Good rainwear protects you from unpredictable weather without causing you to overheat during an active hike or your daily bike ride. A clear morning can quickly turn into persistent rain, and when that happens, you want to be able to rely on your gear. While traditional rainwear could often feel heavy and clammy, modern waterproof clothing uses lightweight, functional materials designed to keep rain out while allowing moisture generated by your body to escape. Whether you cycle to work in all kinds of weather, head into the woods at the weekend or set off on a multi-day trek with a fully loaded backpack, a reliable waterproof outer layer is an essential part of your outdoor kit. Quality rainwear provides plenty of freedom of movement around the shoulders and knees, fits comfortably over your other layers and packs down small when you don't need it. Easy to carry and ready when the weather changes.
What makes a good waterproof layer?
When choosing functional clothing for wet weather, the hydrostatic head and breathability are two important factors to consider. The hydrostatic head indicates in millimetres how much water pressure a fabric can withstand before moisture starts to penetrate. A rating of 5,000 mm can provide protection against lighter and more typical rain showers, while higher ratings such as 10,000 mm offer additional protection for prolonged exposure to rain and more demanding conditions. Seam construction is equally important: fully taped seams cover the tiny holes created by stitching and help prevent rainwater from entering. A breathable membrane also helps moisture vapour escape when you're hiking uphill or cycling into a headwind. In our useful guide on how to choose your waterproof clothing we explain how different membranes, coatings and technical fabrics perform in a range of weather conditions. By finding the right balance between waterproof protection and breathability, you can keep moving comfortably when the weather turns wet.
Practical details for hikers and cyclists
Alongside the technical fabric, thoughtful functional details can make a big difference to comfort when you're out in the rain for hours. An ergonomically shaped hood with adjustable drawcords moves with your head, helping you maintain good visibility when looking over your shoulder on a bike or following a winding trail. Adjustable hook-and-loop cuffs and a drawcord at the hem help create a secure fit and reduce the chance of wind-driven rain or splashing water getting inside. For waterproof trousers, long side zips can be particularly practical because they make it easier to pull the trousers over your hiking footwear without having to remove your shoes on wet ground. Heading out for a weekend adventure with your regular outdoor crew? Lightweight, packable clothing helps prevent unnecessary weight in your backpack. Secure zips and practical covered pockets help keep your essential gear safely stored while you're on the move.
As dark rain clouds gather overhead and the first heavy drops land on your shoulders, you simply zip up your waterproof jacket and adjust the hood. Dutch outdoor brand NOMAD has been developing lightweight, compact and durable outdoor gear since 1978, designed for adventures in changing weather conditions. From the original Blazer sleeping bag to today's outdoor clothing collections, durability and practical functionality remain central to our approach. Reliable rainwear should be ready for many adventures, cope with the demands of outdoor use and pack easily into your backpack when the sun breaks through again. That's why we focus on durable materials and designs that are straightforward to care for and repair, helping extend the useful life of your gear. Pack your backpack, layer up and enjoy the fresh air on your next outdoor adventure, whatever the weather brings.