Essential Waterproof Hiking Gear for All Weather Conditions

Are you an outdoor enthusiast who loves hiking in all types of weather? If so, you know that having the right gear can make all the difference in your outdoor adventures. When it comes to adventuring in the great outdoors, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear. Luckily, there is a plethora of waterproof hiking gear out there for all sizes, styles, and budgets. Whether you’re a beginner hiker or a seasoned trekker, you’re sure to find just what you need to keep scattered showers or storms from dampening your day.

To help you in your search for the best hiking gear for rainy weather, we spoke with expert hikers and hiking guides for tips and tricks to find exactly what you need for different types of wet-weather trekking.

Nathan Postle, a naturalist and hiking guide with Gunflint Lodge and Outfitters in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in northern Minnesota, stresses the importance of layering. “Layering is key because you want to be able to put layers on and take them off to adjust to the changing temperatures and weather.”

In addition to understanding the importance of layering, Tim Willis, a hiking and wilderness guide with Wilderness Scotland, wants hikers to know that no gear is 100% waterproof. “At some point, all gear will allow some water in; it’s just a matter of time. To truly know the waterproofness of your gear, you need to spend several hours hiking in a strong downpour, when the wind can whip water into places that may have remained dry in less severe weather.”

While the best waterproof hiking gear will certainly include rain jackets and waterproof pants, we’ve consulted with our experts to create a list of wet-weather gear that includes specific must-have items, along with some unexpected extras that could come in handy.

For footwear, Postle recommends hiking boots or shoes with a fully waterproof exterior, such as the X Ultra 360 Edge Gore-Tex shoes by Salomon. Willis swears by Altberg leather boots and recommends Salomon as a great runner-up option. My personal favorite pair of waterproof hiking boots are the Vasque St. Elias FG GTX, which are fully waterproof and very comfortable.

When it comes to trekking pants, Willis recommends looking for ones with zips that go all the way up your legs for easy removal. Postle notes the importance of wearing layers so you can easily add on and remove warmth, and recommends the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket for a simple and straightforward waterproof shell.

In addition to needing a waterproof outer layer, Postle notes the importance of quick-drying base layers and mid-layers. A necessary piece of hiking gear regardless of the weather is a quick-drying, moisture-wicking layer like wool tops and bottoms. Smartwool offers a range of base layer tops and bottoms that work for all different temperatures.

To care for your waterproof hiking gear and ensure it stays waterproof, Willis recommends washing your Gore-Tex kit with appropriate detergents and reproofing it. He also suggests re-waxing leather boots from time to time to maintain their waterproof ability.

In conclusion, having the right waterproof hiking gear can make all the difference in your outdoor adventures. From waterproof footwear to rain jackets and trekking pants, investing in quality gear and properly caring for it will ensure you stay dry and comfortable on your wet-weather hikes. So, gear up, layer up, and hit the trails with confidence, knowing you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.