Women's Outdoor Textile French Days

Water column and breathability: reading a jacket's label

The waterproofness of a jacket is measured in water column, expressed in millimetres: this is the height of water that the fabric can withstand before letting in a drop. Beyond ten thousand millimetres, a jacket can handle heavy rain for several hours; around five thousand, it is enough for the showers on a walk. Breathability indicates the amount of sweat vapour the membrane lets escape, in grams per square metre per day. Taped seams, covered with a heat-sealed tape, complete the protection: without them, water can seep through the needle holes. During the French Days, these technical jackets can be compared label to label.

The rest of the gear

The French Days outdoor range also includes:

• Hiking Shoes.
• Trail Shoes.
• Men's Clothing.
• Luggage.
• Equipment, water bottles, lamps, and accessories.

All offers are gathered on the outdoor page.

Fleece and base layer: building a three-layer outfit

To walk warm without sweating, you layer three layers with distinct roles. Next to the skin, a technical top in synthetic or merino fabric wicks moisture away. On top, the fleece provides insulation: the Regatta Sweethart, fastened with a half-zip, opens up on the ascents to release heat and closes during breaks. Finally, the waterproof shell blocks the wind and rain. 3-in-1 jackets, like the Regatta Wentwood, combine both outer layers: the inner fleece zips into the jacket in very cold weather, the shell can be worn alone during spring showers, and the fleece alone in dry and cool conditions.

Long parka or packable jacket: which model for which outing

The length and weight of the jacket depend on the pace of the outing. The parka goes down to mid-thigh and protects the neck and collar under its hood: the Didriksons Ilma and the Killtec Kow keep you warm during slow strolls, city outings, and winter days when you’re on your feet. In contrast, the packable jacket folds into its own pocket or a small pouch: the Mac In A Sac Origin and the Trespass Qikpac fit in one hand and wait at the bottom of the bag for the rain to stop. Between the two, the short hiking jacket, like the Didriksons Jennie, allows freedom of movement at the hips for lifting your leg on ascents.

Rain trousers and poncho: protecting the legs and gear

A jacket alone isn’t enough in heavy rain: water runs down the thighs and soaks the hiking trousers in just a few minutes. The waterproof trousers can be put on over your clothes and taken off as soon as the sky clears; models with zips at the ankles can be pulled on without removing your shoes. The Regatta Pack It folds into its own pocket, while the Regatta Highton is great for long days of bad weather. The poncho Trespass Drylite covers both the walker and their bag, and ventilates from the bottom. This idea of keeping the entire body dry goes way back: Didriksons was established in 1913 in Grundsund, on the west coast of Sweden, by waterproofing fishermen's clothing with oil.

Frequently asked questions

What size of outdoor jacket should I choose if I wear size 46 or 48?

Refer to the chest and hip measurements on the brand's size guide rather than your street size. If you plan to wear a thick fleece underneath, opt for the next size up and check that the jacket closes without pulling at the hips.

How do I re-waterproof a rain jacket?

First, wash the jacket with a detergent designed for technical fabrics, then apply a spray or rinse-in waterproofing treatment. A low-temperature tumble dry or a gentle iron will reactivate the treatment.

Windbreaker or waterproof jacket for walking in dry weather?

In dry and windy weather, the windbreaker is sufficient: lighter and more breathable, it prevents sweating during climbs. As soon as the sky darkens, the waterproof jacket with taped seams takes the lead.

Can a fleece be machine washed?

Yes, at thirty degrees, turned inside out and with a mild detergent, without fabric softener that crushes the fibres. Avoid the tumble dryer and dry it flat: it will maintain its loft and pill less quickly.

Is a lightweight waterproof jacket sufficient in summer?

For summer storms, a thin and packable jacket is ideal: it protects from showers without being too warm and can be stored in a pocket. Prefer a model with underarm vents to wick away heat while walking.