Women's hard shell jacket for backpacking?

Question

What hard shell jacket for outerwear should I get for when I'm backpacking?

Answer 1

I use a very lightweight, unlined rain shell year-round. I have a Marmot "Precip" and an EMS "Thunderhead". Neither are Gore-Tex (both use their own waterproof/breathable membrane.)

In summer I just wear the jacket, if it is cooler, I layer with fleece.

I used to use a jacket that had a nylon liner and a tougher outer shell, but it was heavy and didn't compress well. Both the Marmot and the EMS jackets keep me dry except on the most humid days...even then nothing will really work well.

I've also tested some jackets made of Gore-Tex. Honestly, I didn't find any significant difference between Gore-Tex and the brand-specific waterproof materials, except the Gore products were a tad more breathable.

Answer 2

I don't own any waterproof-breathable clothing. In rain and snow I hike with a coated but not seam sealed windbreaker type jacket with hood and a Golite Dome umbrella, and similar pants. I also carry a silnylon poncho as backup in case high winds prevent the use of the umbrella. Underneath I layer for cold as necessary with synthetic insulated "puffy" vests and/or jackets. We've gone on several day long rain hikes and one snowing hike with this technique for all family members with complete success.
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