We've grouped our waterproof jackets into three categories — Everyday, Light Trail, and Outdoor Performance — to help you pick the right option based on your activity. Whether you need simple rain protection for daily wear or a high-tech shell for rugged mountain conditions, you don't always need the most advanced jacket. Choosing one that matches your specific use will keep you comfortable and dry without extra bulk or cost.
Your needs might fall into multiple categories or you might value certain features over others. If you need help selecting a jacket, get in touch and we'll point you in the right direction.
Which Waterproof Jacket is Right for You?
Everyday
A great choice if you're looking for reliable, no-fuss protection from light to moderate rain — perfect for commuting, walking the dog, or a Saturday family trail walk.
Everyday jackets usually feature a 2-layer construction, which keeps costs down while still offering solid waterproofing and a comfortable feel thanks to the soft inner lining. They're designed with daily life in mind and easy to wear, but keep in mind they can be heavier and less breathable than more technical jackets as they're not intended for high physical exertion.
Look out for- Comfortable or relaxed fit
- Adjustable hood, hem or cuffs
- Practical pockets
- Reflective details for road walking
Light Trail
If you're heading out for a few hours on the trails — think half-day hikes — you want a jacket that keeps you dry without slowing you down. Both 2-layer and 2.5-layer jackets work well here.
2-layer jackets offer more comfort and durability, great for steady-paced hikes where weight isn't your biggest concern. 2.5-layer jackets can be lighter and pack down smaller — but because they don't have a full inner lining, wear wicking base layers underneath to avoid feeling clammy.
For high-energy activity, breathability and ventilation (like underarm zips) become key — and it might be worth sacrificing a little on the waterproofing level.
Look out for- Lightweight
- Packable
- Adjustable hood, hem and cuffs
- Taped seams
- Underarm zips — for extra airflow and ventilation
Outdoor Performance
Built for tougher conditions — seasoned mountain hikers, professionals, and anyone spending long days outdoors in potentially harsh, changeable weather.
3-layer designs offer top-tier performance thanks to their durable bonded construction and advanced fabrics like Gore-Tex. These provide high levels of waterproofing and breathability built to withstand heavy rain, snow, and strong winds. Expect waterproof zips, helmet-compatible hoods, underarm zips, and reinforced panels for use with backpacks or climbing gear.
2-layer jackets in this section also offer great protection at a more accessible price point — built for when the weather's at its worst and you need gear that won't let you down.
Look out for- Durability
- High waterproofing level
- Full adjustability — hood, hem, cuffs
- Underarm zips — increased ventilation
- Waterproof zips
- Reinforced fabric in pressure areas
- RECCO reflector
The Techy Bit
Understanding things like waterproof ratings, breathability, and seam taping will give you a clearer idea of why certain jackets are designed for everyday use while others are built for mountain conditions.
How waterproof do I need my jacket to be?
It depends on your activity and how long you could be out in the rain. A jacket used for the school run or dog walks doesn't need the same waterproofing as one you'll spend 6 hours in, up a mountain in lashing rain.
How is waterproofing measured? (Hydrostatic Head)
Hydrostatic Head (HH) measures how much water pressure a fabric can handle before it starts to let water through — expressed in millimetres (e.g. 10,000mm). The higher the rating, the more waterproof the garment. The minimum for a fabric to be considered waterproof in Ireland/UK is 1,500mm.
How breathable will my waterproof jacket be?
Hikers in Ireland often face mild, damp conditions where it's too warm for a waterproof jacket during activity, yet too wet to go without one. Jackets can feel clammy inside — but that's not necessarily a breathability failure. It may be your body overheating and moisture needing more time to escape. Try the same jacket on a cold, wet day and you'll notice how well it actually breathes.
How is breathability measured? (MVTR)
Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate (MVTR) measures how breathable a fabric is — expressed as how many grams of water vapour can pass through a square metre of fabric in 24 hours (e.g. 20,000g/m²). The larger the number, the more breathable the fabric.
How can I maximise breathability?
- Wear appropriate wicking layers under your jacket to prevent overheating.
- Find the right balance between waterproofing and breathability for your activity — higher waterproofing can sometimes mean lower breathability.
What is DWR and do I need to reapply it?
