Waterproof jackets
for winter walking
A really good waterproof jacket is one of the best walking investments you can make – and a great gift for any keen hiker. Stay dry, warm and safe on the trail this winter with our experts’ recommendations of the best winter walking jackets for men, women and children across a range of price points
Protective and well-fitting waterproofs are essential in a walking wardrobe. With the right jacket, even the worst weather won’t stop you getting out and enjoying walks in comfort. It’s not just about enjoyment, either; in exposed environments such as Britain’s upland areas, cold, wet weather can quickly become dangerous if you need to slow down or stop for any reason. At these times, a good waterproof jacket could save your life.
Waterproof fabrics have a Hydrostatic Head (HH) rating, a lab-based test that measures the height of a column of water that the fabric can resist, in mm. To be considered waterproof, a fabric must be rated at a minimum of 1,500mm, but most hiking jackets are rated at least 10,000mm.
Waterproof fabrics are often advertised as being breathable, theoretically preventing the build-up of condensation inside the jacket. But in real-world use, it’s the cut and fit of the garment, along with design features such as back vents and pit zips, that make the most difference. A well-fitting jacket with a good hood and well-placed vents will keep you as dry and comfortable as possible. We found a big disparity in sizing between different brands, and even different jackets from the same brand, so it’s always worth trying them on over your usual walking kit before buying.
Most waterproof jacket fabrics are made using either a three-layer or two-layer construction. Three-layer fabrics bond a durable face fabric, a waterproof membrane and a light, protective backer fabric together so it looks like a single piece of material. They tend to offer the best protection for their weight and packability. Two-layer fabrics bond the membrane to a face fabric but include a separate drop-liner, adding a little weight and bulk, but also more airflow and comfort against the skin. Jackets designed for winter use may also be insulated with a natural or synthetic layer that traps warm air, keeping you cosy even in the coldest weather.
Waterproof garments are usually treated with a durable water repellent (DWR), so water beads and runs off rather than soaking in. All the jackets in this test use a PFOA/PFC-free DWR because perfluorinated compounds are persistent chemicals that can be pervasive and toxic.
BUDGET: Women’s jackets, men’s jackets
MID-PRICE: Women’s jackets, men’s jackets
HIGH-END: Women’s jackets, men’s jackets
KIDS' JACKETS
Wherever you see the 'Buy now' button, the retailer will make a donation to the Ramblers if you click and make a purchase. (NB Not all of our recommended jackets have this button.)
OUR EXPERTS
Sim Benson is an outdoor author and photographer with an environmental science background. He is a kit expert and has spent over 15 years working, testing and reviewing in the outdoor industry.
Jen Benson is an outdoor adventure writer and researcher with an MSc in sport and exercise medicine. She is happiest when she is outdoors, and is passionate about exploring Britain’s wild places on foot.
Women’s jackets
Budget
Ayacucho Yosemite Jacket
550g
£85
cotswoldoutdoor.com
Size range: XS-3XL
Made from 100% recycled polyester, this great-value jacket comes with lots of useful features, including adjustment at the hem, hood and sleeves. Underarm ventilating zips keep you cool and reduce condensation build-up, and there are zipped handwarmer pockets. The soft-feel, protective, two-layer fabric has a mesh drop-liner so it doesn’t feel clammy against the skin. The cut feels a little restrictive, but for general walking and commuting it’s a great choice.
Rab Downpour Eco Waterproof Jacket
300g
£125
rab.equipment/uk
Size range: UK6-UK18
At this price, the fit and features of this jacket are impressive. The cut offers full freedom of movement, while adjustments at the hem, cuffs and hood ensure a weatherproof fit. There’s a drop tail for extra coverage, zipped vents under the arms and two zipped handwarmer pockets. With a smart two-tone look, it’s light, packable, versatile and very comfortable in use, but would need an additional layer for really bad weather.
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket
350g
£180
eu.patagonia.com
Size range: XS-XXL
With its clean lines and well-thought-out features, the Torrentshell balances affordability, great looks, sustainability and performance. Patagonia’s three-layer H2No shell fabric is made entirely without PFCs/PFAS in a Fair Trade Certified factory. It’s super-comfortable yet highly protective, with a roll-away adjustable hood, soft microfleece lining at the neck, venting underarm zips and two handwarmer pockets, one of which doubles as a stuff sack.
