What is a Hardshell Waterproof Jacket?

Waterproof jackets (or hard shells as they are also known) are the final protective layer in your layering system.

The main difference between these waterproof layers is the fabric they are made from and the level of breathability that this will give you.
The level of breathability is dependent on

• High aerobic activities (such as mountain climbing, hill walking etc) necessitate the use of highly breathable fabrics.
• Less arduous activities (such as day to day use, or lowland walking) require a lessbreathable garment.