When it comes to staying dry during Britain’s unpredictable weather, nothing beats a proper Gore-Tex jacket. From sudden downpours to persistent drizzle, these waterproof shells have become essential kit for serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Gore-Tex technology remains the gold standard for waterproof breathable fabrics, offering the perfect balance of weather protection and comfort that you need for British conditions. The latest models feature improved sustainability credentials, better breathability, and enhanced durability – all while maintaining that bombproof waterproofing Gore-Tex is famous for.
In this guide, I’ve compiled the top Gore-Tex jackets available, covering options for men, women, and unisex designs across all budgets. From lightweight packable shells for summer hiking to heavy-duty mountaineering jackets for winter conditions, you’ll find the perfect Gore-Tex jacket for your adventures.
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Why Choose a Gore-Tex Jacket for Hiking?
Gore-Tex’s unique membrane technology creates microscopic pores that are 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet but 700 times larger than water vapour molecules. This means rain stays out while sweat can escape – crucial for maintaining comfort during active pursuits in Britain’s changeable climate.
Modern Gore-Tex variants include Gore-Tex Pro for maximum durability, Gore-Tex Active for high-output activities, and Gore-Tex Paclite for ultralight packability. Many of the best waterproof jackets you can buy feature Gore-Tex membranes, and for good reason – the technology has been refined over decades to deliver reliable performance when you need it most.
What are the Best Gore-Tex Jackets
I’ve selected jackets across different price points and activities. All prices are approximate in GBP and available from major UK outdoor retailers.
At a Glance:
- Best Overall: Arc’teryx Beta Jacket – bombproof all-round hardshell
- Best Value: Mountain Equipment Makalu – high-end features at mid-range price
- Best Budget: Sprayway Vihar/Era – genuine Gore-Tex under £150
- Best Lightweight: Montane Pac Plus XT – packable yet fully featured
Arc’teryx Beta Jacket
Best Overall Gore-Tex Shell
Key Benefits
- Premium Gore-Tex Pro construction
- Lightweight design at just 415g without compromising protection
- Helmet-compatible hood with multiple adjustment points
- Underarm pit zips for ventilation during high-output activities
- Reinforced high-wear areas withstand heavy backpack use
The Arc’teryx Beta Jacket represents the pinnacle of Gore-Tex shell design, balancing uncompromising weather protection with thoughtful functionality. Built with Gore-Tex Pro 3-layer construction and 80D face fabric, it delivers bombproof waterproofing while remaining surprisingly light for such a robust jacket.
The helmet-compatible hood features multiple adjustment points and a reinforced brim that keeps rain off your face in driving conditions. Two-way front zip and pit zips allow precise temperature control, while the longer back hem provides extra coverage when wearing a backpack. Internal pockets keep essentials secure, and the clean design eliminates snag points for technical use.
Available in both men’s and women’s versions with identical technical specifications, sizing runs from XS to XXL.
Pros and Cons of Arc’teryx Beta Jacket
What I Like
- Outstanding build quality justifies the premium price
- Exceptionally lightweight for a bombproof 3-layer shell
- Hood design works perfectly with helmets or beanies
- Pit zips prevent overheating during intense activity
What I Dislike
- Very expensive at around £450-500
- Minimal pocket space compared to walking-focused jackets
- Overkill for casual day hiking or dog walking
Mountain Equipment Makalu Jacket
Best Value Performance Gore-Tex
Key Benefits
- Latest Gore-Tex ePE membrane is PFC-free and eco-friendly
- Alpine-focused design with storm collar and reinforced areas
- Underarm pit zips and two-way front zip for ventilation
- Longer cut provides better coverage with backpack
- Helmet-compatible hood with wire-reinforced peak
The Mountain Equipment Makalu delivers high-end performance at a more accessible price point. This jacket features the latest Gore-Tex ePE membrane technology, which eliminates harmful PFCs while maintaining exceptional waterproofing and breathability.
Built for serious mountain use, the Makalu uses 75D 3-layer construction with reinforced shoulders and elbows where backpack straps cause wear. The alpine-cut design includes a high storm collar, helmet-compatible hood, and longer back panel for comprehensive weather protection. Two chest pockets and two hand pockets provide ample storage for maps and essentials.
