Rain does more than test a garment’s waterproofness; it tests how well an entire clothing system works together. During activity, the body produces heat and water vapour that need to escape, while liquid water from outside must be kept out. AYAQ has designed three hardshells that strike this balance in all conditions: SKORA (men / women), LONAK-XT (men / women) and LONAK (men / women). All three use the most waterproof hydrophilic membrane in the outdoor world, tested to 52,000 Schmerbers — an exceptional level never before achieved in the industry.
1. Understanding how AYAQ hardshells work in the rain
The three AYAQ hardshells share four core features: an ultralight membrane (170 g/m²), record waterproofness (52,000 Schmerbers), very good breathability (RET < 12) and no PFCs whatsoever. All are non-insulated, making them suitable for year-round use simply by combining the right base layer and midlayer.
Rain alone, then, does not dictate which model to choose: your activity, the terrain and the features you need are what guide the decision.
2. Three hardshells, three approaches to facing the rain
SKORA (men / women) — simplicity with outstanding performance. Set-in sleeves, a clean cut, a ski pass pocket and maximum efficiency. This is the ultimate versatile hardshell: lightweight, compact and highly waterproof, perfectly suited to rain when hiking, skiing, trekking or going about everyday life in changeable weather.
LONAK-XT (men / women) — developed with a leading European ski school. Designed for the most demanding environments: two chest pockets, rear pockets, two climbing skin pockets, adjustment points throughout and an integrated RECCO system. This is the “expedition” hardshell, the one you wear to climb high peaks or navigate challenging terrain in driving rain.
LONAK (men / women) — AYAQ’s signature piece. The only hardshell on the market with raglan sleeves and external taping inspired by traditional Inuit decorative bands, a reminder that “AYAQ” means “snow on clothing”. This design earned the brand an innovation award. In the rain, LONAK (men / women) offers a remarkable balance: fluid movement, complete protection and a distinctive identity.
3. Why these three hardshells excel in the rain
Sympatex hydrophilic membrane. Its non-microporous structure does not clog with sweat, sunscreen or impurities. Even when saturated with water, it continues to breathe and release water vapour from inside. In heavy rain, this is a decisive advantage: breathability remains stable.
52,000 Schmerbers. A rating never before achieved in the outdoor industry. It means that even in prolonged, wind-driven, heavy rain, water does not pass through the membrane.
RET < 12. Breathability rated “very good”: even during moderate or intense activity, the water vapour produced by exertion continues to move outwards.
170 g/m². The membrane is extremely lightweight, allowing for a thin, packable jacket that remains suited to active use in the rain.
0 PFCs. No fluorinated treatments, no PFCs and no compromise on performance.
4. Building your three-layer system for rain
A hardshell’s effectiveness depends as much on what you wear underneath as on its membrane-based performance.
- RWS merino base layer: BIAFO (men / women) or MEFONNA (men / women) for sustained activity, SHIRWALI (men / women) for colder days. Merino retains its insulating properties even when damp and helps keep your temperature stable.
- Breathable midlayer: KOKANEE (men / women) for active use, MEOLA for gentler warmth. The aim is to buffer temperature changes while allowing moisture to escape from within.
- The right hardshell: SKORA (men / women) for versatile simplicity, LONAK (men / women) for signature technical design, LONAK-XT (men / women) for demanding or very wet outings.
It is the combination of all three layers that ensures you stay dry inside as well as out.
5. The lower body: often overlooked
Rain on your thighs causes rapid cooling. The NUNATAK (men / women) trousers use the same high-performance hydrophilic membrane as AYAQ hardshells: complete waterproofness, controlled ventilation and consistent performance even when saturated. In mixed conditions, the RIMO (men / women) softshell is sufficient if the rain is intermittent and your activity level remains high.
6. Why AYAQ hardshells make sense for rain
All AYAQ hardshells are made in Europe using Italian, French, German and Portuguese fabrics. Their highly technical construction, record-breaking waterproof membrane, movement-focused cut and absence of PFCs make them well suited to light, moderate or sustained rain.
Ultimately, “gearing up for rain” is not about choosing the heaviest or thickest jacket, but the one best suited to your activity: SKORA (men / women) for simplicity and performance, LONAK (men / women) for distinctive technical design, LONAK-XT (men / women) for the most demanding adventures. Three different ways to stay fully in control of your temperature, breathability and comfort — even in the rain.
