Rainbird Journal

Wet season in Queensland means fresh downpours, less crowded tourist spots, and world-famous roaring waterfalls in the world’s oldest living rainforest. The wet season, affectionately known as ‘the big wet’ is hot, wet and wonderful, offering a completely unique experience for visitors to northern Queensland. To enjoy this season, you’ll need to pack smart though. Getting caught out with the wrong outerwear can leave you miserable. So here are 5 compelling reasons to visit QLD in the wet season, plus the best outerwear to keep you comfortable and dry. Barron Falls is breathtaking in wet season - Just bring your waterproof hooded jacket You’ve never seen a waterfall with as much power as Barron Falls (Indigenous name Din Din Falls) during the wet season. After a downpour, the daily volumetric water flow can reach a whopping 265,000 megalitres! In the Barron Gorge National Park, these 250m high mammoth falls tumble into a craggy gorge below. There are countless ways to see this fascinating waterfall: Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Kuranda Scenic Railway  Self-drive to the Din Din Lookout Track and walk the 1.2km return boardwalk track Helicopter flight Sounds amazing right? It sure is, but seeing Barron Falls in the wet season means planning for exactly that; wet weather. Not only is this season very wet, it’s also very hot. You’ll need an exceptional waterproof jacket that offers an adjustable hood and sleeves to ensure no water can permeate these openings.  If you’re doing the 1.2km boardwalk track, you’ll need a thin shell jacket with maximum breathability. Look for options that fold away and are easily stowed so you’re not carrying heavy outerwear.  If you expect you’ll be stopping and watching Din Din for a while, look for long-line waterproof jackets to keep you dry even when sitting on wet logs and seats. Lightweight fabric with longer lengths ensure extra dryness.  While you’re there, don’t forget to learn about Australia’s indigenous and the importance of Din Din Falls. The Djabugandji Bama people are the traditional owners of the area Djirri Nyundu Nyrrumba, the stunning region which includes Barron Falls and Barron Gorge National Park. Rainforest Dreamtime walks with the Kuku Yalanji people will take your breath away The Daintree Rainforest is world famous, housing over 2,000 unique species, and a guided tour by a Kuku Yalanji custodian is a thrilling way to discover this region. At Mossman Gorge, there’s an elevated boardwalk designed to keep your feet dry and protect this fascinating rainforest as you venture deep into the expansive canopy. Best of all, your Kuku Yalanji guide will share Dreamtime stories and legends of their people who have lived in the region for 50,000 years. Plus, you’ll learn about how they use the unique plants, find bush food, and why the wet season is so important to the tropical far north. Pair a waterproof hooded jacket with waterproof pants for rainforest adventures While the rainforest’s canopy is expansive, you’ll get very wet if it’s raining heavily during your guided tour. Don’t let the rain ruin your rainforest adventure by packing a raincoat and pants for the ultimate wet weather experience. Great waterproof pants will offer exceptional waterproofing (to 5,000mm) and breathability (5,000mvp) to keep you dry without clamminess. Throw a thin waterproof raincoat over the top and you can enjoy your rainforest adventure in any weather.  Take a children's waterproof jackets Australia to keep kids dry on your trip.Travelling with little ones? The best kids raincoat Australia helps keep your little ones dry so you can enjoy the rainforest as a family. Best of all, great brands offer waterproof puddle suits and pants so your little one will be dry from head to toe, no matter how many rainforest puddles they explore. Daintree Discovery Centre offers indoor/outdoor options for heavy rain days - But bring your waterproof hooded jacket Want to experience every level of the ancient Daintree Rainforest? From the forest floor to the top of the canopy, the Daintree Discovery Centre lets you get up close and personal with every aspect of the rainforest. You might even spot a cassowary; a huge ancient bird, or one of the region’s giant crocodiles. Journey along the aerial walkway, and climb to the canopy tower to see this spectacular rainforest from every level. If you’re travelling with people who need a few more frills than a classic rainforest journey, enjoy the 3D indoor Discovery Centre and Coffee Shop too. Most of the Daintree Discovery Centre is outdoors, so you’ll need to bring a raincoat. Lightweight and airy design is key as the muggy heat can be intense when you’re on the rainforest floor, and it’s exceptionally hot above the canopy.  Top tip: Breathability matters: Great breathable jackets expel water vapour from inside the jacket to the outside through tiny holes in the fabric to keep you dry and comfortable. Look for jackets with good breathability, measured in Moisture Vapour Permeability (MVP). A rating of 5,000mvp or higher will ensure that you stay comfortable even in warm, muggy conditions. Top waterproof hooded jacket recommendations for Discovery Centre rainforest adventures You’ll want to try the Halley jacket for women, and Sedna jacket for men by Rainbird waterproof jackets. These jackets are made from baby soft fabric that’s lightweight, offering simple waterproof shells for maximum dryness. Plus, they allow for plenty of air to circulate in your jacket to ease that feeling of mugginess. Need more details? The Halley rainbird waterproof jacket is: Waterproof 8,000mm Breathable 8,000mvp Fully seam sealed Folds away into a small pocket Journey to Far North Queensland in the wet season and you’ll be amazed by the awe-inspiring waterfalls, wildlife and traditions of this fascinating region. The world’s oldest rainforest truly comes to life in the wet, so this time of year is an amazing time to visit. To ensure you get to enjoy the sights though, don’t forget to pack the right waterproof outerwear for you and your family. Look for lightweight, breathable options for the hot, wet heat, and you’ll have the trip of a lifetime.