Pros and Cons of Mountain Equipment Makalu
What I Like
- Outstanding value with features typically found on £400+ jackets
- Gore-Tex ePE technology is more environmentally friendly
- Robust construction handles heavy use and abuse
- Hood design is exceptionally well thought out
What I Dislike
- Slightly boxy fit may not suit everyone
- Limited stretch in fabric can feel restrictive
- Weighs more than ultralight alternatives at 520g
Rab Kangri GTX Jacket
Best All-Round British Design
Key Benefits
- British-designed specifically for UK conditions and use
- Gore-Tex 3-layer construction with 70D face fabric
- Two large hand pockets plus a chest pocket that can fit OS maps
- Adjustable hood works well over warm hats
The Rab Kangri represents British outdoor design at its best – practical, durable, and built for the conditions we actually face in the UK. This is the jacket you’ll see on fell runners in the Lakes, winter walkers in Scotland, and weekend hikers throughout Britain.
Built with Gore-Tex 3-layer construction and a 70D face fabric, the Kangri strikes the right balance between durability and weight. The cut is designed for hiking rather than climbing – slightly longer for better coverage, with generous pockets sized for OS maps and winter gloves. The hood adjusts well over beanies and balaclavas without being overly voluminous.
What sets the Kangri apart is its reliability. This isn’t a jacket that will let you down when conditions turn nasty, and the reasonable price makes it accessible to most hikers.
Pros and Cons of Rab Kangri GTX Jacket
What I Like
- Sensible design prioritises function over flashy features
- Large pockets are genuinely useful for hikers
- Reliable waterproofing in prolonged heavy rain
- Good value for a genuine 3-layer Gore-Tex jacket
What I Dislike
- No pit zips can lead to overheating on steep climbs
- Heavier than modern lightweight alternatives
- Conservative styling won’t appeal to everyone
Montane Pac Plus XT
Best Lightweight Packable Gore-Tex
Key Benefits
- Gore-Tex Paclite Plus 2.5L fabric weighs just 380g
- Packs down extremely small for easy travel
- Helmet-compatible hood with excellent peripheral vision
- Underarm ventilation zips despite minimal weight
- Reinforced high-wear areas prevent premature failure
The Montane Pac Plus XT proves you don’t have to sacrifice features to save weight. Built with Gore-Tex Paclite Plus 2.5-layer construction, this British-designed jacket weighs just 380g while including proper ventilation zips and a fully adjustable hood.
Despite using lightweight 40D ripstop face fabric, Montane has reinforced high-wear areas to improve durability. The hood design is particularly impressive – it adjusts well over helmets but doesn’t feel oversized when worn without headgear. Underarm zips provide ventilation options often missing on ultralight shells.
This jacket excels for fastpacking, travel, and any situation where you need genuine Gore-Tex protection without the bulk and weight of traditional shells.
Pros and Cons of Montane Pac Plus XT
What I Like
- Impressively lightweight without feeling flimsy
- Packs down smaller than most rain jackets
- Ventilation zips are rare on jackets this light
- Hood works well for its size and weight
What I Dislike
- Athletic cut runs small – size up for layering
- Paclite technology less breathable than 3-layer Gore-Tex
- Not ideal for heavy use in rough terrain
Berghaus Cornice III Jacket
Best for Walking & Everyday Use
Key Benefits
- Classic design works for outdoor activities and casual wear
- Gore-Tex 2L with mesh lining adds warmth and comfort
- Interactive zip system connects to Berghaus fleece jackets
- Extra-long cut protects hips and lower back
- Multiple pockets include map-sized chest pocket
The Berghaus Cornice III is a proper British walking jacket, designed for the realities of hiking in the UK rather than magazine photoshoots. This is the jacket your dad probably owns, and there’s a good reason it’s remained largely unchanged for years – the design simply works.
Built with Gore-Tex 2-layer construction and a mesh drop-liner, the Cornice III offers more warmth than a pure shell jacket. The longer cut provides excellent coverage, while the roll-away hood tucks neatly into the collar when not needed. Multiple pockets include a chest pocket sized for OS maps and hand pockets that actually warm your hands.
The interactive zip system allows you to attach compatible Berghaus fleece jackets, creating a versatile layering system for British conditions.
