Page 3 of Columbia Sun-Protective Fabric Clothing

Waterproof vs. water-resistant

Waterproof/breathable: keeps out hard, driving rain while also being breathable
Waterproof/nonbreathable: a slicker or poncho—inexpensive but traps heat
Water-resistant: can handle light to moderate rain, breathable but permeable

Windproof vs. wind-resistant

Hard shell vs. soft shell

Hard shell: the most protection, less breathability, not insulated
Soft shell: stretchy and breathable, best for high-exertion, typically water-resistant, not -proof

Rainwear layers

Key features to look for in hike clothing

Moisture wicking: moves sweat to the outer surface while also drying quickly; that lets you break a sweat without feeling clammy or chilled
Sun-protective fabric: Choose clothing with a UPF rating to protect yourself from harmful UV exposure; a higher rating means better sun protection
Quick drying: materials that dry quickly keep you cool, comfortable and dry
Insect repellent: treated with active ingredients to help keep ticks, mosquitoes and other bugs at bay

Hike clothing fabrics

Merino wool: has fine fibers that make it soft, breathable, moisture-wicking, reasonably quick to dry and not prone to retaining odors.
Polyester/nylon: Generally less expensive than merino wool, these synthetics excel at wicking sweat and drying fast; many incorporate recycled materials

Dress in layers

Start with a base layer that wicks sweat off your skin; this includes underwear, a bra, hiking shirt and hiking pants
Add a middle layer to retain body heat in colder conditions; this could be a fleece jacket, an insulated vest or puffy jacket
An outer layer, like a rain jacket, shields you from wind and rain

Columbia Sun-Protective Fabric Clothing