Rain tests more than just a garment’s waterproofing; it challenges the coherence of the entire system. During exertion, the body generates heat and moisture that must be expelled while blocking external liquid water. AYAQ has developed three hardshells that maintain this balance in all conditions: SKORA (men / women), LONAK-XT (men / women), and the LONAK (men / women). All three feature the world’s most waterproof hydrophilic membrane, tested up to 52,000 Schmerbers—an exceptional level unmatched in the industry.
1. Understanding AYAQ Hardshell Logic in Rain
These three AYAQ hardshells share four core features: an ultra-light membrane (170 g/m²), record waterproofing (52,000 Schmerbers), excellent breathability (RET < 12), and zero PFCs. All are non-insulated, making them suitable for year-round use when paired with the right base and mid layers.
Rain alone doesn’t dictate which model to choose; activity, terrain, and functional needs guide the selection.
2. Three Hardshells, Three Approaches to Rain
SKORA (men / women) — ultra-efficient simplicity. Set-in sleeves, clean cut, a lift pass pocket, maximum efficiency. This is the versatile hardshell: lightweight, packable, highly waterproof, ideal for rain during hiking, skiing, trekking, or daily use in unstable weather.
LONAK-XT (men / women) — developed with a leading European ski school. Designed for the most demanding environments: two chest pockets, revolver pockets, two skin pockets, multiple adjustments, integrated RECCO system. This is the “expedition” hardshell, built for high-altitude ascents or heavy rain on technical terrain.
LONAK (men / women) — AYAQ’s signature piece. The only hardshell on the market with raglan sleeves and an external taping inspired by Inuit decorative bands, reflecting that “AYAQ” means “snow on clothing.” This design earned the brand an innovation award. In rain, the LONAK (men / women) delivers outstanding balance: fluid movement, full protection, and strong identity.
3. Why These Three Hardshells Excel in Rain
Sympatex hydrophilic membrane. Non-microporous, it doesn’t clog with sweat, sunscreen, or impurities. Even saturated, it continues to breathe and expel internal vapor. In heavy rain, this ensures stable breathability.
52,000 Schmerbers. An unprecedented outdoor waterproof rating. This means water won’t penetrate the membrane even in prolonged, heavy, windy rain.
RET < 12. Rated “very good” breathability: even under moderate to intense effort, moisture vapor escapes efficiently.
170 g/m². The membrane is extremely lightweight, allowing for a thin, compressible jacket always suited to exertion in wet conditions.
0 PFC. No fluorinated treatments, no PFCs, with no compromise on performance.
4. Building a Three-Layer Rain System
A hardshell’s effectiveness depends as much on what’s underneath as on the membrane itself.
- RWS Merino base layer: BIAFO (men / women) or MEFONNA (men / women) for continuous effort, SHIRWALI (men / women) for colder days. Merino remains insulating even when wet and stabilizes body temperature.
- Breathable midlayer: KOKANEE (men / women) for effort, MEOLA for gentler warmth. The goal: buffer temperature fluctuations while wicking internal moisture.
- Appropriate hardshell: SKORA (men / women) for versatile simplicity, LONAK (men / women) for signature technical performance, LONAK-XT (men / women) for demanding or very wet missions.
The combination of these three layers ensures you stay dry inside as well as outside.
5. Lower Body: Often Overlooked
Rain on the thighs causes rapid cooling. The NUNATAK (men / women) pants use the same high-performance hydrophilic membrane as AYAQ hardshells: total waterproofing, controlled ventilation, consistent performance even when saturated. In mixed conditions, the softshell RIMO (men / women) suffices if rain is intermittent and effort remains high.
6. Why AYAQ Hardshells Are Coherent Choices for Rain
All AYAQ hardshells are made in Europe from Italian, French, German, and Portuguese fabrics. Their ultra-technical construction, record waterproof membranes, movement-adapted cuts, and PFC-free treatments make them coherent choices for light, moderate, or sustained rain.
Ultimately, “equipping for rain” isn’t about choosing the heaviest or thickest jacket, but the one best suited to your activity: SKORA (men / women) for efficient simplicity, LONAK (men / women) for identity and technical performance, LONAK-XT (men / women) for maximum commitment. Three distinct ways to fully control your temperature, breathability, and comfort—even in the rain.