DWR (Durable Water Repellent) is a treatment applied to the face fabric that causes water to bead up and roll off. It helps maintain breathability because water doesn't sit on the membrane. Over time, DWR wears off and needs to be refreshed — usually by washing the garment with a specialist treatment like Grangers.
What's the difference between waterproof and water resistant?
Waterproof jackets use a membrane or inner coating along with seam-sealing, storm guards, or waterproof zips to ensure rain cannot get in. They will give you a hydrostatic head rating and are also windproof.
- Sealed/taped seams — covers the tiny holes made by the sewing needle so they don't leak, either fully or in high-exposure areas.
- Storm guards — extra waterproof fabric covering zippers.
Water resistant jackets only have a DWR coating on the face fabric and are good for light showers only — not for more intense or sustained rain.
What other features should I consider?
- Waterproof zippers (YKK Aquaguard/Vislon) — note that waterproof pocket zips are never fully guaranteed; condensation or an open zip can let water in.
- Reinforced waterproofing or face fabric at pressure points (shoulders, knees, hips).
- Hood — is it adjustable, helmet-compatible, or does it have a stiffened peak?
- Underarm zips — for extra airflow and ventilation.
- Pockets — chest, hand, or internal.
- Adjustability — hood, hem, cuffs.
Jacket Construction: 2L, 2.5L & 3L
All waterproof jackets are built from the same three layers — it's how they're bonded together that determines weight, breathability, and price.
The Three Layers
- Face fabric — Not waterproof itself. Protects the membrane and gives the jacket its look. Treated with DWR so it doesn't soak up water.
- Membrane — The laminate or coating that keeps the jacket waterproof, preventing rain getting in while allowing sweat vapour to escape.
- Backer / lining — A scrim or mesh bonded to the inner surface for comfort and to protect the membrane.
3-Layer (3L)
Face fabric, membrane, and backer are all bonded together. Rugged face fabrics without excessive bulk or weight. Found in high-spec performance jackets.
2-Layer (2L)
Face fabric and membrane bonded together, finished with a loose mesh or fabric lining. More comfortable but bulkier. The mesh liner prevents excessive condensation build-up.
2.5-Layer (2.5L)
Face fabric and membrane bonded together with a thin printed protective layer inside instead of a full lining. Super lightweight and packable. Wear wicking layers underneath.
Waterproof Technologies
The world's leading waterproof and breathable fabric technology. Based on a bicomponent membrane, it's designed for prolonged use in foul weather with proven excellent breathability. Used in Mountain Equipment, Berghaus, Rab, and Sprayway — the go-to for harsh weather on rough terrain.
A waterproof, windproof fabric that's highly breathable, lightweight, and packable. Used in Rab garments.
With an ultralight two-layer construction, HydroShell keeps you drier for longer while letting air flow freely. Used in Berghaus garments — durable, waterproof, and breathable.
Columbia's Omni-Tech™ and Outdry™ waterproof-breathable technologies deliver versatile protection in volatile conditions with multi-layered construction that sheds water and wind while keeping you dry and comfortable. Columbia offers different versions of each technology (e.g. Omni-Tech Eco, Outdry Extreme).
Helly Hansen's HellyTech® is waterproof, windproof, and breathable — designed to keep you dry and comfortable in harsh weather. It comes in three tiers: HellyTech Protection (everyday), HellyTech Performance (active outdoor), and HellyTech Professional (extreme conditions). Each uses a layered system that repels water while allowing moisture to escape.
Waterproof Garment Care
Caring for your waterproof jacket helps maintain its water-repellent finish and breathability. Over time, dirt and oils clog the fabric's pores and reduce effectiveness. Regular cleaning and reproofing extend the life of your jacket — saving you money and reducing waste.
Always follow the label care instructions on your specific garment. As a general guide for most waterproof jackets:
- Close all zips and fastenings before washing.
- Machine wash on a full-length gentle cycle at 30°C.
- Use a waterproof-specific detergent like Grangers Performance Wash, or a non-biological detergent if necessary.
- Do not use fabric softeners or bleach.
- Tumble dry on low to reactivate the DWR coating.
- Do not iron.
- Do not dry clean.
If you need any help picking a waterproof jacket or trousers, give us a call on 066 712 6644 or email hello@landers.ie — we're happy to help.
