Finding the right hiking jacket for UK terrain means balancing weatherproofing, breathability and packing practicality. This guide highlights five men’s jackets from well-known outdoor brands, focusing on waterproofing, warmth and versatile wear for trekking, walking and travel. Each option is designed to cope with sudden showers, wind and cool mornings, while remaining comfortable on long routes. Use the buying guide at the end to compare features, fit, and price considerations so you can choose confidently for your next excursion.
| Product | Type | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain Warehouse Covert | Lightweight Waterproof | 2,000mm waterproof, breathable | Travelling and trekking |
| Mountain Warehouse Fell 3 in 1 | 3-in-1 Waterproof | Outer shell with detachable inner fleece | Variable UK weather |
| Regatta Cera Softshell | Softshell Jacket | Water repellent, wind resistant | Walking and hiking in milder conditions |
| Mountain Warehouse Arctic II | Softshell with Fleece | Fleece lining, DWR treated | Autumn to winter hikes |
| Mountain Warehouse Season Padded | Padded Jacket | Lab-tested warmth, water resistant | Cold, dry days |
Mountain Warehouse Covert Mens Waterproof Jacket
The Mountain Warehouse Covert jacket is a lightweight option designed for travel and trekking. It provides a waterproof shell rated at 2,000mm and breathability to help perspiration escape, keeping you cooler during ascent and warmer during breaks. The taped seams help seal out rain, while the adjustable hood offers extra protection in sudden showers. This jacket aims to balance compact packing with reliable protection, making it suitable for year-round UK hiking where weather can shift quickly.
Mountain Warehouse Fell 3 in 1 Waterproof Jacket
The Fell 3 in 1 offers flexibility with three wearing options: the outer waterproof shell, an inner lightweight fleece, or both together for extra warmth. Treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish, droplets bead and roll off the fabric in light rain. The detachable inner jacket makes this a practical choice for variable UK conditions, from damp mornings to chilly evenings on the trail. It balances weather protection with versatile layering, making it ideal for hikers who want one jacket for multiple seasons.
Regatta Cera Softsell Outdoor Summer Jacket
The Regatta Cera Softsell jacket is designed for walkers who face wind and light rain without needing heavy insulation. The softshell fabric blends warmth and stretch with a durable water-repellent finish, helping the jacket resist wind chill while offering comfortable movement on trails. It’s a practical choice for milder days or breezy upland routes where layering with a warmer mid-layer suffices. The fit and stretch suit hikers who spend hours on their feet and require ease of movement in varied terrain.
Mountain Warehouse Arctic II Mens Softshell
The Arctic II softshell combines a water-resistant exterior with a warm fleece lining, offering comfort across autumn and winter days. The DWR finish helps droplets bead on the surface, reducing saturation in light rain. An adjustable hood completes the protection, while the fleece interior provides added warmth on early morning starts or cooler summit temperatures. This jacket is shaped for active wear with a focus on warmth without bulk, suitable for steady pacing on long hikes.
Mountain Warehouse Season Mens Padded Jacket
The Season padded jacket is a lightweight insulated option, designed for warmth on cold, dry days. It is water-resistant thanks to a DWR treatment, helping droplets bead and roll off the fabric. The jacket features side pockets and a microfibre fill, which provides warmth without excessive bulk. It is suitable for base-camp wear, short hikes in cooler weather, or travel where packable warmth is beneficial. This jacket prioritises warmth retention in a compact profile for everyday outdoor use.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Weatherproofing vs. warmth: In the UK, aim for a jacket that balances a waterproof outer layer with a breathable membrane to prevent overheating during climbs and cooling during descents.
- Layering compatibility: Consider how a jacket integrates with mid-layers such as fleeces or light down for changing conditions across seasons.
- Fit and mobility: Look for jackets with articulated sleeves, adjustable hems and hoods to ensure unrestricted movement on rough terrain.
- Packability and weight: For travel and multi-day hikes, compact jackets or 3-in-1 systems reduce luggage weight while preserving protection.
- Durability: Seams, zippers and fabric finish (DWR) affect long-term performance. Field testing in damp woodland and misty uplands helps verify robustness.
- Maintenance: Some fabrics require regular reproofing and proper drying to maintain waterproofing. Follow manufacturer care instructions to extend life.
- Value and lifespan: Compare price against features like waterproof rating (mm), breathability (g/m2/24h), and layering options to estimate long-term value.
In selecting a hiking jacket, UK hikers should weigh how often they hike in wet weather, how cold they get, and whether they prioritise breathability for long ascents or warmth for chilly mornings. The five jackets featured offer a spectrum of protection levels, from lightweight waterproof shells to fleece-lined softshells and padded insulators. Each option supports diverse hiking scenarios, ensuring you stay dry, comfortable and ready to explore, whatever the forecast.