Finland is known for its changing seasons and weather conditions that some might even call “challenging”. When wind, rain and snow can be waiting behind every bend of the road, it pays to have a pair of waterproof shell trousers on you – or at least in your pack. They are a cornerstone of outdoor clothing, and with the right base and mid layers, one pair can serve you all year round.

So, which ones should you pick from all the options available?

There’s no single answer that would satisfy everyone’s needs, but these tips will put you on the right track. Be sure to also check out our Luhta Outdoor Store spring 2022 outdoor trousers overview.

1. Determine your level of rain protection

Many different fabrics are described as waterproof, but water resistance is really more “shades of grey” than “black or white”.

Waterproofness depends on the pressure exerted on the fabric

A light drizzle doesn’t have much pressure behind it, but strong winds and sitting or kneeling on wet ground will significantly increase the pressure, making it possible for water to penetrate weaker membranes.

The water column rating tells you how much water pressure the fabric can withstand

A 5 000 mm rating is enough to stop rain under normal use. If you’re spending longer times in heavy rain, you should opt for at least a 10 000–20 000 mm rating, and for the toughest storms, pick a GORE-TEX fabric with a water column rating of 28 000 mm.

2. Don’t skimp on breathability

When running, hiking, or otherwise getting sweaty, it is important to make sure that the warm, moist air isn’t trapped inside your clothes. This is why breathable waterproof membranes have tiny pores in them, which are too small for water to get in, but big enough for water vapour to make it out.

The higher the breathability rating, the better the moisture can escape your clothes.

5 000 g/m2/24h is enough for basic use, but when moving fast or carrying heavy loads, a breathability rating of at least 10 000–15 000 g/m2/24h is recommended.

Keep your ventilation options open

Having special ventilation zips on the legs is big plus when you need to get rid of excess heat, but even something as simple as opening any pocket zips can provide some relief.

3. Consider the layers within the layers

There are many ways to make a waterproof garment. The type of construction affects both the feel and functionality of the item.

2 layers for most users

In a 2-layer construction, the waterproof membrane is bonded to the outer fabric while the lining hangs loosely inside. Two-layer trousers are usually cheaper and lighter than three-layer trousers.

3 layers for heavy use and challenging terrain

In three-layer trousers, the outer fabric, waterproof membrane and lining are all bonded together, which keeps the membrane better protected from wear and tear, increasing durability in tough conditions.

2.5 layers for going ultralight

2.5-layer fabrics replace the lining with a very thin protective print applied directly to the inside of the membrane. These types of clothes are thin, lightweight and highly packable, but the thin fabric usually isn’t as durable as 2- or 3-layer counterparts, meaning you need to be a bit more careful.

4. Weigh your need for pockets

If you know you’ll be going long distances even in rainy conditions, it’s a good idea to choose trousers with pockets – cargo pockets are especially useful for carrying everything you might need while on the move.

If, however, you only use your waterproof shell as a backup – to get you to the nearest shelter where you can wait out the rain before continuing on – you can save some weight and space by skipping pockets altogether.

5. Adjust to the surroundings

Zippers on the legs make it easier to get dressed and may even remove the need to take off your boots.

Elastic drawcords or hook-and-loop tabs are a handy addition and help keep snow, dirt and debris out.

If you’re wearing tall hiking boots, make sure that the trousers fit comfortably over the shaft – otherwise you’ll risk water running straight down the leg into your boot!

Extra tip: Less can be more

Remember that all extra features add to the weight and bulk of your trousers. Consider carefully whether you really need things like snow gaiters, reinforcements, extra adjustment options, braces and such. Sure, if you’re going mountaineering, these things may be essential, but be realistic – one pair of trousers doesn’t need to do everything, so choose your equipment based on the activities you’ll most likely be doing.