A man can never have enough jackets. Especially when those jackets are designed for spending quality time outdoors. Paddy Pallin stocks a huge range of jackets, including men's insulated winter jackets, puffer jackets, GORE-TEX and waterproof jackets, along with a variety of mid-layer jackets, pullovers and lightweight fleece jackets. Our jacket range comprises options from leading brands including Patagonia, The North Face, Arc’teryx, Icebreaker, Cotopaxi, Rab, Marmot and more. At Paddy’s, we have a jacket for every adventure.

Men’s Waterproof Jacket & Waterproof Jacket FAQs

What types of jackets does Paddy Pallin sell?

Our range of jackets include men's waterproof jackets, wind-resistant and softshell jackets, insulated and down jackets, heavy and light fleece jackets, puffer jackets and puffer vests, hoodies and pullovers. We also stock a selection of 3-in-1 modular travel jackets that can be worn together or as separate components. Our jackets are suitable for a range of activities such as hiking, travel, climbing, mountaineering, expeditions and camping, as well as everyday use for people with an active lifestyle. Beat the cold this winter with something from our extensive range of warm men’s puffer jackets and waterproof jackets today. If you’re not sure what kind of jacket will be best suited to your needs, our wonderful experienced shop staff and customer services team are always happy to assist and point you in the right direction.

For winter, will I need an insulated jacket and a separate waterproof jacket?

Our ethos when it comes to men's outdoor clothing is always: layers, layers and more layers. In a clothing layering system, you’d have a jacket for warmth (insulated) and another outer jacket for weather protection (waterproof or shell). This allows for maximum versatility, and provides a solution for a wider range of temperatures and conditions than a single stand-alone combined option. However, for less strenuous travel to colder climates and cities, we stock a range of men's winter jackets that are both insulated and waterproof. In some cases, these might be a better option, especially when overheating and versatility is less of a concern.

What different types of waterproof membranes are there?

The category of waterproof breathable jackets is a big one and can be a bit confusing. Some jackets feature licensed technology from external brands, like Rab waterproof jackets that use GORE-TEX. Some other brands use their own proprietary technology. For example, some The North Face waterproof jackets use DryVent, some Patagonia waterproof jackets use H2No® and some Marmot® waterproof jackets use NanoPro™. Paddy Pallin has a wide range of 2, 2.5 and 3 layer waterproof jackets, suitable for a range of activities and budgets. 

Do you recommend choosing a jacket or a vest?

If you’re only going to choose one or the other, we’d always select a jacket. A jacket will provide significantly more warmth and protection than a vest. However, vests do have a place. With layering systems and for high output activities, a vest can be really useful. You’ll be less likely to overheat in a vest, and when combined with a jacket it can add just enough extra insulation to the torso without restricting your arms, which can be great for active high-output activities like climbing.

How is a puffer jacket or puffer vest different to a fleece jacket?

Both puffer jackets and fleece jackets have their benefits, however they excel in different situations. The main difference between these styles is the materials used in manufacturing. Puffer jackets are often quilted or baffled, with the internal quilting being filled with either down or synthetic fibres, whereas fleece jackets are made with a single thick layer of wool or polyester. Puffer vests or jackets are often very lightweight and commonly known for the combination of warmth and freedom of movement, perfect for highly strenuous activities such as climbing or running. In contrast, fleece jumpers are often moderately heavier, using a single layer designed with warmth and comfort in mind, making them great for lower exertion activities like walking. Whilst both materials are warm, they excel as part of a layering system.

Can I try on the jackets at Paddy Pallin for size?

Yes! All Paddy Pallin stores have change rooms and mirrors to make choosing the ideal jacket an easy task. We also suggest trying on a mid-layer underneath your jacket, to make sure you’ll have enough space to layer-up in really cold conditions.

Do the men's winter jackets at Paddy Pallin have temperature ratings?

The short answer is, no. There are so many variables when it comes to how warm a jacket will be. What else are you wearing? What activities use it for? How does your body react to fluctuations in temperature? What did you eat for lunch? However, there is a basic rule of thumb for the warmth of insulated clothing: the thicker or puffier a jacket is, the warmer it will be. Windchill is also going to affect the warmth of a jacket. Most insulated jackets will have windproof or wind-resistant properties, which will inherently keep you warmer and protected from the wind. It is always essential to plan ahead for your trip to make sure that you are heading out with the appropriate level of warm clothing. Our friendly staff members in-store can help point you in the right direction to find the perfect puffer jacket, fleece jacket, hoodie, or waterproof jacket for your next adventure.

How do I care for my GORE-TEX jacket or waterproof jacket?

Taking good care of your new waterproof jacket is vital. If left unwashed for too long, dirt and oils from your skin will eventually damage the waterproof membranes that make your shell jacket so useful. If you notice that water is no longer beading off the fabric, and that rain soaks into the outer layer - it’s time for some TLC! First, you’ll want to wash the garment using a specialised cleaner such as Nikwax Tech Wash as this will not damage the membrane or the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment on the garment. If you’ve had the jacket for a while, it might also be time to re-treat the DWR coating. After washing, you can then apply a topical treatment such as Nikwax TX Direct Spray to revitalise the DWR properties. Store your waterproof jacket by hanging it up in a dry and well-ventilated area. For more info, check out our blog on how to wash your rain jacket.

Why do I still feel wet under my waterproof jacket whilst hiking in hot rainy weather?

A waterproof jacket isn't going to keep you dry in ALL conditions. The effectiveness of a jacket very much depends on a few key factors: what jacket you’re wearing, the climatic conditions, and how you’re using it. The quality of Paddy Pallin’s range of men's waterproof jackets is very high, but not all jackets are designed equal. For example, a top of the range GORE-TEX 3-layer waterproof jacket is designed to keep you warm and dry through prolonged periods of torrential rain. Some moisture might still creep in, near the arm and neck openings, but overall you should remain dry underneath. A jacket without a waterproof membrane, however, will not keep you dry for as long. There are also many factors that can reduce the effectiveness of a waterproof jacket. If you’re in a hot, humid, rainy climate where you’re working hard and exerting yourself, the jacket’s membrane might not be able to function efficiently. Basically, you’ll be sweating and feel wet because of the sweat build up inside the jacket - not because the rain has leaked through the jacket. Likewise, if your jacket is well worn and needs a wash, it may no longer perform as it did when new. Paddy Pallin stock jacket options that will be suited to a wide variety of activities and climates. From super cold and snowy, to mega hot, humid and high-output adventures. Be sure to seek the advice of a Paddy Pallin staff member if you’re unsure which jacket is right for you.

Does Paddy Pallin stock sustainable men’s jacket options?

At Paddy Pallin, we love sharing and experiencing the outdoors, but we’re also passionate about protecting the natural world. Part of this is working with brands who share and embody these beliefs. Many of the brands Paddy Pallin stocks are industry leaders in producing sustainable, ethical and recycled products. Patagonia for example is well known for producing top-quality hard-wearing clothes, without causing unnecessary harm to our planet. A range of brands also produce jackets using recycled materials, including Rab, The North Face, and Cotopaxi. Through our Don’t Bag the Environment campaign, we donate 20c to an environmental or conservation effort every time a customer declines to take a bag.