A jacket provides an outer layer to protect you against the weather, including rain, wind and snow. But not every jacket offers the same level of protection –and there are occasions when less can be more, such as in the summer, or when choosing a jacket for casual wear rather than mountain hiking. Here are some points to consider when choosing a jacket.
The chances are you will want to own a few different jackets to suit a range of uses.
Waterproof jackets
A waterproof jacket is designed to keep out the rain. But it’s not as simple as that. Some waterproof jackets are made with a fabric that is best used in colder and windier situations. A winter waterproof jacket will be aimed at hikers who need to be sure of staying dry during long periods of heavy rain. Heavier weight, three-layered Gore-Tex with a Hydrostatic Head (HH) of 30,000mm is a good example of this type of fabric. You can expect to stay dry and have good windproof protection but it’s likely that this type of jacket will not be so breathable.
For summer waterproof jackets, look for a lighter weight fabric that is waterproof but also much more breathable. These are likely to offer a HH of 10,000mm to 20,000mm but have a higher breathability rating. In summer conditions, the rain will generally be lighter or there will be shorter periods of heavy downpours but because the air temperature is warmer, you will sweat more so you will want the fabric to allow this vapour to escape from your body and through the jacket fabric.
There are also water-resistant jackets for occasional wear. You might add one of these to your hiking pack as a just-in-case jacket for shorter, lower-level hikes.
I have a winter waterproof jacket for hiking in the hills and mountains; a summer hiking jacket; and a waterproof jacket designed for running. I also own a cycling specific jacket and one for back country skiing.
Insulated jackets
If you spend time outdoors, you will need a warmer layer, especially in winter or for cooler evenings the rest of the year. Insulated jackets – also called puffer jackets – usually fall into two categories: Down filled or synthetic filled. A down jacket is made with natural products, while synthetic fill is man-made.
Down is usually warmer but has the disadvantage of being less effective if it gets damp. You can find down that has been treated to make it water resistant but, on the whole, synthetic fill will stay warm even when it’s damp or wet.
There are insulated jackets made with waterproof outer layers, or water-resistant external fabrics. There are also insulated jackets that are better worn beneath a waterproof jacket if you are looking for warmth and waterproofing.
Some jackets are designed for use in the mountains – they pack into a small space and can be put on when conditions get colder – while others are meant for every day use. If you are looking for a puffer jacket that is smart enough to wear to the office and for causal outings yet still offers protection from the weather, such as during your commute or for lower-level walks, check out the Leather Puffer Bomber jacket, which is part of The Jacket Maker’s Men’s Leather Jackets collection. Features of the men’s leather puffer jacket include real leather outer shell, polyester lining, insulation, high neck, two outer pockets and tow inside pockets. The advantage of leather is it is durable and heard wearing and offers a natural water-and wind resistance.
I own a range of jackets to suit different uses, including a winter warm down jacket, a lightweight synthetic fill jacket for summer wear and to use as a mid-layer on hikes, and a smarter insulated jacket for use when I head to the pub or out with friends for the evening.
Male and female fit
These days, jackets are designed to fit the average female physique or male physique. Look for a style that suits you and try on first. Good tailoring and design can make a big difference to fit and looks.
