Best Rain Jackets in Australia 2026 (Buying Guide)

The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is our pick for the best all-round rain jacket for Australian hiking, balancing waterproof protection, durability and useful pit zips at a reasonable price. But no single jacket suits every Aussie adventure. A humid Queensland trail run demands something different from a few soaking days in Tasmania. Drawing on staff and ambassador experience alongside product specifications, we’ve selected eight rain jackets from the Wild Earth range to help you find the right balance of protection, ventilation, weight and budget.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology’s late-September long range forecast, conditions heading into summer are expected to vary across the country. From October to December, WA, ACT are more likely to receive above-average rainfall. Temperatures are also expected to be above average across most of the country, making breathability and ventilation especially important when choosing a rain jacket for Australian conditions.

Rain jackets at Wild Earth can range from around $100 to well over $1,000, and each of them is appropriate for certain activities and weather. It basically all comes down to choosing the right level of protection for the conditions you'll actually face out there in the wild. No one jacket suits all Aussie adventures. A humid Queensland trail run is going to demand something very different from a few soaking days on Tasmania’s Three Capes Track or taking an overseas trip to Everest Base Camp.

For most hikers, the sweet spot is a breathable 3-layer waterproof shell with good ventilation, while trail runners and fastpackers usually prefer a much lighter and more breathable shell. In this guide, we’ve selected the best rain jackets for Australian conditions across a variety of different disciplines, from multi-day thru-hiking and bikepacking to alpine adventures.

 

How to Choose a Rain Jacket at a Glance

• Choose a lightweight shell if you're trail running, fastpacking or counting grams and prioritising minimum pack weight.
• Choose a versatile 3-layer shell for general hiking, travel and outdoor use.
• Choose a tougher technical shell for places like Tasmania, alpine environments, exposed conditions and prolonged rainfall.
• Prioritise pit zips and breathability if you're hiking hard in warmer or humid conditions.
• Prioritise durability over minimum weight if you're carrying a heavy pack or regularly pushing through dense bush.

 

Top Wild Earth Picks: Rain Jackets Compared

*scroll across if you're on mobile

* Men’s weight used for consistency. Product specifications can vary by size and model update. RRP prices are in Australian dollars; actual selling prices may vary.

 

How We Chose the Best Rain Jackets

Our picks combine feedback from Wild Earth's Outdoor Gear Specialists, Team and Ambassador experience and Customer Favourites as well as current product features and specs. We’ve taken into account waterproofing, breathability, ventilation, durability, weight and stashability too.

Where our team has personally used a jacket, we've included that experience. Product specifications were checked against current Wild Earth and manufacturer information in September 2026.

 

Best Overall Rain Jacket: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L

Best for: Hiking, travel and all-round general outdoor use. Pairs well with Patagonia Torrentshell rain pants 3L.

Why it wins: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is a clear staff and ambassador favourite, it’s one of the most popular jackets we sell because it hits a sweet spot between weather protection, durability and style with a fantastic price point. If you want one rain jacket for hiking, travel and general outdoor use, the Torrentshell 3L is an easy choice. It's especially good for hikers who value durability and versatility over chasing the lowest possible weight. This jacket also pairs well with the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L pants. 

Key specs

• Weight: 400g (men's)
• Construction: 3-layer H2No® Performance Standard
• Face fabric: 50D recycled nylon ripstop
• Ventilation: Pit zips
• Packability: Stuffs into its own pocket

 

 

The Torrentshell is the jacket we'd point most people towards if they want one dependable waterproof shell that can do a bit of everything. Its 3-layer construction provides solid protection when the weather turns, while the 50D face fabric is tough enough for regular hiking and carrying a backpack and pit zips are a welcome addition when you're working hard uphill, especially in warmer Australian conditions.

At 400g, it's not the lightest jacket here but that's a fair trade-off for a super tough, versatile shell.

