GUIDE TO CHOOSING A SHELL JACKET
What is a Shell Jacket?
A shell jacket is a trusted companion for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. A well-chosen, high-quality shell jacket is long-lasting and serves its wearer year-round. A good shell jacket provides protection from wind and rain, offers breathability, and withstands heavy use.
A shell jacket typically refers to an outdoor jacket equipped with a waterproof membrane. Its primary function is to shield the wearer from wind and rain. All our shell jackets feature Halti’s own windproof and waterproof DrymaxX® membrane for optimal protection.
Different typed of shell jackets
A shell jacket is a key piece of protective gear for outdoor enthusiasts, and each type of shell jacket offers unique features suited to different activities and needs. 2-layer, 2.5-layer, and 3-layer jackets vary in structure, breathability, and durability. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right jacket for your needs.
- 2-Layer Jackets: These jackets feature a separate outer fabric and an inner waterproof membrane, making them a great option for everyday outdoor activities. While they are often more affordable, they still provide excellent protection against wind and rain and offer comfort for a variety of conditions.
- 2.5-Layer Jackets: Combining a durable outer fabric with a waterproof membrane and a lighter protective coating on the inside, these jackets offer increased breathability compared to 2-layer jackets, making them ideal for active outdoor pursuits. They still maintain durability and offer solid protection from the elements, making them perfect for hiking, traveling, and other versatile uses.
- 3-Layer Jackets: The most advanced option, 3-layer jackets integrate a durable outer fabric, a waterproof membrane, and a protective inner layer, all bonded together. These jackets are built for high performance in demanding conditions, offering exceptional breathability, durability, and protection. They are perfect for mountain environments, intense outdoor adventures, and when you need maximum performance.
When selecting a shell jacket, take the time to review the features of each type to find the one that best fits your specific outdoor activities and conditions.
2-layer shell jacket
Structure: Outer fabric + waterproof membrane + separate inner lining
Use: Basic outdoor activities, everyday use
✅ Soft and comfortable, the separate inner lining adds comfort
✅ Ideal for versatile basic outdoor use and daily wear
✅ Provides excellent protection from rain and wind
⚠️ Not as lightweight and breathable as 2.5-layer or 3-layer jackets
⚠️ Takes up more space when packed
Who is it for? For those who want a comfortable and durable shell jacket for everyday use and outdoor activities.
2-layer shell jackets
Staala DX Shell Jacket Women's
Staala DX Shell Jacket Men's
Forter DX Shell Jacket Women's
Forter DX Shell Jacket Men's
Forter DX Shell Jacket Plus Women's
Kallas DX Parka Jacket Women's
Kallas DX Parka Jacket Men's
Kallas DX Parka Jacket Plus Women's
Biegga Men's DrymaxX Shell Jacket
Biegga Neve DrymaxX Shell Jacket
Biegga Neve DrymaxX Shell Jacket Men's
Biegga Neve Plus DrymaxX Shell Jacket
Biegga Women's DrymaxX Shell Jacket
2,5-layer shell jacket
Structure: Outer fabric + waterproof membrane + thin surface coating (no separate lining)
Use: Hiking, light outdoor activities, travel
✅ Lightweight and easy to pack – compresses into a small space
✅ Highly breathable, ideal for active movement and travel
✅ Provides excellent protection from rain and wind
⚠️ Less comfortable against bare skin compared to 2-layer jackets due to the lack of a separate lining
⚠️ Membrane is not as well-protected from wear and tear as in 2-layer or 3-layer jackets
Who is it for? For those who need a lightweight and breathable jacket for active outdoor use or travel.
2,5-layer shell jackets
Pisarat 2,5L DX Shell Jacket Women's
Pisarat 2,5L DX Shell Jacket Men's
Lastu II Women's DrymaxX 2,5L Shell Jacket
Lastu II Men's DrymaxX 2,5L Shell Jacket
Lastu Women's DrymaxX 2,5L Shell Jacket
Lastu Men's DrymaxX 2,5L Shell Jacket
3-layer shell jacket
Structure: Outer fabric + waterproof membrane + bonded inner surface, all laminated together (no separate lining)
Use: Demanding weather conditions, hiking, mountain environments
✅ Extremely durable and long-lasting, as the membrane is protected from wear
✅ Breathable and waterproof – performs well in challenging weather conditions
✅ Doesn’t absorb moisture, dries quickly
⚠️ Stiffer and slightly heavier than 2.5-layer jackets
Who is it for? For those seeking a durable, weather-resistant, and breathable jacket for more demanding conditions. Ideal for hiking, mountaineering, and other challenging outdoor activities.
3-layer shell jackets
Kajana 3L DX Shell Jacket Women's
Kajana 3L DX Shell Jacket Men's
Liike Women's 3L DrymaxX Wind Jacket
Liike Men's 3L DrymaxX Wind Jacket
Kurvi DrymaxX 3L Parka Jacket Women's
Kurvi Men's DrymaxX 3L Parka Jacket
Kaarna Women's DX 3L Shell Jacket
Kaarna Men's DX 3L Shell Jacket
Hiker Drymaxx 3L Ventilated Jacket Women's
B57 Thyme Green
Hiker DrymaxX 3L Ventilated Jacket Men's
B57 Thyme Green
Alpine 3L DrymaxX Shell Jacket Women's
Alpine Unisex 3L DrymaxX Shell Jacket
Settler 3L DrymaxX Ski Jacket Men's
Settler 3L DrymaxX Ski Jacket Women's
Shelter Stormwall 3L Jacket Men's