Pros and Cons of Berghaus Cornice/Glissade III
What I Like
- Excellent coverage and weather protection
- Interactive zip system adds versatility
- Comfortable mesh lining feels warmer than pure shells
What I Dislike
- Heavy and bulky compared to modern shells
- Takes up significant pack space when not worn
- Traditional styling won’t suit everyone
Sprayway Vihar
Best Budget Gore-Tex Under £150
Key Benefits
- Genuine Gore-Tex 2-layer construction at budget price
- Recycled polyester face fabric with PFC-free DWR treatment
- Lightweight and packable
- Adjustable hood moves naturally with head movement
The Sprayway Vihar (men’s) and Era (women’s) prove you don’t need to spend £300+ to get genuine Gore-Tex protection. These jackets strip away non-essential features to deliver waterproof performance at a price that won’t break the bank.
Built with Gore-Tex 2-layer construction and a simple drop-liner, both jackets keep you completely dry during heavy downpours. The recycled polyester face fabric includes PFC-free DWR treatment, showing environmental consideration even at this price point.
Design is refreshingly simple – adjustable hood, two hand pockets, one inner pocket, and reliable Gore-Tex waterproofing. Build quality is solid, though not quite at the level of premium brands.
Pros and Cons of Sprayway Vihar/Era
What I Like
- Outstanding value for genuine Gore-Tex construction
- Effective waterproofing outperforms many expensive alternatives
- Eco-friendly touches at a budget price point
- Light enough for travel and emergency use
What I Dislike
- Main zip can be stiff and awkward with cold hands
- External pockets positioned awkwardly for comfortable use
- Snug fit requires sizing up for layering
Berghaus MTN Guide GTX Pro
Best for Extreme Conditions
Key Benefits
- Gore-Tex Pro “Most Rugged” fabric with stretch panels
- Professional-grade features including harness-compatible pockets
- Helmet-compatible hood with multiple adjustment points
- Five pockets including insulated electronics pocket
- Bluesign-approved fabrics for environmental responsibility
The Berghaus MTN Guide GTX Pro is built for serious mountain use where failure isn’t an option. Part of Berghaus’s Extrem range, this jacket incorporates Gore-Tex Pro stretch technology for mobility while maintaining maximum weather protection.
Professional features include harness-compatible pocket placement, easy-grab zipper pulls that work with heavy gloves, and reinforced high-wear areas. The helmet-compatible hood adjusts precisely for different headgear, while the high collar provides additional storm protection.
At 650g, this isn’t a jacket for casual use, but for winter mountaineering, ski touring, and serious alpine adventures, the MTN Guide delivers uncompromising protection.
Pros and Cons of Berghaus MTN Guide GTX Pro
What I Like
- Built to withstand the most challenging conditions
- Thoughtful details for technical mountain use
- Gore-Tex Pro stretch panels improve mobility
- Professional-grade reliability and durability
What I Dislike
- Very expensive at around £450
- Heavy and too warm for most hiking conditions
- Professional features are overkill for casual use
Haglöfs Astral GTX Jacket
Best for Comfort & All-Weather Protection
Key Benefits
- Gore-Tex 3-layer construction with comfortable mesh lining
- Six pockets including multiple map-sized options
- Exceptionally comfortable fit with generous cut for layering
- Underarm ventilation zips for temperature control
- Longer cut provides excellent coverage and weather protection
The Haglöfs Astral GTX is a Swedish-designed jacket that prioritises comfort without compromising on weather protection, featuring a mesh lining that adds warmth and prevents the clammy feeling common with pure shell jackets.
What sets the Astral apart is its thoughtful pocket configuration – six pockets in total, including hand pockets large enough for OS maps and even a sleeve pocket for quick access items. The generous cut works brilliantly for layering, while adjustable drawcords at hood, cuffs, and hem allow precise fit adjustment for different conditions.
The Gore-Tex 3-layer construction handles prolonged heavy rain with ease, while underarm vents prevent overheating during steep climbs. The longer cut and high collar provide comprehensive coverage that serious hikers will appreciate.
Pros and Cons of Haglöfs Astral GTX Jacket
What I Like
- Outstanding comfort from mesh lining and generous fit
- Exceptional pocket space and organisation for hikers
- Reliable waterproofing performs well in sustained rain
- Adjustable fit works with various layers and conditions
What I Dislike
- Front zip can be tricky to engage, especially with gloves
- Generous fit may feel boxy on slimmer builds
- Heavier than minimal shells due to extra features and lining
How to Choose the Right Gore-Tex Jacket
Matching Jacket Type to Your Activity
Lightweight Gore-Tex (Paclite/Active): Perfect for trail running, fastpacking, and summer hiking where weight matters more than maximum durability. These jackets prioritise packability and breathability.
