How to choose a hiking jacket?

How to choose a hiking jacket? A practical guide from outdoorweb.cz

Planning a trip into the countryside and wondering which jacket to buy? The right hiking jacket will keep you comfortable, protect you from the whims of the weather and add style. Read our brief overview to help you choose.

1. What do you need the jacket for?

When choosing a jacket, it’s crucial to be clear about what you’ll use it for. Are you looking for a lightweight windbreaker for summer trips, waterproof protection for rain, or something warm for the mountains? Your activity and environment are the key guides.

2. Key jacket features

• Waterproofness
  Waterproof jackets protect you from rain. Look for a hydrostatic head from 5,000 mm upwards. For longer hikes under a rucksack, 15,000 mm is ideal. A jacket with a high hydrostatic head is, for example, MAMBA by KILPI.
• Breathability
  The jacket must “breathe” to wick away sweat. For regular hiking, breathability of 10,000 g/m²/24 h is suitable; for demanding activities at least 20,000 g/m²/24 h. A jacket with high breathability is, for example, SKYLARK by HANNAH.
• Wind resistance
  If you’re planning activities in the mountains, you’ll appreciate jackets that protect you from cold wind. Models such as VARDAG by FJÄLLRÄVEN offer excellent wind protection.

3. Types of hiking jackets

• Ultralight windbreakers
  A great choice for quick trips or running. They weigh only a few grams and are easy to pack into a pocket. They protect you from wind and light rain, but they’re not enough for a heavy downpour. Great options in this case are CLIFF or FORTE models by WARMPEACE.
• Softshell jackets
  A versatile choice for mild conditions. They’re stretchy, wind-resistant and partially water-resistant. Suitable for most outdoor activities. If you want greater protection against rain, choose a softshell with a membrane. Brilliant softshell jackets include, for example, SHELTON models by HANNAH.
• Hardshell jackets (waterproof)
  Ideal protection against rain and wind. They’re durable and suitable as an outer layer. Two-layer models are cheaper; three-layer models are more durable and lighter. In this case we recommend GAMBOLA by HUSKY or the top-tier KEB ECO-SHELL jacket by FJÄLLRÄVEN.
• Insulated jackets
  Perfect for cold weather. Synthetic insulation resists moisture better; down insulation is lighter and warmer. Combine them with a hardshell jacket for maximum protection. A great choice at an excellent price are the men’s VERNON and women’s TACOMA models by WARMPEACE.

4. Which material should you choose?

• Membrane vs. coating
  Membranes (e.g. Gore-Tex) offer better waterproofness and breathability than coated jackets. However, a coating is a more economical choice for occasional trips.
• Water-repellent treatment
  Don’t forget that even the best material needs care. Use reproofing to help your jacket retain its properties.

5. Recommendations from outdoorweb.cz

Choose a jacket that matches your needs and activities. In our range you’ll find top models from global brands The North Face (men’s, women’s), Fjällräven (men’s, women’s), Mammut (men’s, women’s) and others. From Czech brands, we can especially recommend Kilpi (men’s, women’s), Hannah (men’s, women’s) or Husky (men’s, women’s). Whether you’re looking for an ultralight windbreaker, a warm insulated jacket, or a waterproof jacket, you’ll find the right one with us.

The best-selling hiking jacket models from our range are:

• QUEST JACKET by THE NORTH FACE - a jacket that offers great value and reliable protection against rain and wind.
• ANORAK NO. 8 by FJÄLLRÄVEN - a jacket designed to withstand demanding conditions in the forest and in the mountains all year round.
• GOLDIE by HANNAH - a leisure jacket in a trendy design and colours, ideal for the mountains, a day hike, travelling and leisure activities in the city.
• STEN JACKET by FJÄLLRÄVEN - a comfortable jacket made from durable G-1000 and G-1000 Lite materials, a practical garment for everyday wear that’s also great for the outdoors.
• PARKER JACKET 5.0 by PINGUIN - the jacket offers a lightweight, two-layer laminate with a hydrophilic membrane; all seams are taped, so it will protect you from rain and wind even on a demanding ascent.

🌟 TIP: Members of our VIP club get exclusive discounts and benefits!

We’ll be happy to advise you on choosing a jacket directly at outdoorweb.cz. Get ready for adventure – with the right jacket, you’ll be one step ahead on every expedition!