How To Choose A Rain Jacket: Essential Guide To Waterproof & Breathability Ratings

Stop getting soaked on the trails! Our guide breaks down waterproof ratings and breathability so you can pick the perfect rain jacket. Find out if GORE-TEX or Salomon gear is right for your next adventure.

Choosing the right rain running jacket or hiking jacket can make the difference between staying protected from the elements and being soaked to your skin.  

It isn’t as simple as grabbing a waterproof rain jacket in your favourite colour off the shelf. Waterproof and breathability ratings are two key technical features that will influence how dry, comfortable and confident you’ll feel outdoors. 

Understanding how these metrics work will help answer your common concerns as an outdoor adventurer. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is a 10K or 20K waterproof rating better?” you’re in the right place, and it isn’t always as simple as opting for the highest number. We’ll also explain what’s so special about GORE-TEX, and put the spotlight on one of the best rain jackets in Australia by Salomon. 

Check out our beginner’s guide to choosing a waterproof rain jacket from hiking enthusiast and outdoor gear expert Ethan below. 

Hey guys, Ethan here from Wildfire Sports & Trek and today I’m going to tell you all about GORE-TEX, waterproofing and breathability. What is GORE-TEX good for? When should you use it? And how can it improve your outdoor experience? First off, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of waterproof and breathability ratings.

What Is A Good Rating For A Waterproof Jacket? 

You’ll notice your weather-ready trekking jacket or running jacket has a number that corresponds to the waterproof rating, like 5,000, 10,000 or 20,000mm. This scale lets you know what activities your outdoor clothing is rated for in terms of the weather conditions. 

Please note: It’s less about “What’s the best waterproof rating?” and more about “What’s the best waterproof rating for the conditions?”

• 5,000 - 8,000mm

  On the lower end, we have 5,000 to 8,000mm, which would be ideal for light rain or sun showers and walking around the city. Rain jackets with this rating are typically more affordable compared to fully waterproof jackets.

• 10,000 - 15,000mm

  A waterproof rating of 10,000 to 15,000mm is getting more serious. It'll keep you dry in moderately wet weather and would be great for camping, hiking or running. A fantastic example is the XTM Stash II Waterproof rain jacket. 

• 20,000 - 30,000mm

  At the higher end, we have 20,000 to 30,000mm. This is the highest waterproof clothing rating, typically found in Pertex or GORE-TEX jackets, and in turn is the most expensive. This will definitely keep you the driest in most conditions. But remember, no jacket is completely waterproof. If you were walking all day in wet weather, I would expect to get a bit wet.

What Do Breathability Ratings Mean? 

The breathability of a garment is measured in grams per square metre, per 24 hours (g/m²/24hr). This is just a technical way of measuring how much moisture can escape through the fabric over 24 hours period. 

• 0 - 5,000 g/m²/24hr 

  A rating of 0 or 5000 g/m²/24hr offers very low breathability. Modern fabrics aren't usually this low, but an older rain jacket, like canvas or rubber, would fit here. 

• 10,000 - 15,000 g/m²/24hr 

  10,000 to 15,000 g/m²/24hr is the low to medium range of breathability and would work great in colder climates for walking or hiking.

• 15,000+ g/m²/24hr 

  Lastly, 15,000 plus g/m²/24hr - this is the cream of the crop as far as breathability goes. This breathability rating is great for humid environments and more strenuous activities such as running or warm-weather hiking, like here in Queensland. 

Waterproofing vs Breathability

There is a strong relationship between waterproofing and breathability. For example, your outdoor clothing may be labelled 15K/30K or 20K/20K, where the first number is typically the waterproof rating, and the second is the breathability. 

Essentially, as waterproofing goes up, breathability will go down. That is why rain jackets with a 20K/20K rating, like the Salomon Bonatti Trail waterproof women’s jacket and Salomon Bonatti Trail waterproof men’s jacket, are very high quality, striking the best of both worlds. You can usually find the waterproof and breathability rating of a rain jacket behind the neck, or on the care label at the hip. 

What Is GORE-TEX? 

GORE-TEX is the leading technology in garment waterproofing for running shoes, hiking shoes, outdoor clothes and accessories and has been for over 20 years, but why is that? 

GORE-TEX claims to be completely windproof and waterproof while still being breathable, and sits from 20,000 to 30,000mm waterproofing depending on the age and price. 

Is GORE-TEX Actually Worth It? 

The short answer is yes, GORE-TEX can allow you to adventure in confidence and comfort, but it depends on the specific activity, conditions and your personal preferences. GORE-TEX is not an all-case solution. It is great for cold weather, heavy downpour and activities that demand lasting durability; however, it can retain heat. This makes GORE-TEX jackets ideal for skiing and hiking in the chillier months. 

If you run hot, are in a warm climate, or need a jacket for activewear, we would recommend a garment that’s slightly less waterproof but more breathable, like the Salomon Bonatti Trail jacket. 

Wrap Up 

If you have any more questions or would like to try any of these products in person, come to Wildfire Sports & Trek, or contact our hiking experts. Shopping online? Take advantage of our Try 2 Anything upgrade to find the right fit for you from your own home, with hassle-free returns.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Wildfire Sports & Trek YouTube channel for more friendly advice, expert tips and recommendations. 

Ethan Mount - Overnight Hiker, Boulderer and Avid Camper

Ethan is an outdoor enthusiast who has been hiking and camping as long as he can remember. He loves to know about the latest gear and doing overnight hikes in the Australian bush. He has completed the Overland Trek, Cooloola Great Walk and many more. 

Ethan also frequents indoor bouldering gyms and outdoor bouldering spots around Brisbane, QLD. He strongly believes in the Leave No Trace mantra and protecting the beautiful Australian land.