Choosing Your Hiking Jacket: Guide and Advice

When going on a hike, it is essential to have the right gear to handle unpredictable weather conditions. A jacket is a key piece of hiking clothing, providing protection against rain, wind, and cold while ensuring good moisture wicking. But with so many models available, how do you choose the right jacket for your needs? From waterproof jackets and water-repellent options to softshells, insulated jackets, and hybrid models, each type serves a specific purpose.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the essential criteria to consider, the various technologies used, and how to choose the right jacket based on weather conditions and the type of hiking you plan to do.

Quick Summary: Which Hiking Jacket Should You Choose?

Looking for a suitable hiking jacket? Here are the key points to remember:

• In hot weather or during intense physical activity: opt for a lightweight, breathable softshell jacket.
• In continuous rain or snow: go for a waterproof hardshell jacket (e.g. Gore-Tex, 20,000 mm).
• In cold and dry weather: choose a down or synthetic insulated jacket.
• For a multi-day trek: prioritise a lightweight, packable and durable jacket.
• In shoulder-season or when the weather is unpredictable: a hybrid jacket is ideal for combining warmth, breathability, and protection.

Contents

What Type of Jacket Do I Need for Hiking or Trekking, and Why?

The choice of a hiking jacket primarily depends on the conditions you will be facing. A simple summer hike on open trails does not require the same gear as a high-altitude trek, where the elements can be particularly harsh. Several factors need to be considered:

• The weather: rain, wind, high or low temperatures, and humidity levels.
• The intensity of the activity: a short, leisurely hike and a demanding climb require jackets with different properties.
• The duration of the outing: a day hike does not necessarily require the same level of protection as a multi-day trek.
• The type of terrain: whether in forests, mountains, or plains, exposure to the elements can vary.

A good hiking jacket should regulate body temperature, provide protection from wind and precipitation, and remain breathable to prevent moisture buildup.

Essential Criteria to Consider

Waterproofness

Waterproofness is often the first criterion that comes to mind when choosing a hiking jacket. It is measured in mm of water column and indicates the fabric’s ability to withstand water pressure before it penetrates the material. A jacket with a waterproof rating of 10,000 mm can handle moderate rain, while a 20,000 mm model is designed for extreme conditions.

Waterproofness should not be confused with water repellence. A water-repellent jacket sheds water on the surface thanks to a special finish, but it is not intended for prolonged exposure to rain. This finish can be reinforced with a coating or a membrane, such as the well-known Gore-Tex, which offers effective protection while maintaining good breathability.

• Expressed in mm of water column (e.g. 10,000 mm = moderate rain; 20,000 mm = extreme conditions).
• A waterproof jacket effectively blocks water.
• Not to be confused with water repellence, which makes water bead off but does not withstand continuous rainfall.

Breathability

Breathability is another crucial factor. A jacket that is completely waterproof but does not allow perspiration to escape will quickly become uncomfortable during intense activity. That’s why the best jackets combine waterproofness with the ability to let moisture vapour escape from the body. Some jackets are equipped with underarm ventilation zips to enhance airflow and reduce condensation.

• Allows perspiration to escape in the form of vapour.
• Essential for preventing internal condensation.
• Underarm ventilation zips are recommended.

Thermal Insulation

When hiking, managing body temperature is essential to avoid getting too hot or too cold. Thermal insulation depends on the jacket’s material, which can be either natural down or synthetic. Down jackets are lightweight and offer excellent insulation, but they lose effectiveness when exposed to moisture. In contrast, jackets with synthetic filling retain their insulating properties even in damp conditions.

• Natural down: very warm, compressible, lightweight, sensitive to moisture.
• Synthetic: retains warmth even when wet, more durable.
• Favour layered insulation for greater adaptability.

Weight and Packability

When heading out on a long hike or a trek, it’s important to keep your backpack weight to a minimum. A lightweight and packable jacket will be much easier to carry.

• A key criterion for long-distance trekking.
• Aim for under 500 g for ultralight models.

Fit and Comfort

The comfort of a jacket goes beyond just its fabric or breathability. A good fit ensures freedom of movement and allows for additional layers underneath. Features such as an adjustable hood, a cinched hem, and durable zips also contribute significantly to overall comfort.

• Good mobility, adjustable hood, snug hems.
• Compatible with other layers (fleece, technical t-shirt, etc.).

Durability and Robustness

Hiking jackets are exposed to abrasion from rocks and general wear over time. A tough fabric with reinforced shoulders is a real advantage, especially when carrying a backpack.

