With the current climate, I imagine many of you have put your current waterproofs to the test and found that they aren’t actually keeping you dry. In this Ultimate Waterproofs Guide we discuss what to look for and recommend some brands.
Rain can turn even the most scenic nature walk into a soggy slog — unless you have waterproof gear you can trust. This guide tells you exactly what to look for in waterproofs and highlights proven performers that keep you bone dry in awful wet weather.
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.”
Whilst maybe not always true as we’ve seen our fair share of what can only be described as bad weather recently… the right clothing definitely helps!
What do walking waterproofs need?
Waterproof gear for walking has a tricky job:
- They must block persistent rain
- Stay light enough to move comfortably
- Be breathable during steady effort
- Pack down easily when not in use
Heavy-duty workwear might keep rain out — but it quickly becomes uncomfortable, sweaty, and tiring on longer walks. For outdoor adventures, technical fabrics and smart design matter more than brute thickness.
What Makes Waterproof Gear Truly Waterproof
When choosing waterproof trousers and outerwear, these features matter most:
High Waterproof Rating:
Look for fabrics with a high hydrostatic head (e.g., 20,000 mm+) — this means they resist heavy, continuous rain. Lesser ratings are ok for light showers but won’t fend off prolonged downpours.
Breathability:
A waterproof fabric is only useful if it doesn’t trap sweat inside. Breathable membranes help vapour escape, keeping you comfortable on long walks.
(Breathability ratings of 10,000 g/m²/24h or higher)
Fully Taped Seams & DWR Finish:
Sealed seams and a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment prevent water from seeping through stitching or clinging to the surface.
Easy On/Off Design:
Features like full-length side zips on waterproof trousers let you put them on while wearing boots — a huge plus when weather turns without warning.
A Hard-Truth
Now these features in waterproofs unfortunately don’t come cheap but this is a product that you don’t want to skimp out on. The price tends to reflect vigorous testing and likely strong durability.
The more you spend the longer they should last you. Yes there are budget options but I would recommend spending the money now rather than spending a smaller amount every 6 months or more.
Trusted Waterproof Brands and Gear for Walking Adventures
Stormline Brand Waterproof Jackets & Trousers
Stormline offer waterproof gear designed to handle rough weather without unnecessary bulk.
For walking-specific use, their lighter technical ranges stand out:
- Waterproof yet more flexible than traditional storm gear
- Good wind resistance for exposed ridges and coastal paths
- Cut to allow movement, layering, and long wear
While Stormline also produce heavier marine gear, their lighter outdoor-focused pieces are ideal for walkers who want confidence in foul weather without overheating.
Bushbuck Defender Waterproof Wet Weather Pants
Crafted to shield you from the harshest outdoor elements, making them the ultimate choice for any outdoor enthusiast. These tactical pants boast Bushbuck’s cutting-edge Stormarc technology. The adjustable waist belt and articulated knee ensure maximum mobility and freedom of movement.
Why walkers like them:
- A three-layer technical fabric that offers unparalleled protection against wind, rain, and rugged terrain
- Waterproof rating of 10,000mm
- Fully seam-sealed construction and DWR treatment
- Windproof shell
- A gusseted crotch provides extra reinforcement and breathability
- Full-length zips on each leg enable easy removal over boots
Lalors Waterproof Trousers
Lalors are a fairly new company that have been aimed at equestrians but they are being used in all countryside life. I have included them in here as a personal recommendation after seeing so many brilliant reviews.
They have been designed to keep you bone dry and have a raised back to stop run off from your coat down your legs. They are also made in partnership with Stormline.
Why walkers like them:
- 420D Ripstop laminated nylon, polyester and PU lining
- Waterproof rating at 25,000mm
- Breathability rating at 10,000g/m2
- Adjustable elastic waist
- Hard wearing zipped gusset for fitting over boots
- Multi domes for fastening on the ankle
- Unisex
The reviews for these trousers are brilliant. They’re a strong choice if you regularly walk in exposed, wet landscapes and want waterproofs that don’t give up halfway through the day. Plus you would be supporting an independent company.
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket
A favourite among outdoor walkers and hikers, the Torrentshell 3L combines reliable waterproof performance with a 3-layer breathable build that stands up well in steady rain. It’s light enough to carry on long walks and robust enough for multi-day adventures. Its classic design and quality construction make it a go-to choice for year-round wet weather protection.
Specifications:
- Recycled Waterproof/Breathable Face
- Standard 3-layer shell provides comfort and performance
- Long-term waterproof durability
- Adjustable Hood
- Lined Neck provides comfort and protects with a waterproof/breathable barrier
- Two hand-warmer pockets
Men’s Decathlon waterproof mountain hiking jacket, MH500
Start your mountain walk confident you’ll be dry and comfortable in this lightweight hiking jacket. Waterproof, breathable and with a hood, it’s been designed for the seasoned hiker.
Specifications:
- 3-layer membrane
- Waterproof rating at 20,000 mm
- Very lightweight
- Breathable
- Anatomic design
- Smart waterproof pockets
- Windproof
This jacket offers the ideal protection to keep you prepared for changing weather conditions! Rigorously tested in the laboratory, it can withstand 18 cm of rain in 2 hours, reproducing the conditions of an average storm in the mountains.
Women’s Diverging II Mountain Panelled Hooded Hiking Waterproof Jacket
Built for serious mountain use, the women’s shell jacket from Dare 2b features ARED 35/35 technology for advanced waterproof and breathable protection.
Pro-level waterproof performance:
- Waterproof rating at 35,000mm
- 35,000 g/m²/24h breathability rating
- Stretch Fabric
- Articulated Sleeves
- Taped Seams
- Windproof
- Two hand-warmer pockets
This is a proper jacket that is built specifically for mountain adventures in wet/ windy weather.
Good waterproofs are one of the most important investments you can make for walking and outdoor adventures. With trusted brands designed for real-world conditions, wet weather becomes something you plan for, not something that stops you heading out.
Invest in waterproofs you trust, and you’ll walk further, more comfortably, and with far less worry when the forecast looks anything but inviting.
Take a look at our other posts here: