Exploration
Don't let rain get in the way of adventuring: here’s what to keep in your wardrobe so you're ready for inclement weather.
Have you got an adventure in mind, but want to make sure your kit is up to the task in case it rains? We don’t blame you, so we’ve had a scour around for some top kit picks to help you stay warm and dry when the heavens open.
Jacket
A quality outer layer is vital for staying dry in the wet and is understandably often the first priority when buying waterproof kit. The Kento jacket (or the Keiko for women) by Mammut is a great example of a jacket that not only manages to be resilient to the elements, but lightweight enough to pack away in your backpack too.
Constructed using a highly waterproof and breathable DRYtech fabric, it weighs just 400g and is able to stretch to your movements when out and about. An athletic cut including shaped sleeves, underarm ventilation and a fitted hood designed to resist gusty winds all make this a perfect jacket for the hillside.
Trousers
If you’re after a pair of trousers dedicate to outdoor pursuits in inclement weather, the Páramo Velez Adventure Trousers should be near the top of your shortlist. Instead of fitting over the top of your normal trousers, they are designed to be worn all day on their own through changeable conditions.
Central to the trousers’ performance is the Analogy Waterproof technology developed by garment care specialists Nikwax, which is said to overcome limitations in breathability in the coldest and wettest conditions experienced by other waterproof fabrics. You’ll also find a design that responds well to movement around the knee joint and additional ventilation via thigh zips and storm flaps, and ankle adjustment to help the trouser adapt to different activities.
Running shoes
Got a trail run in mind and want to make sure your feet stay dry? The Arc’teryx Norvan shoe could be for you, with a lightweight 660g construction and Gore-Tex fabrics used throughout to ensure they can resist water.
Those fabrics also guarantee high levels of breathability and a comfortable fit despite keeping water out thanks to Gore’s Invisible Fit technology, and the shoe is perfectly suited to running on challenging terrain with its Vibram Megagrip outer sole.
Hiking boots
On the other hand, you might be after a hardier boot designed for long hikes in the mountains. In that case, the AKU Alterra GTX is a strong candidate, complete with greater ankle support and asymmetric Elica outsole, which is said to help with weight distribution and foot roll on varying terrain. Goodbye, premature foot fatigue!
AKU also fits a Gore-Tex lining for optimal fit while allowing high levels of breathability and waterproofness – all the better for all-day comfort – while the Italian brand also had one eye on long-term use with a double density PU midsole to help it stand up to abrasion. An upper section constructed of an elastic material further reduces the potential for discomfort.
Backpack
A quality backpack is essential for transporting your equipment on weekend adventures, and you want it to keep those bits and pieces dry and secure. The Arc’teryx Bora AR 50 backpack features a handy 50L capacity in its standard size, with an extra 3L if you opt for the taller version – both perfect for two-to-three-day trips into the wilderness.
Key to a quality hiking backpack is its comfort and support on your back: the Bora backpack features the RotoGlide hipbelt that allows for a truly customisable fit while adjusting to your gait and stride. GridLock shoulder straps provide further adjustment in fit and comfort, with the hardwearing nylon body panels protected with Arcv’teryx’s AC² weatherproof fabric.
Mid-layer
How you choose to layer up in the wind and rain will depend on the temperature, but one thing we do know is that merino wool is a brilliant fabric for this purpose thanks to it’s excellent breathability. The Kjus Kian Technical Halfzip combines both merino wool and Fast//Wind windproof (and water resistant) lining to help keep essential warmth in without that ‘boil in the bag’ feeling.
The Kian Technical Halfzip tops are available in two formats – sleeveless and long-sleeved – which each provide core protection, with the long-sleeved version offering a little extra coverage for the arms. Free:Motion fabric technology allows the garment to stretch to the body – ideal for outdoor activities. Kjus also offer a range of technical halfzip mid-layers in a female-specific fit.
Base layer
Base layers are arguably the most important pieces of clothing you own, regardless of the conditions, and Dainese’s ‘All Weather Activity’ (AWA) top and bottom ensemble is a great option to wear under your waterproof and breathable outer layers. The long-sleeve top protects the entirety of the upper body, while the three-quarter length bottoms allow key coverage without interfering with the function of your technical socks.
They use a blend of 50 percent polyamide, 30 percent Dryarn and 20 percent merino wool to ensure they boast antibacterial and anti-odour properties, along with Micromesh panels in strategic areas to further improve breathability. Both are made using a seamless construction for maximum all-day comfort, and are available in male and female-specific fits.
