Outdoor gear is designed to balance performance, price, sustainability, and durability. No jacket will keep you 100% dry all the time, so accepting that you'll occasionally feel wet will make your outdoor experiences much more enjoyable.
Often, when you’re hiking and start feeling wet, it’s not because your jacket is leaking but because it’s "wet out." Jackets are engineered to shield you from rain while letting sweat escape, but they can struggle if the breathable membrane becomes saturated. This membrane features tiny pores that allow water vapour to pass through but block rain. If the outer fabric’s durable water-repellent (DWR) coating wears off or the conditions are particularly harsh, you may still end up feeling damp.
This guide on how to stay dry when hiking will provide you with product recommendations for your base, mid, and outer layers, as well as general advice to keep you comfortable on the trail. We’ll also cover essential gear care tips to help you maintain your equipment and maximise its performance.
Anticipate the Weather
The simplest way to stay dry? Avoid the rain! Check detailed mountain weather forecasts (we rate Accuweather!) and adjust your plans if needed. Rain can be highly localised, so pay attention to wind direction and speed; this helps you gauge whether it's about to rain heavily or just pass briefly. Put your waterproofs on at the right moment—if in doubt, it's better to err on the side of caution, especially in cold, windy conditions. Remember, there's no prize for being the last to put your jacket on in a downpour.
Layer Wisely
Temperature regulation and keeping moisture away from your skin are key to staying comfortable. Multiple thin layers work best:
- Base Layer: Choose a breathable layer that wicks moisture away from your skin. Merino is ideal. Avoid cotton, which retains water. In winter, you could use the Farpointe Sun Cruiser (which can also be used as an Outer Layer in the Summer!).
- Mid Layer: Always carry a mid-layer, even in summer. Thin fleece works well in warmer months; grid fleece is especially breathable. In colder conditions, fleece helps buffer moisture, keeping it away from your skin. We would recommend the Outdoor Research Deviator hoodie or the Farpointe Alpha hoodie.
- Winter Layers: For winter, consider two mid-layers: a thin grid fleece beneath a warmer synthetic garment. A hooded fleece adds extra comfort, but watch for excessive bulk. We would recommend the Outdoor Research Foray 2 Goretex.
Start Cold: Begin hikes feeling slightly cool, as you'll warm up quickly. Avoid overheating to minimise sweating, and add a layer when you stop to retain heat.
Keep Spare Kit Dry
Pack spare layers in dry bags to keep them organised and protected from moisture. A pack cover can help in heavy rain, although it can catch the wind. On multi-day hikes, condensation is inevitable—keep spare gear in dry bags and avoid packing away a wet tent whenever possible.
Look After Your Gear
- Cleaning: Regular use means your jacket will need a wash to maintain performance. Use products like Nikwax Tech Wash or Granger’s Performance Wash, and always follow the care instructions on the garment’s label. Clean out residual cleaning products from your machine as some can harm waterproof membranes.
- Reproofing: If washing doesn’t restore breathability, it's time to reproof. Use products like Nikwax TX. Direct or Granger’s Performance Repel Plus. Follow the instructions carefully, whether you choose wash-in or spray-on treatments. Remember, reproofing isn't permanent; you'll need to repeat it periodically based on use.
