Waterproof mountain jackets, which one to choose?

The waterproof jacket is an essential element for any mountain activity. It forms the third layer of protection against bad weather, wind, rain, and snow. Choosing the right jacket ensures comfort and safety in sometimes extreme conditions. But with the variety of models available, how do you find your way?

In this article, we guide you in choosing your waterproof mountain jacket by highlighting two flagship Lagoped models: the EVE jacket and the TETRAS jacket. These jackets were designed for specific activities like mountaineering, trekking, or ski touring, but they also adapt to other uses such as sailing or travel in humid climates.

The mountains impose unpredictable weather conditions. A waterproof jacket must therefore fulfill several essential functions. It protects against rain and snow thanks to a waterproof membrane while acting as a windbreaker to limit body heat loss. At the same time, a good jacket must allow moisture to escape to avoid the "sauna" effect and ensure optimal comfort during exertion.

To choose the jacket that will accompany you on all your adventures, here are the key elements to consider:

• Waterproofness, expressed in Schmerber: A jacket offering more than 20,000 mm is ideal for harsh conditions and prolonged exposure to rain or snow.

• Breathability, measured by RET: A value below 14 ensures good sweat evacuation and prevents the feeling of internal dampness.

• Weight and compactness, important criteria to facilitate transport and adaptability to different activities.

• Practical details, such as a helmet-compatible hood, pockets accessible with a harness, and ventilation zippers to better regulate body temperature.

Designed for ski touring and mountaineering, the EVE jacket is a blend of technical features and durability. Thanks to its waterproof and breathable membrane, it guarantees optimal protection while allowing excellent thermal regulation.

With a waterproof rating of 20,000 Schmerber and breathability RET < 14, it adapts to extreme weather conditions. Its weight of 580 g makes it a sturdy choice without being bulky. The hood, compatible with a helmet, has a three-point adjustment for better protection. The side ventilation zippers offer excellent temperature control, and the pockets are accessible even with a harness or backpack.

While ideal for the mountains, it can also be used for other activities like sailing, where its weather resistance is a real asset.

Lightweight and functional, the TETRAS jacket is perfect for trekking, ski touring, and even travel in wet environments. It combines protection and comfort with a waterproof rating of 20,000 Schmerber and breathability RET < 14. Weighing only 480 g, it is easy to carry and adapts to many situations.

Its underarm vents provide excellent thermal regulation, and its large pockets are ideal for storing an IGN map or other accessories. Its extended back and tailored fit ensure optimal protection against the elements while offering appreciated freedom of movement.

Although originally designed for the mountains, the TETRAS jacket is also perfect for other outdoor activities such as coastal hikes or cycling in rainy conditions.

At Lagoped, we are committed to designing technical clothing that minimizes environmental impact. Our jackets are made with recycled materials to reduce the consumption of virgin resources.

We use a recycled and recyclable Sympatex membrane, guaranteeing excellent waterproofing without compromising breathability. The water-repellent treatment applied to our jackets is PFC-free, thanks to Bionic-Finish®Eco technology, which preserves both effectiveness and environmental safety.

Our jackets are also certified Bluesign® and Oeko-Tex® Standard 100, ensuring the absence of toxic substances and manufacturing that respects workers and the environment.

Moreover, our manufacturing is entirely European. Our fabrics are produced in France and Italy, and the final assembly steps are carried out in Austria, Poland, or Hungary. This choice helps reduce the carbon footprint of our jackets while ensuring quality craftsmanship.

Buying responsibly also means choosing clothes designed to last. It is essential to clearly define your needs to avoid overconsumption and promote a more sustainable approach to outdoor gear.

Our jackets are available online, on the Lagoped website, in our stores in Chamonix and Paris, or through our distributors. 

To try one of our jackets, we invite you to find the store closest to you from our "Our Addresses" page. 

If there isn’t a store near you, don’t worry! For orders placed on the Lagoped website, returns are free, with no time limit, and shipping is free in France from €70 and in Europe from €250.

Proper maintenance is essential to preserve the performance of your waterproof jacket. Here are some essential tips:

• Wash safely at 40ºC or 60ºC using a "delicate laundry" program and gentle detergents or special detergents for technical fabrics. Do not use fabric softeners and spin at low speed (gentle cycle).
• It is possible to use the dryer and iron the jacket (below 110°C), as this reactivates the waterproofing. 

• Reactivate the water-repellent treatment with a specific PFAS-free spray.

Taking care of your gear means extending its lifespan and reducing its environmental impact.

Choosing a waterproof jacket is not just about its waterproofness. Breathability, comfort, and environmental impact are just as important. Lagoped's EVE and TETRAS jackets are designed to accompany all your adventures, whatever they may be, combining technical performance and environmental responsibility.