“The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is my ultimate rain companion and it’s like having a personal umbrella that fits into my backpack. Whether it’s a drizzle or full-on downpour, this jacket keeps me dry whilst still being breathable and not making me overheat like some rain jackets do. I’ve taken this jacket on many trips and hikes and it has never let me down! I think everyone needs one of these rain jackets in their kit.” - Wild Earth Ambassador Sara Keith

 

Sara Keith wearing the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket in the Western Arthur Range

 

What we like:

• Reliable 3-layer construction
• Useful pit zips
• Strong sustainability option, with a recycled nylon face fabric, PFAS-free membrane/finishes and Fair Trade Certified sewing
• Durable enough for regular hiking
• Packs into its own pocket
• Comfortable enough for everyday use

Things to consider:

• Heavier than ultralight options
• Fastpackers and runners may prefer something lighter

Shop Patagonia Torrentshell 3L: Men's | Women's

Shop Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Waterproof Pants: Men’s | Women’s

 

Best for Trail Running: Salomon Bonatti Waterproof

Best for: Trail running and fast-moving adventures

Why it wins: Join us at one of our Sunset Slice community runs and you’ll see a lot of runners repping this jacket on a rainy run. The Salomon Bonatti Waterproof is built for runners and hikers who don't want bad weather to stop them getting out on the trails. At around 200g, it's light, packable and designed for speed. So, whether you're heading out for a rainy early morning run or spending hours on the trail, this jacket is one to reach for.

Key specs

• Weight: 200g (men's)
• Waterproofing: 10,000mm
• Breathability: 10,000g/m²
• Packability: Packs into its own hand pocket
• Extras: 360° reflective detailing

Unlike the Patagonia Torrentshell, the Bonatti takes a more minimalist design approach. The lightweight construction is specifically built for mobility, breathability and packability. The two zipped hand pockets give it some everyday practicality, back vents keep it breathable while the adjustable hem helps keep rain out when conditions get bad.

“The Salomon Bonatti Mens Waterproof Running Jacket is pound for pound the best waterproof jacket on the market in my opinion (weighing ONLY 198g).

The Bonatti has accompanied me on adventures ranging from ultramarathons like the Tarawera NZ, Wild Earth's Unbroken Team Marathon, and even my country spanning thru-hike on the Continental Divide Trail in the US's Rocky Mountains.

This rain jacket really stood out on my recent cycle to Melbourne through the Snowy Mountains, where I was persistently battered with freezing rain, hail, snow, and gale-force winds (sometimes all at once). Its standout feature is how incredibly light and comfortable it is, adding a feeling of freedom and ease to your movement that can often be restricted by more cumbersome jackets. Although this jacket has decent ventilation, the absence of armpit zips or another more serious form of natural ventilation stops this from being the perfect jacket.

The Bonatti is the ideal jacket for runners and trail runners alike who want the best and lightest gear on the market. Gram counting hikers and bike-packers should follow suit with this easy and lasting purchase.” - Wild Earth Ambassador and author at Challenge & Beauty, Reid Marshall

 

Reid Marshall wearing his Salomon Bonatti while Thru-Hiking the CDT

What we like:

• Lightweight at around 200g
• Designed specifically for running
• Packs into its own pocket
• 360° reflective details
• Simple, practical design

Things to consider:

• 10K waterproofing is better suited to running than prolonged severe weather
• More technical shells offer greater protection for alpine and multi-day trips

Shop Salomon Bonatti Waterproof: Men's | Women's

 

Best Ultralight Rain Jacket: Mont Lightspeed

Best for: Ultralight hiking, fastpacking and high-output adventures

Why it wins: Weighing in at just 165g for the men's and 135g for the women's, the Mont Lightspeed packs some impressive protection into a seriously lightweight shell. It's built for moving fast (trail runners and fastpackers love it!), with a minimalist design and highly breathable 3-layer fabric that won't take up much room in your pack.

Key specs

• Weight: 165g men's / 135g women's
• Construction: Hydronaute Ultra 3-layer
• Waterproofing: 20,000mm
• Breathability: 48,000g/m²/24hrs
• Zips: YKK AquaGuard
• Hood: Adjustable with laminated visor

Australian brand Mont, have designed the Lightspeed rain jacket primarily for fast-moving adventures like running, cycling and hiking where mobility matters. The Hydronaute Ultra fabric is fully seam sealed, windproof and highly breathable, making it a great option when you're working hard in wet conditions.