Columbia Explorer’s Edge II Waterproof Insulated Jacket
700g
£200
columbiasportswear.co.uk
Size range: XS-XL
The flashy gold interior of this jacket is quite a talking point but, once it’s on, its sleek and understated looks offer no hint of inner bling. Lightweight yet warmly protective, the Omni-Tech waterproof shell covers a cosy layer of insulation and that gold lining – Columbia’s Omni-Heat reflective technology. The snug fit (consider sizing up), longer cut, inner cuffs with thumb loops, underarm zips, high collar and adjustable, insulated hood will keep you warm and dry even in the worst weather.
Mid-price
Kathmandu Bealey Gore-Tex Rain Jacket
485g
£220
kathmandu.co.uk
Size range:
UK6-UK18
This two-layer Gore-Tex jacket is comfortable and rustle-free, with a mesh drop-liner to maintain airflow within. It’s generously sized with a longer length, but we found it a little restrictive during more dynamic movements and the hood wasn’t as protective as some on test. Good features include adjustment at the hem, hood and cuffs, soft fleece-lined pockets, collar and chin guard, and a handy inside pocket for valuables.
The North Face Dryzzle Futurelight Jacket
390g
£225
thenorthface.co.uk
Size range: XS-3XL
Made with seam-sealed Futurelight, The North Face’s three-layer nano-spun fabric aims to combine air-permeability with waterproofing for a more breathable garment. This jacket does feel more comfortable than other unvented models. Made from 100% recycled fabrics, it has an attached, fully adjustable and articulated hood, Velcro cuffs, an adjustable hem, plus an inside pocket and two reverse-access pockets. This one sizes small.
Sprayway Reaction Long Jacket
485g
£230
sprayway.com
Size range: UK8-UK18
This jacket’s excellent design, fabric and features make it a joy to wear, offering great weather protection with full freedom of movement. The articulated, roll-away hood stands up to the worst weather; the zipped pockets are huge yet unobtrusive – each one fits a full-size OS map, as does one of the two internal pockets; and there is adjustment at the hem, waist, cuffs and hood. The two-layer, 100% recycled polyester Gore-Tex fabric is crisp yet quiet, with a drop-liner for breathability and comfort. This has a longer length for extra coverage.
Tierra
Aktse Jacket
445g
£270
trekitt.co.uk
Size range: XS-XL
This comfortable two-layer Gore-Tex jacket is made from 100% recycled polyester with a silky finish to the face fabric and a smooth drop-liner. Well suited to both walking and everyday wear, it features zipped handwarmer and chest pockets, underarm vents, and adjustment at the hem and cuffs. The hood, while adjustable, wasn’t as protective as other similar jackets in wet, windy weather.
High-end
Montane Duality Lite Insulated Waterproof Jacket
550g
£350
montane.com
Size range: UK8-UK16
This jacket is warm and protective enough for really cold, wet weather without feeling heavy or bulky. Comfortable and unrestrictive in use, it teams a durable Gore-Tex waterproof outer with efficient, lightweight PrimaLoft Silver insulation, ideal for winter walks and reducing the need for multiple warm layers. Great weather protection from a substantial hood, longer-length cut, and adjustment throughout, as well as cosy zipped handwarmer pockets and a useful inside pocket.
Rab Valiance Waterproof Down Parka
775g
£380
rab.equipment/uk
Size range: UK8-UK16
There really is no such thing as bad weather with this longer-length winter jacket that combines the soft, luxurious, sustainable warmth of 100% recycled down with a highly protective Pertex Shield waterproof shell. Cosy weatherproofing includes an adjustable, insulated hood, a fleece-lined collar, Velcro cuffs and a double zip to allow freedom of movement when walking or maximum warmth when still. Three good-sized zipped pockets keep hands warm and valuables safe.
66° North
Skálafell Jacket
675g
£485
66north.com
Size range: XS-2XL
In cold, drier conditions, the extra breathability of a water-resistant fabric can be far more pleasant than a fully waterproof one. This smart, functional jacket teams a Gore-Tex Infinium Windstopper outer with cosy Polartec Power Fill, creating a highly protective yet extremely comfortable jacket. Suitable for everything from extreme winter sports to smart winter workwear, it has adjustment at the hem, cuffs and helmet-compatible hood, five zipped pockets and a two-way main zip.
