Hiking jackets and coats
From waterproof shells to down jackets, fleeces to softshells, the right hiking jacket depends on the job it has to do, and most walkers need more than one. This hub breaks down every type of hiking jacket and coat, then points you to the full buying guides and reviews for each, so you can find the right layer for the British hills.
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The main types of hiking jacket and coat
Hiking jacket is a broad term, and the right one depends entirely on the job you need it to do. A waterproof keeps the rain out, a fleece or insulated jacket keeps you warm, and a softshell keeps you comfortable on cold, dry, active days. Most walkers end up owning more than one, because these are different tools for different problems. Here is how the categories break down, with a link to the full guide for each.
Waterproof jackets and hardshells
The one piece British weather will always test. A waterproof jacket, or hardshell, keeps sustained rain out while letting some sweat escape, and it is the layer you pack whenever rain is on the cards. For waterproof ratings, membranes, jacket construction and the models we rate, see our best waterproof jackets guide.
Insulated and down jackets
Warmth for when you stop moving, or for cold, static days. Down gives the best warmth for its weight, while synthetic insulation keeps working when damp, which suits the British climate. Our Rab insulated jackets guide explains down versus synthetic and ranks the field.
Fleeces and midlayers
The layer between your baselayer and your shell, and the one you wear most. A grid fleece breathes on the move, while a heavier fleece adds warmth at rest. See the best hiking fleeces guide for how to choose.
Softshells and windshells
Breathable, stretchy jackets for cold, dry or drizzly days. A softshell sheds showers and blocks wind but wets out in real rain, while a windshell is an ultralight wind layer that packs down to almost nothing. Both are active layers rather than a replacement for a proper waterproof, and many walkers carry one alongside a shell.
Shopping by brand
If you are shopping by brand, our range guides decode the confusing bits. The Arc'teryx jackets explained guide untangles the Beta, Atom and Alpha naming, and for the brand stories and whether they are worth the money, see our spotlights on Arc'teryx, Rab and Mammut.
Which jacket do you actually need?
For most UK hillwalkers the core kit is three jackets: a waterproof shell for the rain, a fleece or synthetic midlayer for warmth on the move, and an insulated jacket for when you stop. Add a softshell or windshell if you do a lot of cold, dry, high-output days. Start with the waterproof, because that is the layer that turns a miserable day into a manageable one.
Waterproof construction explained
| Construction | Waterproofing | Breathability | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-layer | Good | Moderate | Everyday and budget waterproofs |
| 2.5-layer | Good | Good, packs very small | Lightweight and fast day hiking |
| 3-layer | Excellent | Excellent | Mountain use, high output and durability |
Frequently asked questions
Is 10,000mm hydrostatic head enough for hiking?+
Yes, 10,000mm is a workable minimum for UK hiking and will handle steady rain, but 15,000mm is a safer target for regular hillwalking. Aim for 20,000mm or more for exposed mountain days, as pack straps and bent knees press wet fabric against you and force water through lower ratings.
What is the difference between 2-layer, 2.5-layer and 3-layer jackets?+
The number describes the fabric build around the membrane. A 2-layer jacket has a separate hanging liner and suits casual use. A 2.5-layer jacket adds a thin printed coating instead, making it the lightest and most packable. A 3-layer jacket bonds everything into one fabric, giving the best durability and breathability for serious hiking.
How often should I reproof a waterproof jacket?+
Reproof a waterproof jacket every 6 to 12 months with regular use, or whenever water stops beading and starts soaking into the outer fabric. Wash it clean first, apply a wash-in or spray-on reproofer such as Nikwax TX.Direct, then tumble dry on low to reactivate the finish.
Can you wash a waterproof jacket in a washing machine?+
Yes, but use a technical cleaner such as Nikwax Tech Wash, never standard detergent or fabric softener, which clog the membrane and ruin the DWR. Close all zips, wash warm on a gentle cycle with an extra rinse, then tumble dry on low to restore water repellency.
Why does my waterproof jacket feel wet inside?+
Usually it is not leaking, it is wetting out. When the DWR treatment wears off, the outer fabric soaks up water and stops breathing, so your sweat condenses inside and feels like a leak. Reproof and reactivate the DWR with low heat, and open the pit zips on climbs to vent moisture.
What is the difference between a hardshell and softshell jacket?+
A hardshell is fully waterproof with a taped membrane and is what you pack for the hill when rain is likely. A softshell is stretchy, breathable and only water-resistant, so it sheds showers and wind but wets out in sustained rain. Softshells make good active layers, not a waterproof replacement.
Do I need a Gore-Tex jacket for hiking in the UK?+
No, Gore-Tex is dependable but not essential. Membranes such as eVent, Pertex Shield and brand-own laminates like Patagonia's H2No perform comparably and often cost less. What matters is a 15,000mm-plus rating, fully taped seams and breathability suited to your pace, not the logo on the chest.
Should a waterproof jacket be a size bigger?+
Not necessarily, but it must fit over your layers. A waterproof is a shell worn over a base and mid-layer, so you should be able to add a fleece and raise both arms overhead without the hem lifting. If it feels tight over insulation or restricts your reach, size up one.