There aren't many extras here, and that's why a lot of our community like it. It's a minimalist streamlined shell for people who care about weight and packability more than pockets and heavy-duty features.

"I got the jacket just before Cape to Cape Ultra in WA, a 100-mile coastal race from Cape Leeuwin in Augusta to Cape Naturaliste in Dunsborough. The weather was brutal; heavy rain and strong wind through the night, and the jacket kept me dry and warm. That was probably the wildest weather I’ve raced in!
 

It’s lightweight and packs down small, so it lives in my hydration pack on pretty much every long trail run. It also meets the 10,000mm waterproof requirement used by major ultra events, like Ultra Series WA, UTMB, etc, along with the features you need for race gear checks, such as taped seams and an integrated hood. For me, that gives peace of mind knowing it can stay in my pack until I genuinely need it. Breathability is always a challenge with waterproof jackets, especially when running, but I find this one gives a good balance. For ultras and hiking, where you’re generally moving slower than road running, the ventilation is enough to keep me comfortable. I also bought one size larger than my usual jacket because I like wearing it over my hydration pack. It fits well that way and keeps my phone and other gear dry too." - Wild Earth Ambassador and Athlete Jagpawan Dhillon

 

Jagpawan finishing the Cape To Cape Ultra Race wearing the Mont Lightspeed.

What we like:

• Exceptionally light for a 3-layer shell
• Impressive breathability
• Fully seam sealed
• Packs down small
• Australian brand

Things to consider:

• Minimalist compared with heavier hiking shells
• Not our first choice for regular use with a heavy backpack

Shop Mont Lightspeed: Men's | Women's

 

Best Technical All-Rounder: Arc'teryx Beta Jacket

Best for: Hiking, travel and more technical adventures

Why it wins: The Arc'teryx Beta Waterproof Jacket is a seriously versatile shell for people who want reliable protection without getting into full alpine-jacket territory. It’s made our Gear of the Year list multiple times and many of our staff and ambassadors have this in their adventure kit for adventures big and small.

Key specs

• Weight: 375g (men's)
• Construction: 3-layer GORE-TEX ePE
• Face fabric: Durable 80D nylon
• Backer: GORE C-KNIT™
• Hood: Adjustable StormHood™
• Extras: RECCO® reflector

 

What we like:

• Tough 80D face fabric
• Comfortable C-KNIT backer
• Excellent all-round versatility
• Adjustable StormHood
• RECCO reflector

Things to consider:

• Premium price
• Lighter options exist if pack weight is your main priority
• No pit zips for extra ventilation (you’ll find them on the Arcteryx Beta SL and the Arcteryx Beta AR)

Shop Arc'teryx Beta Waterproof Jacket, their best selling waterproof jacket: Men's | Women's

Shop Arc'teryx Beta SL Waterproof Jacket if you’re interested in a lighter weight version: Men's | Women's

 

Need something tougher? Consider the Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket

The Beta is our pick for hiking, travel and general outdoor use. If you regularly carry a heavy pack through rough terrain or spend long days in exposed mountain conditions, the Beta AR is worth considering. It’s a separate model with a more rugged construction and pit zips for extra ventilation (a feature the standard Beta doesn’t have).

"The Beta AR Jacket has been my go to outdoor jacket for the past couple of years. I work as a tour guide on Tasmania's Overland and have seen almost all weather possible out there from showers, heavy rain to sleep and snow. 

Some things I like about the Beta AR jacket are the stormohood designed hood. It is a bit bigger and roomier allowing things like wearing my bike helmet under it while bikepacking thru bad weather and still allowing the hood to move with my head and not block my vision. It's a comfy hood while in use doing a range of moving activities. The very large pit zips I also love as they allow nice air flow and ventilation when moving so you don't overheat and sweat, yet you're still getting protection from the elements and wind.

