Mountain Hardwear StretchDown

Waterproof vs. water-resistant

• A waterproof jacket keeps out hard, driving rain
• A water-resistant jacket can handle light rain for a brief time and is more breathable

Windproof vs. wind-resistant

• Any waterproof jacket is also windproof to shield you in stormy weather
• A wind-resistant jacket will offer much lighter protection

Hard shell vs. soft shell

Like a waterproof and windproof rain jacket, a hard shell will offer the most protection, but less breathability than a soft shell.

Do you need insulation?
For very cold rainy weather, consider an insulated shell, which will have down or synthetic fill for warmth while being waterproof and windproof.

Proper care is key to performance

Every rain jacket or rain pant needs regular maintenance to keep on keeping you dry, so follow care instructions to keep yours lasting.

Which insulation do you prefer?

• Down: Ultralight, warm and packable—but won't insulate when damp and dries slowly.
• Synthetic: Insulates when damp, dries fast and often less pricey than down—though heavier and less packable.
• Wet or humid conditions or high activity? Consider water-resistant down, synthetics or down/synthetic hybrids.

How much will temperature and weather vary?

• Most insulated jackets feature water-resistant shells. Some use waterproof/breathable material—pricier but they eliminate the need for a separate rain shell.

• For high-exertion activities, look for vents in the underarm or core area to dump heat.
• Some jackets vary insulation and shell materials based by body zone to provide weather protection and breathability where needed.

Consider features:

• Hoods: Add warmth and protection; some are detachable or helmet-compatible
• 3-in-1 jackets: Combine an outer shell and midlayer that zip together, so you can wear separately or as one
• Pockets: Designed to stash gear, secure valuables and more.

What capacity tent do you need?  

• How many are in your group? Tents vary in size from 2- to 8-person. 
• Assume a close fit for the number of people your tent is designed to accommodate. If you need more space for dogs and gear, size up. 

Choose the seasonality 

• 3-season tents are great shelters for most of the year. They have ample mesh for good airflow and can withstand basic downpours. 
• 3+- season tents are a little sturdier, and with less mesh, and are warmer than their 3-season cousins. 
• 4-season tents are engineered to handle high winds and other severe weather. This can make them stuffy in warm weather. 

Decide on key features 

• Peak height: Look for a taller peak height if you want to stand up in the tent.  
• Floor length: Can you fully lie down if you’re tall? Will it fit your cot or air mattress? 
• Doors: If multiple people are sleeping in the tent, you might want more than one door for more convenient access.