3-Layer Gore-Tex: The sweet spot for most hikers, offering excellent waterproofing, good breathability, and reasonable durability for regular use.
Gore-Tex Pro: Built for mountaineering, winter hiking, and professional use where maximum durability and weather protection are essential.
Key Features to Look For
Hood Design: Look for helmet-compatible hoods if you climb or cycle, with multiple adjustment points and wire-reinforced brims to keep rain off your face. The hood should turn with your head rather than restricting vision.
Pocket Configuration: Map-sized chest pockets are essential for hikers using OS maps. Hand pockets should be positioned above your rucksack waistbelt. Internal pockets keep valuables secure and dry.
Ventilation Options: Pit zips are crucial for high-output activities, allowing you to dump excess heat without removing the jacket. Two-way front zips also help with temperature regulation.
Cut and Length: Alpine cuts work with climbing harnesses but may feel short for walking. Longer cuts provide better coverage with rucksacks. Consider your primary activities when choosing.
Gore-Tex Variants Explained
Gore-Tex Pro: Highest durability and waterproofing, used in mountaineering jackets. Less breathable but bombproof in extreme conditions.
Gore-Tex Active: Optimised for high-output activities with maximum breathability. Found in running and cycling jackets.
Gore-Tex Paclite: Lightest option designed for packability. Perfect for emergency use and travel.
Gore-Tex ePE: Latest eco-friendly technology eliminating harmful PFCs while maintaining performance.
Final Thoughts
The right Gore-Tex jacket transforms your hiking experience, providing confidence to tackle challenging weather while maintaining comfort through changing conditions. These 2025 recommendations represent the best options available from UK retailers, covering every budget and activity level.
Consider your primary activities, typical weather conditions, and budget when making your choice. Remember that even the best jacket needs proper care – regular washing and reproofing will keep it performing for years to come.
For your complete outdoor kit, consider pairing your new Gore-Tex jacket with quality hiking boots and waterproof trousers for head-to-toe weather protection.
No matter what the British weather throws at you, a proper Gore-Tex jacket in your pack means you’re ready for whatever adventures await on the fells, moors, and mountains of the UK.
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FAQs about Gore-Tex Jackets
Are Gore-Tex jackets really 100% waterproof?
Yes, Gore-Tex membranes are designed to be completely waterproof when properly maintained. The membrane blocks water droplets while allowing vapour through. However, if the outer DWR coating wears off, water can soak into the face fabric, reducing breathability though the membrane remains waterproof.
Do I need to reproof a Gore-Tex jacket, and how?
Yes, over time the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating wears off and needs refreshing. First, wash the jacket with technical cleaner like Nikwax Tech Wash. Then apply DWR treatment via spray or wash-in product. Finally, tumble dry on low heat or carefully iron to activate the new coating.
Are Gore-Tex jackets also warm?
Gore-Tex shells provide wind protection but minimal insulation. They’re designed as outer layers in a layering system. For warmth, add fleece or down mid-layers underneath. Some Gore-Tex jackets include light insulation, but most are purely waterproof shells.
What’s the difference between Gore-Tex and cheaper waterproof fabrics?
Gore-Tex consistently delivers better long-term waterproofing and breathability than most alternatives. Budget membranes often fail sooner, become less breathable over time, or don’t handle washing as well. Gore-Tex’s proven track record and guarantee provide confidence for serious outdoor use.
How long will a Gore-Tex jacket last?
With proper care, a quality Gore-Tex jacket can last 5-10 years of regular use. High-end models with robust face fabrics last longest. Eventually, the DWR will need more frequent renewal and zips may wear out, but the membrane itself remains effective for many years.
Learn More
Like this review? Well, you’re in luck as I’ve got a bunch of other great resources for you to explore here…
- Wild Camping: The Complete Beginner’s Guide
- Best Tents For Wild Camping
- Best Hammocks + Best Bivvy Bags
- Best Portable Camping Fire Pits
- Best Places for Wild Camping Wales, Scotland and The Lake District
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About the Author
Steve Cleverdon is an outdoor adventure specialist with 15+ years of hiking, camping, and paddle boarding experience. He has conquered Europe’s toughest trails including the GR20 in Corsica, walked 3,000km solo across New Zealand, and worked professionally in the outdoors industry. Steve’s gear reviews and recommendations are based on real-world testing across four continents, from coastal waters to mountain peaks. Learn more about Steve or get in touch.