There have been some key moments where the jacket has proven itself, like riding over high passes in central asia over 4000m while it's snowing / raining. Not only staying protected from the weather but also being able to remain comfortable, see my surroundings and move without feeling limited. I would recommend it for people who are hiking a lot in bad weather wearing bigger packs etc and moving through harsher terrain. Overall this jacket has a burlier material than other jackets and a thicker more durable material on areas like the shoulder prone to more wear from packs etc. Great for people using a jacket a lot in bad weather. 

If you prefer a jacket with a really long design that comes down more over your legs it probably isn't the first choice as it is a more fitted design around the waist. But if you prefer that more streamline feel it's perfect for a jacket on the move without restricting you from moving." - Hamish Lockett, Adventure Photographer, Mountain Guide and Wild Earth Ambassador

 

Hamish Lockett wearing the Arcteryx Beta AR Jacket in the wet Tassie Wild

Shop Arc'teryx Beta AR Waterproof Jacket if you’re more interested in Alpine conditions and need something that can handle rougher terrain: Men's | Women's

 

Best for Alpine Adventures: Rab Firewall Alpine

Best for: Alpine climbing, hiking, exposed terrain and demanding mountain adventures

Why it wins: The Rab Firewall Alpine is made for alpine adventures where the weather and terrain can get more intense. It combines a tough 3-layer waterproof construction with a mountain-focused fit and features, giving you plenty of protection without the bulk of a heavier expedition shell (plus it’s still relatively packable).

Key specs

• Construction: 3-layer Pertex® Shield
• Weight: 316g (men’s, size M)
• Waterproofing: 20,000mm
• Breathability: 20,000g/m²/24hrs
• Face fabric: 20D Pertex Shield
• Ventilation: Underarm pit zips
• Hood: Helmet-compatible with stiffened peak

 

 

"Best-fitting rain jacket I've worn. It's not boxy at all. I wear it hiking in the Gold Coast rainforest and it keeps me dry without getting sweaty, which is exactly what you want up in the mountains too." - Ona, Wild Earth Burleigh Store Outdoor Gear Specialist.

Ona, Wild Earth Gear Specialist wearing the Rab Firewall Rain Jacket in store at Wild Earth HQ

What we like:

• Protective 3-layer construction
• Softer feeling fabric
• Excellent pit-zip ventilation
• Helmet-compatible hood
• Built for unrestricted movement

Things to consider:

• Ultralight hikers may prefer a simpler, lighter shell

Shop Rab Firewall Alpine: Men's | Women's

 

Best Value Rain Jacket: XTM Takayna

Best for: Hiking, travel and everyday outdoor use

Why it wins: The XTM Takayna offers impressive waterproof performance at a much more accessible price than many technical 3-layer shells. It’s a great option for hikers who want dependable protection and useful outdoor features without spending $400-700 on a rain jacket.

Key specs

• Construction: 2.5-layer HydroVENT20+
• Waterproof rating: 20,000mm
• Breathability: 10,000g/m²/24hr
• Ventilation: Underarm ventilation
• Seams: Fully seam sealed

 

 

The Takayna sits in a useful middle ground between inexpensive everyday rainwear and premium technical shells. Its HydroVENT20+ fabric offers a 20,000mm waterproof rating, giving it plenty of protection for wet hikes, camping trips and general outdoor use. The 2.5-layer construction also helps keep the jacket relatively lightweight and packable, while underarm ventilation is useful when you're working harder on the trail. Where it really stands out is value. You’re getting genuinely capable wet-weather protection without the price tag of a premium GORE-TEX or 3-layer technical shell.

"This is my go-to for everyday rain. Shopping, running around town, getting outdoors, it does it all. Great quality for the price, you really get more than you pay for." - Buha, Wild Earth Burleigh Store Outdoor Gear Specialist

 

Buha, Wild Earth Specialist wearing XTM at Wild Earth HQ

What we like:

• Excellent value for the level of waterproofing
• 20,000mm waterproof rating
• Underarm ventilation
• Fully seam sealed
• Lightweight and packable
• Good option for hiking and everyday use

Things to consider:

• 2.5-layer construction isn't as robust as heavier-duty 3-layer shells
• Less suited to prolonged severe weather and demanding alpine use

Who should buy it?

