You might’ve heard the phrase “There’s no bad weather, only bad clothing” before. When setting out on year-round outdoor excursions, it can be daunting to find the best option for a variety of weather conditions and activities. At Kari Traa, we make jackets, fleeces and vests that stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Our fashion-forward, technical outerwear doesn’t let rain, cold or wind get you down when you have your eyes set on an open-air adventure.
A hiking jacket is an investment piece that can be worn year after year. There are lots of options featuring different materials, fits, and technical details—we’ve broken down key differences in the guide below.
Depending on the climate where you’ll be hiking, look for a combination of the technical features below to find the best hiking jacket:
A few things to look for in a perfect hiking pant:
Made from durable fabric, hard shell jackets are great for keeping wind and water out during foul weather.
Soft shell jackets, in contrast to a hard shells, are made from a woven material, offering lightweight warmth, breathability, mobility, and weather resistance. Headed out on a crisp, bluebird day? Opt for a performance fleece that will keep you toasty warm while remaining breathable.
Insulated jackets are a great option for cold weather hikes, where both warmth and durability are necessary.