Fjällräven
Keb Eco-Shell
470g
£525
fjallraven.com
Size range: XXS-XXL
This great-looking jacket has been a firm favourite since we first tested it five years ago, and it’s still going strong after regular use. The updated version has the same protective, stretchy, rustle-free fabric, with a great cut and thoughtful features for comfortable all-day, all-year wet weather wear. The helmet-compatible hood is fully adjustable, four external pockets and one internal offer lots of storage space, and zipped underarm vents add breathability. It’s expensive, but performs and lasts brilliantly.
ADVERTISEMENT
Men’s jackets
Budget
Mountain Warehouse Verge Extreme Jacket
590g
£119.99
mountainwarehouse.
com
Size range: XXS-3XL
Well-featured and suitable for most winter walking conditions, the two-layer design combines a waterproof polyester shell with a mesh liner to improve airflow and against-the-skin comfort. The hood is pretty good, cinching down neatly, but lacking a stiffened peak. The jacket features an adjustable hem, zipped pockets and wide, adjustable cuffs, which roll up. It’s cut well for walking but slightly restrictive when scrambling.
Craghoppers
Padley Jacket
980g
£140
craghoppers.com
Size range: S-XXL
This cosy jacket is perfect for chilly winter walks or general cold-weather wear. The recycled polyester shell is durable and looks smart, with a waterproof AquaDry membrane, hollowfibre insulation, and toasty recycled fleece liner to keep you warm and dry in any weather. The downside of the warmth and protection is that it’s quite heavy and bulky if you do need to carry it. It has six pockets and an adjustable hood.
Jack Wolfskin Jasper Insulated Jacket
790g
£175
jack-wolfskin.co.uk
Size range: S-3XL
Ideal for cold, wet-weather walking, whether you’re in the hills or around town, this smart, functional and protective jacket is good value, with sound ethical credentials. Jack Wolfskin’s own-brand Texapore Core waterproof fabric is insulated with Texatherm Core for colder days. Cosy features include fleece-lined, zipped pockets and a snug adjustable hood. The entire jacket is polyester, making end-of-life recycling easier. It’s also Bluesign approved and made to Fair Wear Foundation standards.
Highlander Munro All Weather Mountain Jacket V2
560g
£179.99
highlander-outdoor.com
Size range: S-2XL
The newest version of this tough yet versatile jacket has a better hood, more durable and protective waterproof fabric, and improved sustainability. Highlander’s three-layer polyester PROT3X fabric is protective and highly waterproof, keeping you dry even in the worst weather. It’s suitable for most winter walks and packable enough for summer use. Features include zipped underarm vents, handwarmer pockets accessible over a waist belt, and an articulated, adjustable hood with a sturdy wired peak.
Mid-price
Alpkit
Fortitude Jacket
515g
£199.99
alpkit.com
Size range: XS-XXL
Designed for maximum protection on winter hillwalks, this jacket is a great choice for a typical British winter. It’s also light and packable enough to carry just in case. The three-layer polyester fabric is durable and doesn’t cling when wet, but it still feels soft and moves comfortably. The longer cut, double storm flaps on the zip, adjustable cuffs and wired hood all help keep the water out. Made from recycled fabrics to B Corp standards.
Sprayway Vihar Insulated Jacket
550g
£220
sprayway.com
Size range: S-XXL
This cosy, comfortable jacket combines a Gore-Tex waterproof outer with synthetic InsoTherm insulation, making it ideal for everything from winter hill walks to a relaxed café stroll. It’s smart enough for daily use but stands up to mountain weather with a snug, protective hood. Zipped hand-warmer pockets and a Velcro inside pocket offer plenty of storage options. Made with recycled materials to Fair Wear Foundation standards.
Outdoor Research
Foray Jacket
435g
£260
outdoorresearch.com
Size range: S-XXXL
This versatile waterproof provides protection for winter walks and is also light and packable enough for year-round use. The fabric feels soft yet durable, it looks good and is cut with space for layers when it’s cold. Venting side zips allow cooling airflow when you’re working hard, while the articulated hood is protective and comfortable. Made from recycled fabrics, a solvent-free membrane and solution-dyed backer, it’s certified carbon neutral and Bluesign approved.