The Takayna is a great choice if you want a capable hiking rain jacket without spending premium-shell money. It's particularly well suited to day hiking, camping, travel and general outdoor adventures where you want solid weather protection at a more accessible price.

Shop XTM Takayna: Men's | Women's

 

Best Budget-Friendly Rain Jacket: Marmot PreCip Eco

Best for: Day hikes, travel and everyday rain

Why it wins: The Marmot PreCip Eco is a tried-and-tested waterproof shell that gives you the practical features you need in a hiking rain jacket without pushing into premium-level prices. It’s simple, lightweight and stashable, making it a great option for hikers and travellers.

Key specs

• Construction: 2.5-layer NanoPro™ waterproof/breathable fabric
• Face fabric: Recycled nylon ripstop
• Ventilation: Pit zips
• Seams: Fully seam taped
• Packability: Packs into its own pocket

 

 

The PreCip has been a staple in Marmot's rainwear range for years, and the Eco version adds recycled materials while keeping the straightforward design that made the original so popular. For hiking, the pit zips are a particularly useful feature, allowing you to dump heat quickly when you're climbing or hiking in warmer, humid conditions. It also packs into its own pocket, so it's easy to throw into a daypack when the forecast looks questionable.

It's not designed to compete with heavier-duty technical shells, but that's also the point. If you need an affordable jacket for occasional wet-weather hiking, travelling or everyday use, the PreCip Eco covers the essentials without overcomplicating things.

"Super light and windproof, and the hood rolls away into the collar when you don't need it. It's not the most breathable, so I'd grab it for shorter outings rather than big sweaty days." - Sam, Wild Earth Burleigh Store Outdoor Gear Specialist

 

Sam, Wild Earth Gear Specialist wearing the Marmot Rain Jacket at Wild Earth HQ

What we like:

• Affordable price
• Lightweight and packable
• Useful pit zips
• Recycled nylon face fabric
• Packs into its own pocket
• Proven, straightforward design

Things to consider:

• 2.5-layer construction isn't as durable as a robust 3-layer shell
• Better suited to occasional hiking than prolonged severe weather

Shop Marmot PreCip Eco: Men's | Women's

 

Best for Serious Mountain Weather: Patagonia Triolet

Best for: Alpine hiking, mountaineering, climbing and cold, exposed conditions

Why it wins: The Patagonia Triolet is one of the more hardcore options in this line-up. Built specifically for cold, snowy alpine conditions, it combines a tough 75-denier face fabric with 3-layer GORE-TEX ePE and mountain-focused features including a helmet-compatible hood, RECCO reflector and pack- and harness-compatible pockets.

Key specs

• Weight: 510g (men's)
• Construction: 3-layer GORE-TEX ePE Performance
• Face fabric: 75D 100% recycled polyester
• Ventilation: Two-way pit zips
• Hood: Helmet compatible
• Safety: RECCO reflector

At 510g, the Triolet isn't trying to be an ultralight hiking shell. Instead, the emphasis is on rugged weather protection for more demanding mountain environments. The mountain-specific details like a hood that can fit over a helmet, the front pockets remain accessible while wearing a harness or pack waistbelt, and two-way pit zips give you plenty of ventilation when you're working hard uphill.

It's also one of the stronger sustainability stories in this line-up with the outer being made of 100% recycled polyester, the GORE-TEX ePE fabric, membrane and DWR finish are made without intentionally added PFAS, the fabric is bluesign approved, and the jacket is made in a Fair Trade Certified factory.

“The thing that sets this jacket apart for me is the performance and toughness. The thick 75-denier face fabric is excellent for use around abrasive environments such as dense rainforest, so I'm not worried about tearing the shell like on thinner rain jackets.

It also holds its shape well, there's a sturdiness to it that makes it feel protective rather than floppy. The fit is versatile enough to layer underneath for snow and it's not out of place in the city. It has four external pockets, one internal, pit-zips, a helmet-compatible hood, and a RECCO reflector - so it's ready for technical use. If you want one jacket that goes from rainforest to ski resort to the pub without skipping a beat, this is it!” - Shannon Johnson, outdoor adventure filmmaker and photographer and Wild Earth Ambassador

 

Photo of Shannon aka Risen Film, Adventure Photographer and Wild Earth Ambassador wearing his Patagonia Triolet in the Tassie Wilderness.

