Ask the expert - with Rohan

“Are all waterproofs ‘shells’, i.e. thin and not warm, and all insulated jackets non-waterproof?”
— Country Walking reader

Rohan’s York Store Manager, Anthony  explains why you would use  a non-insulated waterproof over an insulated waterproof jacket

Anthony York - Rohan’s York Store Manager

When you are looking into the differences between the variety of waterproof jackets you can buy, whether it be an insulated waterproof or non-insulated waterproof, you have to consider your activity.

If I was heading for a trek in the hills and mountains, I would wear the Ventus Jacket, which is 3-Layer Barricade Standard waterproof that has a Durable Water Repellency finish which means any water droplets  bead up and run off the outer rather than soaking the fabric. I love the pit venting zips under the arms, giving me the option to cool myself down when I need to. This jacket is not insulated, I do not want it to be, I do not need a waterproof to be insulated when I am on an active and tough trek. If I do need extra warmth I would wear a Merino Union 150 Crew as one of my layers underneath the jacket.

However, if I was going to walk along a coastal path in the winter, I would choose the Alberta Jacket, a 2-Layer Barricade Standard waterproof which is ultra-warm, an ideal jacket when the winter winds are biting, the cold wind is blowing and the rain is pouring down. This jacket includes Sorona insulation which offers a fluffy, soft, warm and cosy defence against the winter chill.

So you see, some waterproofs are not insulated and some are which means some are warmer than others. All Rohan waterproofs have the Barricade Standard and are windproof, breathable and have a choice of fit, fabric and treatment. From more casual, everyday protection to expedition style, there is the opportunity to choose the right waterproof for your activity.