I tested Columbia’s Hike Dry range for UK rain – my top picks (aff)

Designed with unpredictable weather in mind, Columbia’s new Hike Dry collection couldn't be better suited to UK walks and climbs - where a clear morning can quickly give way to something much wetter. And often does!

The standout piece is the Columbia Whistler Peak Shell Jacket, £270, part of the brand's Titanium Collection, which comes into its own in persistent rain. It’s not the lightest option out there, but that's deliberate. This is a hardworking, highly effective performance jacket that uses smart technology to ensure you stay perfectly dry while still being able to move freely.

Rather than follow the traditional route of layering fabrics, Columbia’s OutDry Extreme technology places the waterproof membrane on the outside of the jacket. In most waterproofs, the face fabric eventually becomes saturated, which can make the jacket feel heavier and less breathable. With the fully seam-sealed Whistler Peak, water rolls straight off, meaning the jacket doesn’t absorb moisture in the same way and stays lighter for longer.

Other details that make this such a successful piece include an adjustable hood so you can actually see where you're going (I have too many coats where this is a problem!), underarm vents to prevent overheating, adjustable hem and cuffs to keep the elements out, and soft, wicking fabric inside so you stay comfortable as well as dry. The jacket comes in three colourways, and I'm a huge fan of the striking Compass Blue. You can also opt for Iron or Black.

For equally impressive footwear, look out for the Columbia Tellurix Titanium OutDry Hiking Shoes, £125, which lean more towards a trainer-style design. They’re super comfortable and perfectly suited to faster-paced walks or mixed terrain - and they look fabulous.

What sets them apart is the combination of Titanium-level performance and OutDry waterproofing. The OutDry membrane keeps water from entering while maintaining breathability, so your feet stay dry without feeling overheated during sustained activity. Unlike many traditional hiking shoes, the membrane is bonded directly to the upper, reducing bulk and preventing the shoe from becoming soaking wet on wet trails.

The fit is also worth a mention. There’s enough room in the toe box to prevent pinching during long walks, while the heel and midfoot feel secure. Combined with a cushioned tongue and collar, these shoes feel “ready to go” without needing a break-in period - rare in waterproof hiking footwear.

If you're on the hunt for quality layers, take a look at some of Columbia's DriVenture T-Shirts. I tested the women’s DriVenture Technical T-Shirt, £55, and the Women’s DriVenture Technical Long Sleeve T-Shirt, £70 normally but down to £49 on Columbia's website right now.

Both are lightweight, breathable and designed for movement. The short-sleeve version, is perfect when you’re building up heat on climbs or in milder conditions, while the long-sleeve, with its ever-useful thumb holes, adds a little extra coverage without feeling heavy or restrictive. They use Omni-Wick EVAP advanced evaporation technology to manage moisture brilliantly.

Finally, finish the outfit with a pair of Women's Silver Ridge Elite Hiking Trousers, which are up there with the most comfortable I've worn. I'm an 8 and they're a generous fit so bear that in mind when ordering. These £80 trousers feature numerous zippered and hook and loop pockets, stretchy drawcords on the cuffs plus Omni-Shade Broad Spectrum UPF 50 for sun protection and Omni-Wick for moisture protection.