3 Tips for Picking Waterproof Gore-Tex Jackets for Men
Whether you’re a fast-moving mountain man who needs a jacket for wind protection, an outdoor enthusiast who gets out whatever the weather, or a backpacker who needs gear to pack light but still protect them on tough terrain through wild elements, a men’s GORE-TEX jacket is what you need.
A breathable yet waterproof, warm yet lightweight men’s Gore-Tex jacket offers exceptional performance and protection for various outdoor activities; from wild hiking and daring skiing in the wilderness to urban exploring in the city when the weather gets wild. Here’s what you need to know about GORE-TEX, and how to choose the best option for your needs.
Are GORE-TEX Jackets Worth It?

Although many manufacturers swear on the many gore-tex alternatives used in their jackets, it’s the innovation and the material used to make GORE-TEX, the expanded polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE for short, that make Gore-tex a preferred material choice for waterproof jackets. GORE-TEX is an extremely windproof, waterproof, breathable, and rugged fabric.
These features make it suitable for outdoor apparel such as jackets and pants, accessories like gaiters and gloves, and shoes for daily outdoor activities. For maximum comfort, it keeps you dry in both light and heavy precipitation while letting sweat evaporate as you’re on the move.
How to Choose a Mens Gore-tex Jacket?

The type of weather you expect, the activities you want to engage in, and the terrain you will be traversing will all influence your choice of men’s Gore-Tex jacket. These factors should impact the features, fit, breathability, and protection levels you require.
1. Decide on the Right GORE-TEX Fabric for You
Several types of Gore-Tex fabrics are used for men’s jackets, each with different numbers of layers, construction, and benefits over the other. Here’s a quick breakdown of each variety.
GORE-TEX PRO
This is a three-layer waterproof fabric made to resist abrasion in demanding conditions. It keeps you dry during the worst snowstorms and heavy downpours since it is windproof, breathable, and extremely protective.
GORE-TEX Performance
Performance Gore-Tex products are made to withstand the harshest conditions while offering remarkable comfort, breathability, and mobility. They increase durability without adding bulk.
GORE-TEX PACLITE® and PACLITE® Plus 2.5-layer
The Paclite 2.5 is a 2.5-layer waterproof that is incredibly lightweight, portable, extremely breathable and perfect for tucking into a pack as the weather changes. Its Plus version is a 2.5-layer waterproof that is incredibly thin, lightweight, and packable. It’s breathable, keeps you dry, readily deflects the wind, and is incredibly sturdy and abrasion-resistant. Keep it in your pack and be prepared for everything.
GORE-TEX Active and WINDSTOPPER®
The Gore-Tex active is a waterproof, lightweight and incredibly breathable fabric. It’s soft on the skin, long-lasting, and windproof, making it perfect for high-aerobic exercises. The windstopper, on the other hand, is totally windproof and incredibly breathable, ideal for strenuous alpine activities when waterproofing is not a top concern. It’s adaptable and practical, controlling moisture and guaranteeing total comfort when on the move.
2. Consider Your Activities
The weather conditions in which you regularly plan your activities can help you decide between 2, 2.5, and 3-layer jackets. A protective 3-layer construction is the best choice if you need an all-around jacket suitable for all-season outdoor activities.
Whether on or off the trail, you need a lightweight jacket that packs easily in case the weather gets warmer, yet waterproof so it protects you in the wettest weather. For hillwalking and hiking, opt for a protective and adaptable Gore-Tex jacket that offers a high degree of mobility and functionality while also being able to fit neatly into your bag.
On the other hand, for climbing mountains, you need a Gore-Tex jacket that can keep you safe on the roughest terrain and in the harshest mountain weather. A mountaineering shell must be strong, extremely protective, and have room underneath for layering.
3. Pick Your Features
The material is only one part of the equation of choosing a waterproof jacket. The jacket’s features are also important for its performance. Ask yourself which are critical for your activities and weather, and accordingly pick a jacket that includes them.
Fit
The ideal fit for a jacket is completely personal. Simply put, you should wear the one you feel most comfortable in. While some people like their jackets short others like them long to cover the waistband. However, consider a few factors while trying on a waterproof coat. For instance, when climbing, can you still see your feet or are the pockets high enough to be out of your harness? Or is it designed to sit close to the body and minimize drag if you want to use it for running?
Among the more general things to consider is whether the sleeves cover your wrists when you move your arms. Is the material too tight beneath the arms and across the shoulders? You might be wearing the jacket in various climates, so pick the appropriate fit based on how many layers you want to wear underneath.
Taped Seams
Taped seams use heat-applied waterproof tape to cover tiny needle holes left during sewing, ensuring water doesn’t seep through. Jackets can be taped, focusing on high-exposure regions like the neck, shoulders, and chest, or entirely taped, sealing every seam. No matter how waterproof or breathable the fabric is, water will find its way in without proper seam sealing.
Zips
Waterproof jackets may feature ‘hydro-seal zips,’ which use rubber to create a tight seal, or ‘storm baffles,’ overlapping fabric that shields the zip. Hydro-seal zips are lightweight and sleek, while storm baffles offer added durability. Some jackets also include underarm pit zips for ventilation, a handy feature if you overheat, adding to the jacket’s overall breathability and comfort.
Hood
A hood shields your head and face from rain and wind. Wired peaks allow you to adjust the fit, while larger hoods accommodate helmets for cycling or climbing. Ensure the hood fits snugly, doesn’t block your vision, and allows free head movement.
Pull Cords and Velcro
Quality waterproof jackets include adjustable drawcords or Velcro closures at the hood and wrists to seal out water. These should be easy to use and well-positioned for convenience.