• Reinforcements on the shoulders or other high-wear areas.
• Taped seams, sturdy zips, ripstop fabric.

Multiple Pockets and an Adjustable Hood

Having multiple pockets allows you to keep essential items (gloves, map, GPS) within easy reach. An adjustable hood with a reinforced brim provides effective protection against wind and rain.

The Different Types of Hiking Jackets

Insulated Jackets (Synthetic or Down)

Insulated jackets are ideal for staying warm while hiking. They can be filled with either down or synthetic insulation, offering a great warmth-to-weight ratio.

Hybrid Jackets

This type of jacket combines multiple technologies, such as softshell and insulated materials, to provide a good balance of warmth, protection, and breathability.

Comparison Table of Different Types of Hiking Jackets

Which Jacket Is Best for Each Type of Hike?

The choice of a hiking jacket depends on several factors: the weather, the intensity of the activity, the duration of the outing, and the terrain. Here’s how to choose the right garment based on the climatic conditions and type of activity.

Summer Hiking and Hot Weather: Which Jacket Should You Choose?

In summer, the main challenge is avoiding overheating while staying protected from external elements like wind or a sudden shower. It’s essential to choose a jacket that is:

• lightweight,
• breathable (able to wick away perspiration effectively)

Softshell Jacket: A Great All-Rounder

The softshell is ideal for summer hikes because it:

• provides effective wind protection,
• offers light insulation (perfect for early mornings),
• and resists light rain thanks to its water-repellent finish.

Use case:
If you’re heading out on a morning hike in the Calanques in spring, with temperatures between 12°C and 20°C, a lightweight, windproof, water-repellent softshell is ideal. It will shield you from the sea breeze while remaining breathable on the climbs.

In Completely Clear Weather

An ultralight windbreaker may be sufficient. Opt for:

• ventilation zips under the arms to aid airflow,
• and highly breathable materials to avoid the sauna effect.

Don’t Forget UV Protection

Sun exposure can be intense, even at altitude. Some jackets feature technical UV-resistant fabrics, which block harmful rays while allowing good moisture management.

Summer Essentials

• A softshell or lightweight windbreaker.
• Excellent breathability to wick away body moisture.
• Effective protection from wind and moderate weather changes.
• UV-resistant fabrics recommended in the mountains or lowlands.

Use case:
On a three-day winter trek in the Hautes-Pyrénées at -10°C, a synthetic down jacket combined with a Gore-Tex hardshell will keep you warm and dry despite sleet and strong winds. Ventilation zips will be welcome during sustained climbs.

Day Hike vs Multi-Day Trekking

The choice of jacket also depends on the duration of your hike. The needs for a short walk differ from those of a multi-day self-sufficient trek.

Day Hike: Lightness and Simplicity

For a short outing, there’s no need to carry an ultra-technical jacket if the weather is stable. The goal is to stay light and mobile.

• Softshell: ideal for dry and mild conditions
• Lightweight hardshell: useful if showers are a possibility
• Ventilation and comfort: key if you're exerting yourself

For a day hike, a simple yet functional jacket is sufficient—provided you’ve checked the weather forecast carefully.

Multi-Day Trek: Technical Features, Packability, and Durability

On a multi-day trek, the demands are different. Weight becomes critical, as does material durability.

• Waterproof jacket with a membrane: reliable protection over several days
• Ultralight down jacket: for layering or wearing during breaks
• Packability: essential for saving space in your pack
• Durability: reinforced fabric to resist backpack friction and rough surfaces
• Functionality: ergonomic hood, waterproof zips, well-positioned pockets

On a trek, every gram counts. A lightweight, technical, and hard-wearing jacket is a strategic investment.

Use case:
For a 4-day trek in the Dolomites. Gore-Tex Active jackets stand out for their packability and thermal comfort during breaks, compared to more rigid traditional hardshells.

Key Takeaways by Duration

• Day hike: simplicity, comfort, and a lightweight jacket suited to the expected weather
• Multi-day trek: packable waterproof jackets + lightweight down jacket, built to withstand wear and varying conditions
• In all cases, choose a jacket that fits well and allows for easy layering

What to Avoid:
For a multi-day summer trek in the Alps, relying solely on a softshell jacket can be a mistake. In the face of several days of persistent light rain, it may saturate. It should be paired with a lightweight, packable hardshell for prolonged wet conditions.

Men’s and Women’s Jackets for a Perfect Fit

Hiking jackets are designed to provide maximum comfort and performance. Brands offer both unisex models as well as dedicated men’s and women’s versions to suit different body shapes. Whatever your preference, you’re sure to find the right fit in terms of size and even colour.