A quality hardshell is more than just protection: it’s a thermal regulator, a performance partner, and a safety guarantee in all weather. AYAQ has developed four hardshells tailored to specific uses, all made in Europe and featuring the world’s most waterproof outdoor membrane, tested up to 52,000 Schmerbers. SKORA (men’s / women’s), LONAK-XT (men’s / women’s), LONAK (men’s / women’s) and BATURA share the same standard: full protection without compromising breathability, even under intense effort or saturated conditions.
1. A unique membrane: ultra-light, ultra-waterproof, ultra-breathable
All AYAQ hardshells use an ultra-light hydrophilic membrane (170 g/m²), tested to a record waterproof rating of 52,000 Schmerbers, among the highest in the outdoor industry. They also feature breathability rated at RET < 12, considered “very good” for intense activities. Unlike microporous membranes, the hydrophilic membrane never clogs: even when saturated, it continues to expel water vapor.
Another constant: 0 PFC on all AYAQ products.
2. SKORA (men’s / women’s) — simplicity, performance, versatility
The SKORA (men’s / women’s) is a minimalist hardshell designed for those seeking a lightweight, simple, and effective piece. Set-in sleeves, a lift ticket pocket, and streamlined ergonomics make it the go-to jacket year-round: rain, wind, demanding hikes, ski touring, summer alpine climbing. Its clean construction highlights the membrane’s performance: extreme waterproofing, consistent breathability, reliable protection in all seasons.
3. LONAK-XT (men’s / women’s) — maximum functionality, developed with a top ski school
A direct evolution of the SKORA (men’s / women’s), the LONAK-XT (men’s / women’s) adds technical features designed for demanding environments. Developed with one of Europe’s leading ski schools, it includes:
- two chest pockets,
- revolver pockets,
- two skin pockets,
- advanced cinches for adjustable protection,
- an integrated RECCO system.
It offers the same waterproof and breathable performance as the SKORA (men’s / women’s), with ergonomics more suited to technical mountain terrain and strong winds. Ideal for challenging days, long exposed outings, or expeditions where every functional detail matters.
4. LONAK (men’s / women’s) — AYAQ’s iconic piece, Inuit heritage and award-winning innovation
The LONAK (men’s / women’s) is the brand’s flagship hardshell. It’s the only jacket on the market with raglan sleeves and an external taping inspired by Inuit decorative bands, reflecting that “AYAQ” means “snow on clothing.” This aesthetic and technical choice earned AYAQ an innovation award. The LONAK (men’s / women’s) combines great freedom of movement, total rain and wind protection, and a strong identity rooted in the brand’s history and spirit.
Perfect for varied terrain, alpine climbing, demanding hikes, ski touring, windy traverses, and long days in unstable conditions.
5. BATURA — AYAQ’s only insulated hardshell
The BATURA is unique: the only AYAQ hardshell with premium insulation. It meets a very specific need: cold and damp, cold rain, heavy snow, or days alternating between effort and rest. It combines the ultra-waterproof/breathable membrane with stable insulation, making it the most protective piece in the range when weather turns hostile.
Ideal for skiing, winter mountaineering, cold and wet hiking, or any situation where retaining heat between efforts is critical.
6. How to choose your AYAQ hardshell?
There is no performance difference between SKORA (men’s / women’s) and LONAK-XT (men’s / women’s): same membrane, same general use, same protection. The difference lies in:
- simplicity — SKORA (men’s / women’s), for those wanting lightweight and straightforward,
- advanced functionality — LONAK-XT (men’s / women’s), for demanding terrain,
- strong identity and freedom of movement — LONAK (men’s / women’s), the iconic piece,
- cold and damp conditions — BATURA, the only insulated hardshell.
The three non-insulated hardshells (SKORA (men’s / women’s), LONAK-XT (men’s / women’s), LONAK (men’s / women’s)) are suitable year-round, in all weather, worldwide. Their membrane, tested at record levels, ensures remarkable consistency over time.
7. Three-layer system: the key to maximizing these jackets
To fully benefit from SKORA (men’s / women’s), LONAK-XT (men’s / women’s), LONAK (men’s / women’s) and BATURA, the three-layer system remains the most reliable method:
- RWS merino base layer (BIAFO (men’s / women’s), MEFONNA (men’s / women’s), SHIRWALI (men’s / women’s), ISEO) to stabilize moisture and temperature.
- Breathable midlayer (KOKANEE (men’s / women’s), MEOLA) to create a warm air layer.
- Appropriate hardshell depending on intensity, terrain, and weather.
In rain, snow, wind, or changing environments, an AYAQ hardshell is not just a barrier: it’s a tool designed to support effort, protect the body, and maintain freedom of movement without sacrificing breathability or durability.
SKORA (men’s / women’s), LONAK-XT (men’s / women’s), LONAK (men’s / women’s) and BATURA form a coherent quartet: four technical solutions from the same DNA, 100% made in Europe from French, Italian, German, and Portuguese materials, designed to withstand the harshest conditions — supporting explorers year-round.
