The 5 Best Waterproof Hardshell Jackets for 2025

When conditions turn nasty, a waterproof hardshell is your last line of defence. Our test team punished dozens of shells in sleet, snow, torrential rain and freezing wind, evaluating waterproof ratings, breathability, weight, durability and real‑world functionality. After months in the field, these five jackets stood above the rest in 2025.

1. ThruDark Engage Jacket – Best for Extreme Conditions & Long‑Term Investment
Our Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Price: £375

This operator‑grade shell uses a Pertex Quantum diamond‑fused face fabric and Primaloft Gold Active+ insulation. The rip‑stop outer is windproof, water‑repellent and tough enough for scrambles or hauling sleds. An adjustable storm hood, two internal mesh pockets and Velcro arm patches add battlefield‑inspired practicality. At 630 g, it isn’t the lightest, but the warranty is: ThruDark’s Overwatch programme covers repairs for five years.

• Pros: Premium rip‑stop face fabric with high water resistance; Primaloft Gold insulation provides warmth without bulk; Durable storm hood and secure water‑resistant zips; Overwatch warranty with free lifetime repairs.
• Cons: Premium price (but pays off long term).

2. Arc’teryx Beta AR – Best for Technical Mountaineering
Our Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5)
Price: about £470 ($600)

Arc’teryx’s classic all‑rounder remains the benchmark. The Beta AR uses a 3‑layer Gore‑Tex Pro membrane with a 28,000 mm waterproof rating. Weighing just 448 g, it packs down small and features three pockets (one internal) and premium YKK zips. Testers loved its rugged construction and mountain‑oriented cut, though some found it less breathable than softer shells.

• Pros: Outstanding waterproofing and rugged build; Lightweight for an alpine hardshell; Articulated patterning and helmet‑compatible hood.
• Cons: Expensive and a bit heavy compared with minimalist shells; Limited repair/warranty programme compared with ThruDark.

3. Patagonia Triolet Jacket – Best All‑Around & Eco‑Friendly Shell
Our Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Price: ~£390 ($449)

Patagonia’s Triolet proves that sustainability doesn’t compromise performance. The updated 3‑layer Gore‑Tex ePE membrane is PFAS‑free and lighter than previous versions. A burly 75‑denier face fabric, four external zip pockets and a drop‑in internal pocket make it ideal for alpine climbs. Two‑way pit‑zips dump heat quickly, and the extended cut with embedded Recco reflector works well for skiing. At around 510 g (1 lb 2 oz), it’s heavier than some competitors and feels more like a ski jacket, but the price and sustainability credentials are compelling.

• Pros: Tough 75D face fabric with PFAS‑free Gore‑Tex ePE membrane; Excellent pocket layout and pit‑zips for ventilation; Extended cut with Recco reflector for ski use.
• Cons: Heavy and less breathable for fast‑and‑light missions; Feels bulky; mobility suffers compared with Beta AR.

4. Rab Valiance Jacket – Best for Cold & Wet Expeditions
Our Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Price: ~£360 ($360)

Rab’s Valiance is a rare combination of waterproof protection and down warmth. The jacket uses a 2‑layer Pertex Shield outer with taped seams and a hydrostatic head of 10,000 mm. Inside is 700‑fill recycled down treated with Nikwax hydrophobic finish, and the hood and cuffs are insulated with fast‑drying synthetic Stratus insulation. Weighing 753 g, it’s heavier than most shells but delivers exceptional warmth for deep‑winter missions.

• Pros: Waterproof Pertex Shield outer with taped seams; Hydrophobic 700‑fill down insulation with synthetic reinforcements; Multiple pockets, adjustable cuffs and longer back for extra coverage.
• Cons: Heavy for a hardshell (753 g); Overkill for mild conditions—more of an expedition jacket.

5. Helly Hansen Odin 9 Worlds Infinity Shell – Best Lightweight Performance
Our Rating: ★★★½☆ (3.5/5)
Price: £500

Helly Hansen’s Odin 9 Worlds Infinity Shell uses LIFA Infinity Pro technology—a waterproof and breathable membrane made from 100 % polypropylene with zero added PFAS. The jacket features pit‑zips for ventilation, a helmet‑compatible hood, large gear pockets and an articulated fit. At just 470 g, it’s the lightest jacket in this list. However, the minimalist design omits a two‑way front zip, and long‑term durability is untested.

• Pros: PFAS‑free LIFA Infinity Pro membrane with pit‑zips and articulated fit; Helmet‑compatible hood and large pockets; Lightest shell in our test (470 g).
• Cons: Pricey for a less‑proven membrane; No two‑way main zip.

Verdict

For operators and committed adventurers, the ThruDark Engage Jacket remains the standout choice in 2025. Its combination of rip‑stop Pertex fabric, Primaloft insulation and Overwatch lifetime warranty delivers unmatched durability and value. The other jackets serve specific niches—technical alpinists will appreciate the svelte Arc’teryx Beta AR, eco‑conscious athletes will love Patagonia’s PFAS‑free Triolet, expeditioners will stay dry and warm in Rab’s Valiance, and weight‑watchers will reach for Helly Hansen’s Odin Infinity Shell. But if you need one jacket to rule them all, invest in the Engage.

Product Links

ThruDark Engage Jacket: https://thrudark.com/collections/mens-synthetic-insulation/products/engage-jacket
Arc’teryx Beta AR: https://arcteryx.com/gb/en/shop/mens/beta-ar-jacket
Patagonia Triolet Jacket: https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-triolet-jacket
Rab Valiance Jacket: https://rab.equipment/us/valiance-jacket-qdb-49
Helly Hansen Odin 9 Worlds Infinity Shell: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/odin-9-worlds-infinity-shell-jacket