' which incorporates recycled materials while maintaining weatherproofing capabilities.
H2No
This is Patagonia’s proprietary waterproof and oxygenated fabric technology. It’s designed to provide reliable protection against rain and snow while preserving comfort during outdoor activities. H2No fabrics have a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish combined with a waterproof membrane, creating a barrier against moisture. Furthermore, this product undergoes Patagonia’s rigorous 24 killer wash test. This ensures it will have a long-lasting performance.
It’s safe to say that all of these intelligent materials are the top gear for your walking wardrobe and all have individual factors which make them stand out from each other.
To advise for extreme adventure, gore-tex pro does come out on top as the number one. It’s worth the investment due to its sheer waterproofness, breathability and robust features. However, Texapore has the eco-conscious mindset which may swing it for some.
I've been a mountain leader for 20 years and have owned a Paramo smock which was comfortable, warm and had some great features. However, it does need regular re-proofing with Nikwax to keep it's waterproofing adequate.
I currently use a gore-tex pro Arc'Teryx and it's by far the best jacket I've owned for all round performance. I wash it and reproof it at least twice a year with Nikwax in the washing machine.
They all have a hefty price tag but if you buy cheap, you'll buy twice. A quality, hard wearing, high performing jacket will undoubtedly be the difference between success and failure.
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