Páramo Velez
Adventure Smock
750g
£290
paramo-clothing.com
Size range: S-XXL
Páramo does waterproofing differently. Its Nikwax Analogy fabric is wind-resistant, with a DWR treatment to shed water and a pump liner to move moisture away from your body. This means it’s much more breathable than traditional waterproof fabrics – particularly good when working hard in colder weather. This smock-style version features large, zipped pockets, venting side zips and a protective hood. Effective at keeping you dry, it’s soft, quiet and unrestrictive to wear. Made to Fair Trade standards.
High-end
Berghaus
Ridge-Seeker Waterproof Jacket
530g
£350
berghaus.com
Size range: XS-2XL
This new four-season shell jacket is made from a tough, three-layer Gore-Tex fabric. The hood is adjustable and articulated for movement, with a wired peak for extra protection. Great features include long underarm zips to vent heat and add airflow, and a selection of useful internal and external zipped pockets. Well cut, with good freedom of movement and space for layers, it feels like armour against any weather.
Salewa Ortles 3L Gore-Tex Jacket
460g
£365
salewa.com
Size range: S-XXL
Designed for lightweight mountaineering use, the Ortles maximises performance and weather protection for minimal weight and bulk. The tough, recycled polyester fabric is a combination of three-layer Gore-Tex on the front and sleeves, and lighter Gore-Tex Paclite in less exposed sections. The athletic, articulated cut feels great in use, allowing full freedom of movement, but you may need to size up to wear layers underneath. Features a helmet-compatible hood, pit zips, and internal and external pockets.
Artilect M-Formation 3L Jacket
665g
£550
artilect.studio
Size range: XS-XXL
This top-quality shell is well-made and durable. The cut is great, with enough room for layers and barely any body movement when you raise your arms – perfect for scrambling. It’s made from Artilect’s High & Dry three-layer fabric, with four-way stretch, an impressive 30,000mm HH rating and Empel, a permanent DWR. Features include a Recco reflector, four zipped external pockets, a stretch inside pocket and an excellent helmet-compatible hood.
Helly Hansen Odin Infinity Insulated Jacket
795g
£700
hellyhansen.com
Size range: S-2XL
Offering a great combination of warmth and weather protection, this quality jacket is ideal for cold-weather walking, mountaineering or winter sports. The tough, hydrophobic Lifa Infinity outer is insulated with warm, lightweight Lifaloft. Zipped underarm vents add airflow when you’re working hard, while the adjustable hood is articulated and protective. Cut for comfort and freedom of movement, it features a selection of zipped pockets and a Recco avalanche transponder. An award-winner for innovation, design and sustainability but, yes, it is £700.
Kids' jackets
Craghoppers
Risco Jacket
£80
craghoppers.com
Ages 3-13
Kids will love this tough, great-looking jacket with its big zip pockets. It uses the same AquaDry waterproof fabric as the adults’ jackets, so they’ll stay dry, however hard it rains. Recycled ThermoPro insulation and a cosy fleece lining will keep them warm and comfortable. It’s got a good hood, adjustable cuffs and Grow With You technology that allows you to extend the sleeves as your child grows.
Jack Wolfskin Actamic 2L Insulated Jacket
£115
jack-wolfskin.co.uk
Ages 1.5-14
Designed for cold, wet-weather adventures, the Actamic uses the same waterproof and insulating materials as its adult jackets. The stretch cuffs, hood and snow skirt help keep the warmth in and the weather out – perfect for long days outside. It has reflective details, zipped hand-warmer pockets and an inside pocket. Made from partially recycled fabrics to Fair Wear Foundation standards.
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket
£130
eu.patagonia.com
Ages 5–18
The mini version of the popular adult’s jacket looks great, provides reliable weather protection and is hardwearing enough for active kids. With a tough, three-layer construction, zipped pockets and reflective details, it’s versatile enough for year-round use. Sizes a little small. A baby version is available for ages 2 to 5 for £110. Both are made from recycled nylon to Fair Trade standards.
Helly Hansen Juniors’ Fusion Lab 3-Layer Jacket
£220
hellyhansen.com
Ages 8-16
For kids who spend long days out enjoying winter adventures, this tough, highly waterproof jacket is made from a three-layer recycled Helly Tech performance fabric with zipped underarm vents. The cuffs and hem are adjustable to fit a range of sizes, while a removable hood is protective but also works well with a helmet. A Recco reflector is a useful addition for skiers.
We are the Ramblers, Britain’s walking charity. We open the way for everyone to enjoy the simple pleasures of walking. And we step up to protect the places we all love to wander. Click to find out more
Built with Shorthand