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Weatherproof outerwear
Weatherproof outerwear is essential if you are heading for an extended backpacking trip. The outer layer of your outdoor clothing seals out weather and protects you from wet, windy, and extreme elements. Your outer layer will depend on where you are and what you are doing.
Different outerwear options
Unfortunately, there is an inverse relationship between breathability and waterproofness. The more breathable is, the less waterproof it will be. The same goes for the reverse. Basically, there are three levels of outerwear: waterproof/non-breathable, water resistant/breathable or windproof/breathable, and waterproof/"not very" breathable.
· Waterproof/Non-Breathable
Since it's non-breathable, perspiration can't evaporate. However, you have to keep your activity level to a minimum if you don't want to get wet from the inside. A waterproof/non-breathable layer is typically made of a durable, polyurethane-coated nylon.
· Water Resistant/Breathable or windproof/breathable
It will not protect you from heavy rain, but it provides excellent breathability to keep you cool when your body heats up. It is best for those times when you only need a windproof shell and stand a greater chance of getting wet from the inside than from the outside.
· Waterproof/"not very" Breathable
This option sacrifices a bit of the breathability compared to the water resistant/breathable version. This is the best and most all-round solution for different climate conditions and outdoor activities. Of course, the ideal solution should be a waterproof/ "very" breathable outerwear. While there are always new products every year, you can still distinguish the three basic levels of outerwear.
Recommended outerwear
Weatherproof outerwear that covers the body from head to foot is recommended for any wilderness backpacker or hiker. A waterproof jacket with a hood and a pair of waterproof pants is a good choice. A good complement is a rain poncho, this is also lighter and packs smaller. Make sure the outerwear is roomy enough to fit easily over other layers and not restrict your movement.
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