Rain jackets
Sometimes you just have to walk through the rain to get where you're going, but with a good rain jacket from Rains, Helly Hansen or Ilse Jacobsen, that's no problem. Curious what to look out for when buying one?
When is a rain jacket waterproof?
The waterproofness of a rain jacket is measured using a water column and its corresponding rating. A rain jacket with a waterproof rating of 3,000mm can withstand a light shower, and anything higher offers even better protection. However, with a jacket rated at 3,000mm, you shouldn't spend hours in the rain, as it may eventually start to leak. A rain jacket with a water column of 5,000mm or higher provides more assurance: these jackets are completely waterproof and resistant to high pressure.
What makes a good rain jacket?
A good rain jacket is waterproof. It's also great if the jacket is windproof too, so you're well protected against both rain and wind. Cheaper rain jackets are known to cause excessive sweating, but a good rain jacket is breathable and wicks away perspiration to keep your body dry and fresh.
Tip
If your rain jacket gets very wet, hang it up to dry, and it will be ready again in no time. Avoid hanging it over a heater, as this can cause the jacket's waterproof properties to fail.