waterproof Jackets

[jassinc]

Hi folks
Here's hoping you can give advice.
I'm looking at getting a new waterproof jacket. Have used Sprayway, Berghuas, Mountain Hardwear, North Face and my latest is again Sprayway but this is 3 year old and is not as waterproof as it should be.
I quite like North face gear for general use but for waterproofs I don't have any prefrences.
Any sugestions would be grateful

many thanks
Jassinc

[Alteknacker]

There have already been a number of threads on this subject over the past few years. I suggest you check out those.

[Sack the Juggler]

Hi folks
Here's hoping you can give advice.
I'm looking at getting a new waterproof jacket. Have used Sprayway, Berghuas, Mountain Hardwear, North Face and my latest is again Sprayway but this is 3 year old and is not as waterproof as it should be.
I quite like North face gear for general use but for waterproofs I don't have any prefrences.
Any sugestions would be grateful

many thanks
Jassinc

it really comes down to what your preferences are: do you want a rugged, bomb proof jacket, that comes down to your knees, will protect you from most foul weather and nuclear blasts, and weighs about 1kg or a featherlike gossamer piece that weighs nothing, will spend most of its time in your backpack and when you do need it, will just about protect your head, torso and arms, but your nads will get soaked because its more like a crop top than a full on jacket?

Or something in between?

[davekeiller]

Check out the other threads on this topic, as this is a topic that appears quite often.
There is no one waterproof jacket that's universally acknowledged as being the best.
Some things to think through are:
price - generally, a more expensive jacket will be better, but there is a law of diminishing returns (i.e. a £200 jacket might be twice as good as a £100 jacket, but a £400 jacket is unlikely to be twice as good again). Set a budget and look in that price range.
Cut - some people like slightly longer jackets to cover the upper thighs, others prefer something shorter.
Intended use - if you're going trail running then you need something ultra lightweight and really breathable. For winter climbing, something a bit heavier might keep you warmer and be more robust. Get something that will be suitable for what you want to use it for.
pockets - it's personal preference.
hood - make sure it fits comfortably.

[jassinc]

cheers for all posts

[CharlesT]

As others say lots of info on various threads and you do tend to get what you pay for. But if you are after a shell type jacket it's hard to beat the Mountain Equipment Lhotse. Had mine for three years and I reckon I've never owned a better jacket for lightness and weatherproof quality.