How to Choose the Right Hiking Jacket
Choosing the Right Hiking Jacket There are a number of items of gear you'll own for the great outdoors that are more important than others. For a trekking expedition to the Himalayas, a monsoon hike, or even a simple weekend stroll along the trails, the right hiking jacket will keep you safe and snug against the elements as well as ensure you are as comfortable as possible throughout your hike.
So how can you choose the correct hiking jacket?
What Is The Best Hiking Jacket?
You have probably heard about lots of wonderful hiking jackets. However, what may be best for some can actually be totally useless to others. Therefore, you need to understand which hiking jacket will be right for you. To make your choice as accurately as possible, try to answer a few of the following questions: Will the hiking trip involve rain or wind?
Will I be hiking in warm weather, or would I consider trekking to be winter-based?
Do I want to carry my hiking jacket within my backpack? Your answer will be essential to selecting the appropriate hiking jacket for your trip. How To Choose A Hiking Jacket According to The Weather For Rain & Monsoon Hiking Trips For wet conditions, you should opt for a water-proof hiking jacket.
Ideally look for: Water-proof material that is still breathable, Seam-sealed to provide better waterproofing and reliability, adjustable and hooded zip fasteners and, a jacket that is not too heavy or difficult to stow away in your backpack. This lightweight rain hiking jacket is incredibly effective in the monsoon months when wet weather can strike unexpectedly, making this piece of kit indispensable. For Winter Treks If you want to embark on more wintry adventures, look out for the following features on your jacket: Insulation to provide thermal protection, protection from wind to maintain your body temperature and a good adjustable and, hooded hood.
Furthermore, there must be sufficient space under your jacket to allow you to add layering for further thermal protection.
For Mild Weather Conditions Lightweight walking jackets or windcheaters are generally suitable for moderate weather conditions. These types of jacket not only make light work of being carried inside your backpack, but they are also very breathable. The ideal choice if the weather is expected to change gradually throughout the day or if you simply need to pull on an extra layer.
Why Is Breathability so Important?
Waterproof jackets not only keep water out – but they keep water from coming out from the inside too.
Moisture can escape in vapour, allowing your body to maintain an equilibrium temperature as you hike uphill. Make sure your chosen jacket includes breathable fabrics, vents (pit-zips or through the back) and moisture-wicking technologies for enhanced comfort and, performance, whether you are trekking up mountains or hiking across the valley floor. Key Features of A Hiking Jacket Look for the following on a hiking jacket to get the best performance from your buy: Waterproof & adjustable and hooded zip closures, waterproof zips on all compartments, pockets securely fitted (with zips), drawstrings at cuff and hem, High Collar, Water & wind resistant &, lightweight & packable design.
Why Is a Lightweight Hiking Jacket Recommended?
A Lightweight hiking jacket will contribute less to the weight of your pack, and it may easily be stuffed away when not being used. The use of a lightweight jacket contributes to efficient layer and will ensure that no matter where you are hiking, that weight will remain to a minimal level.
Is a waterproof Hiking jacket important?
Yes, especially if you plan to hike in the rainy or monsoon season. It will not only keep you warm and snug, but it will also keep you from suffering through hypothermia.
What Jacket can be used for both year round?
Most waterproof jackets will perform reasonably well for every season but you will probably want something more insulating and warming to wear during winter trekking.