What we like:

• Tough 3-layer GORE-TEX ePE construction
• Durable 75D recycled face fabric
• Excellent two-way pit zips
• Helmet-compatible hood
• Pack- and harness-friendly pockets
• RECCO reflector
• Strong sustainability credentials

Things to consider:

• At 510g, it's one of the heavier jackets in this guide
• More jacket than most people need for everyday use or straightforward day hikes
• Premium price

Shop Patagonia Triolet: Men's | Women's

 

How to Choose a Rain Jacket (Buying Guide)

Waterproof rating isn’t the holy grail of Rain Jacket specs. The type of terrain and the conditions you plan to wear it matter much more. Here’s some key rainwear terms you should understand to help you make the best selection for you.

 

Waterproof Rating

You’ll notice most waterproof jackets include waterproof ratings in the specs. This can look like ‘waterproof rating: 10,000mm’. In simple terms, the higher the number here, the more water pressure (aka rain dump) the fabric can withstand before moisture starts seeping through it.

A jacket rated to 20,000mm will generally offer you more protection than one rated to 10,000mm. That said, the waterproof rating number shouldn't be your only consideration when choosing a rain jacket. Seam sealing, hood design, zips, fabric construction and how long you'll be exposed to rain all affect how well a jacket performs in the real world.

So, for example if you're running, day hiking and expecting occasional rain, a lighter 10,000mm shell may be perfectly suitable but if you're expecting prolonged rain, exposed alpine terrain or multi-day conditions, a higher waterproof rating and more protective construction can make more sense.

 

Breathability Matters Just as Much in Australia

Breathability is basically how well a rain jacket lets your sweat and moisture escape from the inside while still keeping rain out.

This becomes particularly important when you're hiking or running in warm, humid conditions in places like Queensland and New South Wales. Even the most breathable waterproof fabrics have limits, and if you're working hard in warm weather you can generate moisture faster than a jacket can move it out.

This is why you can end up with that gross clammy feeling inside a rain jacket. It doesn't necessarily mean the jacket is leaking, it’s more likely the fact that sweat and condensation has built up inside. Features like pit zips, lightweight fabrics and adjustable cuffs are just as important as the breathability stats on the product page.

Important Note: breathability stats are not that helpful when comparing different brands, because there’s no standardised industry test. Treat them as a rough guide.

 

2.5-Layer vs 3-Layer Rain Jackets

Rain Jackets often get referred to as either 2.5-layer or 3-layer. This relates to how the waterproof membrane or coating is protected within the fabric, it’s essentially how durable it is.

If a jacket doesn’t mention anything layer related, it’s usually a 2.5-layer jacket which combines an outer top fabric with a waterproof membrane or coating and a thin protective print on the inside. These jackets tend to be lighter, more packable and more affordable, making them useful for day hikes, travel and carrying as an emergency shell.

3-layer jackets layer the waterproof membrane between an outer fabric and a full inner backing fabric. In general, they’re more durable, comfortable and better suited to heavier use like regular hiking, carrying a pack, rougher terrain and prolonged wet weather.

The choice usually comes down to value minimum weight and packability vs greater durability and long-term protection.

 

Pit Zips for Ventilation

Pit zips are massively underrated because they're one of the most useful forms of ventilation.

When you open the zips under your arms, it allows hot, humid air to escape quickly without taking the jacket off or exposing you to rain. When you're climbing steep hills, hiking with a pack or moving through warm, humid conditions, this is a game changer. So, if you run hot, or regularly hike in high humidity, we'd put ventilation high on the priority list.

 

Lightweight vs Durable Rain Jackets

One of the biggest trade-offs when choosing a rain jacket is weight versus durability.

