Getting caught out in the elements while hiking without the proper gear makes for challenging moments.

While all layers are important when backpacking and hiking, the outer layer (or protective layer) plays a huge role in whether your hike could turn into some not so fun times should the wind, rain, or snow make an appearance. 

For us adults, we have been wearing the same rain jackets for just over 10 years. We decided to go the Gore-Tex route back then and have been quite happy with our decision. I have the North Face Gore-Tex (this link is to the similar jacket) and Tyson has the Marmot Minimalist Gore-Tex (newer style link). Both of our jackets look similar in style and were purchased on sale. We have thoroughly put our jackets to use in all rough elements all over the world; from Everest Basecamp in Nepal to the mountains of Australia, Ecuador, and the Canadian Rockies.

Now, I know what you are thinking… How can our jackets be over 10 years old and still waterproof? Did you know you should wash Gore-Tex regularly? It needs to be kept clean to do it’s job and keep you dry. With the buildup of dirt (on the outside) and body oils from sweating it’s recommended you wash your Gore-Tex every few months.

Follow the directions on the tag inside your jacket. We throw all of our rain gear into the washing machine on warm, along with a small amount of gentle liquid detergent then tumble dry. Once a year we also prewash, with Nikwax Tech Wash, then treat with Nikwax TX. Direct after. Doing this resets our gear back to being fully waterproof again so we rely on them like they were new.

Gore-Tex has its technology based on an extremely thin membrane made of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, which means it has pores too small for the rain to come through from the outside, but large enough for your heat and water vapour to pass through from the inside. In saying this, I do suggest when buying a rain jacket look for one that has pit zips as they provide ventilation and regulate body temperature easier when you are sweating and wearing your jacket.

Gore-Tex products are built to last, and if you care for them properly they will.  

Now upon saying that, my rain pants are not Gore-Tex. I was having a hard time spending a huge amount of money on rain pants but I did end up finding a pair of Berghaus Deluge 2.0 waterproof ¾ zip rain pants on a clearance rack at a gear store in Revelstoke, BC. These had a waterproof guarantee so I figured I would try them. These I’ve now had for over 5 years and they haven’t let me down. They are fully waterproof and breathable with HydroShell 2L fabric that keeps you dry and protected when the weather turns. I treat these pants the same as our jackets when it comes to washing and treating them, with Nikwax.

Tyson used to have Arc’teryx Gore-Tex rain pants but the seam seal came apart and while their gear is guaranteed for life, when he tried to find a replacement pair there was nothing that fit him properly. So he now has Black Diamond Stormline full zip Gore-Tex rain pants which he picked up on a huge sale at VPO in the spring. He was able to get these for just under $150, and so far they are doing their job.

For our girls, we have ThermKids gear. They have two different rain jackets, the SplashMagic Rainshell and the 10K Packaway Rainshell. Both of these jackets are fully seam sealed and are amazing at protecting against the elements. The 10K Packaway is ultra light and packs down really small and it’s our go to for travel. The SplashMagic Rainshell is our girls favourite because when it gets wet a pattern appears. This jacket is 5,000mm waterproof and windproof and its outer and lining are both also made from 100% recycled water bottles. Our girls also wear the Splash Pants which are 5,000mm waterproof as well. Remember when dealing with non Gore-Tex products, (10,000mm and 5,000mm) the higher the number the more waterproof it will be, but it compromises in breathability so you will have to find a peacefull balance for your body and outdoor adventure tolerance when it comes to the weather.

We are very passionate about ThermKids as it’s owned by a mother of two, based in BC, who strongly believes in raising adventurous children while keeping them dry. She makes outdoor gear fun and comfortable, and most importantly waterproof for whatever weather happens. ThermKids has put sustainability at the forefront, making all products from 100% recycled polyester, and all packaging is compostable. Use code RESTLESSCRUSADE to save 15% on ThermKids gear.

So to sum up our rain gear, while Gore-Tex is great and can be found at an affordable rate, there are also other options out there that are just as reliable. Also, keeping your rain gear clean as well as treating it with regular washing and re-waterproofing will get you more longevity in the long run. This will keep you in the mountains for longer, complete with smiling faces!