Every adventure starts with desire, followed by the right equipment. With extended periods outdoors, you will likely face varied conditions. Taking a chance with gear that does not offer you protection from these conditions, can make your outdoor time miserable.
A dependable jacket is important as it will keep you warm, dry and comfortable throughout. So it's worth taking the time to choose the right one.
So how do you pick the right jacket? Let’s break it down
Know your activity
Different outdoor activities have different needs. Here's what to look for based on what you'll be doing:
For Climbing
For climbers, versatility is an important feature to have in a jacket. You may start your climb with temperate weather. As you get higher in elevation, the air gets thinner and colder, the wind gets stronger and in some cases, you may start to encounter snow.
A jacket for a climbing expedition should have good insulation to keep you warm as the temperatures drop. It should also protect you from the wind.
Your climbing jacket also needs to be relatively lightweight. If you are pulling yourself up a steep elevation, you don’t want anything weighing you down unnecessarily. A lighter hardshell should be a part of your gear.
Make sure your climbing jacket gives you plenty of room to move your arms freely.
It’s also important to understand mountain conditions:
- Afternoon rains are common in mountain environments - plan for daily rainfall
- Higher altitudes often have wet, boggy terrain
- Weather can change rapidly, especially as you gain elevation.
For Regular Trail Hiking
When selecting jackets for hiking, look for lightweight options. Because you will be walking extensively, you don’t want a bulky jacket on your back or in your bag.
When hiking, always consider the weather you’ll be dealing with during the day, to decide on how much warmth you’ll need.
Something that becomes very important when hiking is a waterproof jacket. Trails often include water features such as creeks, waterfalls. When you hike through dense forests, there is also a chance the vegetation will be wet. You can quickly become soaked if your jacket isn’t a waterproof material.
Hoods are important features for hiking jackets as well since they keep rain out of your eyes.
For Camping
Camping all about staying warm, so the best jacket for you will be big on insulation.
Look for multiple layers that make sure body heat stays in while keeping the cold, rain, and wind out.
When you look for a camping jacket, consider the conditions at your site both during the day and during the night. The most beautiful places to explore often have drastic temperature drops once the sun goes down. You should have a jacket to handle both ends of the spectrum.
For Running
For runners, prioritize lightweight, breathability, and wind resistance.
A light jacket with an articulated fit (designed with features that mimic the natural shape and movement of the human body), is valuable as it allows for full range of motion. Opt for a shorter length jacket so it doesn’t constrict any parts of your hips or legs.
Deep pockets are not ideal for a running jacket,as the items inside could bounce as you run and become a distraction.
Something you may not have considered is noise. Think back to vintage tracksuits and windbreakers that were made of Nylon and made a “swish” sound with every motion. When you get into the zone during a run, that noise is not what you want to hear.
Not only should the actual fabric be quiet, but there should not be any flaps or fasteners that rattle or jingle as you run.
For Everyday Use Multi Use
A high quality jacket is a great investment for everyday activities. Our jackets offer practicality but also have sleek designs that can be worn with your office, travel and casual wear, without looking out of place. They provide protection from the elements and are available in bold colors. See our Everyday Jackets here.
Consider the Weather
It's important to know the weather conditions you might face. This could include wind, rain, a mix of sun and showers, or mild conditions. Each of these conditions require different protection.
Will you need warmth, protection from the elements, or a jacket that combines warmth and weather protection all in one.
Your jacket should match these conditions, keeping rain and cold air off your skin and allowing sweat to escape to keep you comfortable.
Other Features to Consider
- Weight: Is it suitable for your activity level?
- Movement: Can you move freely?
- Comfort: Does it feel good while you're active?
Making Your Choice
Remember that the best jacket for you depends on how you'll use it. Think about:
- What activities you'll be doing
- What weather conditions you'll face
- How long you'll be outdoors
- What temperatures you need to prepare for
Don't take chances with low-quality gear. A good jacket is an investment in your safety and enjoyment outdoors.