Ultralight shells like the Mont Lightspeed and Salomon Bonatti are designed to stash easily into your running vest or backpack and provide weather protection without adding unnecessary weight. That makes them ideal for fastpacking, trail running and ultralight hiking whereas more hardcore jackets such like the Arcteryx Beta or Patagonia Triolet use tougher fabrics and more protective designs. Usually they weigh more, but that’s exactly why they’re better suited to being worn with a backpack in rough terrain, alpine environments and longer periods of bad weather.

 

Durable Water Repellant: DWR

Most waterproof jackets have a Durable Water Repellent, or DWR, treatment on the outer fabric. This causes rain to bead up and roll off rather than soaking into the fabric.

Important note: DWR doesn’t make your jacket waterproof, it’s actually the waterproof membrane or coating underneath that’s responsible for keeping water out.

Over time, dirt, body oils and abrasion can reduce the effectiveness of the DWR so if water stops beading on the surface (don’t panic!), washing the jacket according to the manufacturer's care instructions can often help reactivate the finish.

 

PFAS-Free and ePE Waterproof Jackets

PFAS are a group of highly persistent chemicals historically used for their water- and oil-repellent properties. Studies show that they’re not good for the environment so many outdoor brands are moving away from waterproof membranes and DWR treatments that use intentionally added PFAS.

One of the most noticeable changes is the introduction of GORE-TEX's newer ePE membrane. Gore says its ePE laminates are made without intentionally added PFAS and use a thinner, lighter membrane while still providing waterproof, windproof and breathable protection.

You'll now see ePE used in jackets such as the Arc'teryx Beta and Patagonia Triolet in this guide. The move away from PFAS does mean looking after modern waterproof shells is increasingly important, using regular washing and proper DWR care to help maintain its ability to bead water and breathe effectively over time.

 

Final Thoughts

Hopefully this article has demystified one of the most confusing categories and has helped you identify the right choice for you based on the type of adventures you go on most and the climate and terrain you expect.

If you're still struggling to decide, think about the worst conditions you're likely to encounter and choose a jacket capable of handling them.

If you need any help, chat with our friendly team of Outdoor Gear Specialists in-store or online today and don’t forget to share your adventures with us on Instagram by tagging @wildearthaustralia and #mywildearth in your next post.

 

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Rain Jacket FAQs

 

Why do I still feel wet inside a waterproof rain jacket?

It’s not always rain getting through to your skin. It’s more likely that sweat and condensation can build up faster than a waterproof-breathable membrane can move moisture out, particularly in warm, humid conditions. This can happen during strenuous hiking or other high-output activities. Good ventilation like pit zips, back vents and opening the main front zip can prevent this by allowing heat and moisture to escape mechanically rather than relying entirely on the membrane.

 

What does it mean when a rain jacket ‘wets out’?

Wetting out happens when water stops beading off the outer face fabric and a saturated outer fabric can significantly reduce breathability and leave you feeling cold and clammy. If your usually reliable jacket starts wetting out quickly, check the manufacturer's care instructions and we recommend cleaning the jacket as this should restore or reactivate its durable water-repellent (DWR) treatment.

 

Are pit zips worth having on a rain jacket in Australia?

For hiking in warm or humid Australian conditions, we think they can be extremely useful. Pit zips allow you to dump heat and moisture without completely removing your rain protection, which can make a noticeable difference on steep climbs and during sustained activity. They're less important on highly specialised lightweight jackets where minimum weight is the priority, but for an all-round hiking shell, ventilation is one of the features we'd prioritise.

 

Is an ultralight rain jacket durable enough for Australian bushwalking?

An ultralight shell can make excellent sense for well-maintained trails, trail running and trips where the jacket spends most of its time in your pack, but if you’re heading into mountainous terrain, dense bush or walking off track lighter fabrics may get caught and tear more easily as they are not as durable.

 

Do I need a heavy-duty rain jacket for Tasmania and alpine Australia?

Reliability certainly becomes more important when you're heading into exposed environments where conditions can change rapidly and tend to be more extreme.

For maintained trails in relatively mild conditions, a lighter waterproof shell may be sufficient but for multi-day alpine trips, exposed ridgelines, off-track walking or trips where prolonged bad weather is a possibility, we'd generally favour a more hardcore rainjacket with dependable waterproof construction, good coverage and enough durability for the terrain.