Fjällräven HC Hydratic Trail Jacket: Best Rain Jacket for All-Season Sustainability

After months of testing the Fjällräven HC Hydratic Trail Jacket in a rainy winter and while vacationing in the misty, unpredictable conditions of the coastal Pacific Northwest, I can confidently say it’s an excellent go-to outer layer – especially for anyone who cares about sustainability. Many brands are taking strides toward being more eco-friendly, but Fjällräven has long been considered the best in the industry for its reputation for sustainability and repairability. That makes this one of the first jackets I’d suggest for anyone who wants an everyday rain jacket that won’t end up in a landfill after a couple of seasons.

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How the Fjällräven HC Hydratic Trail Jacket stacks up in real-life conditions

The High Coast looks as good as it performs. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Like all Fjällräven gear I’ve worn, the Hydratic Trail Jacket seems extremely durable. Many lightweight rain shells rely on thin synthetic fabrics that break down over time, especially with frequent use (this is why you shouldn’t wear Gore-Tex and other treated waterproof fabrics in full sun day after day). However, this jacket is made with Fjallraven’s own water-resistant fabric that uses a sustainably wax-type finish, rather than “forever chemicals” (chemicals that eventually end up in the environment, and needless to say, aren’t great for Mother Earth). This allows you to easily re-waterproof the fabric at home with a wax stick, rather than needing to use chemical washes or sprays. That’s a huge win when it comes to using products for years and years without buying new gear, especially as Fjällräven has an absolutely stellar repair program and classic styling that doesn’t look out of place in urban environments.

Photo: Suzie Dundas

I’ve been testing this all winter in Northern California, in what’s arguably the rainiest winter I’ve had in 12 years of living here. While I wouldn’t recommend it for downpours, and the slightly thicker fabric likely means it’s not what I’d take for hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, it’s so far performed really well on day hikes and general rainy days. It has a mid-level (10K) waterproof rating, making it ideal light and medium rainfall, as well as snowy conditions. This seems accurate, and is likely better for everyday use, as fabrics with higher waterproof ratings tend to be less breathable.

I loaned it to a friend on a coastal hike in Oregon, who commented that she appreciated the waterproofing and warmth on exposed ridgelines, but didn’t feel sweaty and overheated while wearing it on the steep inland hike back up to our car. It also has helpful pit zips to dump excess heat in a flash. I’m actually rather surprised by the so-so ratings on some online reviews for the product, other than perhaps the buyers didn’t understand it isn’t designed to act as an umbrella in extended downpours.

What I’d change about the Fjällräven HC Hydratic Trail Jacket

Layering, of sorts, on top of the High Coast. Photo: Suzie Dundas

I would advise that it runs a little large, as I normally wear a size small, and found an XS to be a better fit, even with layers on. It’s a little pricey, but if you want an everyday rain jacket you can rock for the next decade (and are concerned about the ecological impacts of fast fashion), it could be a great choice.

Buy Now – Men’s

Buy Now – Women’s