Late summer in Victoria, Australia, offers the perfect opportunity to escape into the great outdoors as long as you pack a waterproof hooded jacket. Because Victoria's weather can change so rapidly, not having the appropriate outerwear can easily ruin camping trips.  Whether you're a seasoned camper or a novice looking to embark on your first camping trip, here are the top five places to camp in Victoria this summer, plus what to wear at each location. Camping in Wilsons Promontory National Park Needs a Rainbird Waterproof Jacket Why it’s Great: Wilsons Promontory, affectionately known as "The Prom," is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts located in Gippsland. Its geological beauty is breathtaking as it rests atop an immense granite ridge that surged upward through the frigid waters of Bass Strait. It offers a diverse wilderness landscape including cliffs, hills, mountains, valleys, tidal rivers, sand dunes, and magnificent views. Where to camp: There are countless camping options at The Prom. One of the primary campsites in Wilsons Promontory, Stockyards, is close to the entrance. The most popular campsite though, Tidal River Campground is an extra 35 kilometers drive deeper into the park. What to wear: Wilson’s Prom is coastal and as far south as you can get, so it can get chilly even in Summer. In January and February, opt for lightweight, breathable, waterproof raincoats that allow for layering underneath. For families camping together, don't forget the kids. Bring a colourful children's waterproof jacket Australia to ensure your little one stays visible and extra dry during your adventure. During the other Summer months, opt for thicker, waterproof jackets to give you extra warmth - you’ll need it, especially at night. Lyra Parka - Black Camping in the Grampians National Park Requires a Melbourne Puffer Jacket Why it’s great: For those seeking adventure amidst an inland rugged landscape, Grampians National Park is the ideal destination. Just a few hours' drive from Melbourne, this iconic park features towering sandstone mountains, cascading waterfalls, and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites. Our top tip: Don’t miss a refreshing dip in the Venus Baths, located in Stony Creek.  Where to camp: The Grampians National Park is vast, spanning around 1,600 km2, making camping options seemingly endless. Here are a few favourites: Borough Huts Campground, nestled in the serene Grampians, provides a cosy retreat for nature lovers. It offers basic amenities including fire pits, drop toilets, and picnic tables. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, it offers an ideal setting for hiking and wildlife observation, where encounters with kangaroos and kookaburras are common. Kalymna Falls Campground offers a breathtaking tranquil and scenic haven for nature enthusiasts, featuring well-spaced campsites and fire pits in the serene surroundings of the Grampians. While the campground offers basic amenities, including a small car park, it doesn't offer to individual pitches, featuring only five camping platforms. This makes it one of the smaller, more exclusive camping options in the Grampians. Tip: The campgrounds are managed by Parks Victoria, so check their website before you travel. Camping on Phillip Island Calls for a Windproof and Waterproof Hooded Jacket What to pack: Located inland, the Grampians can get cold at night and hold the chilly weather throughout the day. For chilly mornings and evenings, consider packing a Melbourne puffer jacket that easily rolls into your pack. As the Grampians campsites are both basic and remote, you need jackets that cover all bases. Pack jackets blending insulation with waterproof fabric to keep you warm and dry, no matter the weather. Why it’s great: Phillip Island is renowned for its wildlife encounters and stunning coastal scenery. Camp by the beach and wake up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore, or stay in a caravan park with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Explore the island's walking tracks, visit the famous Penguin Parade, explore the Forrest Caves or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.  Where to camp: Phillip Island has a number of camping options, but here are two very different options to try: Keen on some glamping? At The Sheltered Glamping Co, guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations in well-equipped canvas bell tents or spacious safari tents. These eco-friendly options include amenities such as queen-sized beds, heating, private outdoor showers, and access to communal areas, all set in a serene environment where wallabies and echidnas roam freely. BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island, situated on the island's western edge near the bridge to the mainland, offers a secluded retreat close to nature with direct beach access. Alongside standard amenities like an adventure playground and camp kitchen, the park also features unique offerings such as a seasonal outdoor cinema and pedal cars for hire, providing a diverse range of activities for guests. What to pack: Hot summer days at the beach are dreamy, but often disturbed by coastal winds. Don’t let the wind ruin your trip by packing a lightweight, windproof jacket. Look for jackets that offer cord-adjustable cuffs and hoods to keep you cosy even in the strongest breeze. For the ultimate camping jacket for women or men, look for styles that offer an inner fleece layer that can be unzipped, offering extra warmth on cooler nights, or serving as a simple windproof shell in the heat. Victoria offers countless camping destinations for every type of adventurer. Whether you prefer coastal camping, mountain retreats, or bushland adventures, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Before heading off on your camping trip, ensure you pack a great waterproof hooded jacket to stay comfortable and prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Happy camping!

At Rainbird we have a firm focus on selecting beautiful fabrics that are deceptive in what they provide: waterproof, breathable, durable and soft to touch. Why Waterproof Clothing that can repel water is a core function vital to making sure you can be outdoors for longer in comfort and style.The technology of our fabrics means water that lands on the outer jacket won’t pass through the fabric. This is achieved via a clever membrane layer that’s laminated to the fabric which has teeny tiny pores that prevent water molecules from passing through, but (thanks to fancy fabric technology) it allows moisture vapour (ie your sweat) to be released through it at the same time. How is this tested you ask? Well, we use the Hydrostatic Head Test. Our chief fabric testers take a cutting from the fabric and clamp it to the base of a clear tube. The tube has millimetre measurements marked on it and the tube will then be filled with water. The fabric tester closely monitors it to see how high the tube can be filled with water before small droplets of water seep through the fabric. It’s at this point a reading is taken of how high the water column is. This number equates to the waterproof rating.When shopping our products you’ll see under Features & Specs, some numbers that look something like this: 8,000mm / 5,000mpvThe “mm” number relates to how many millimetres of water the fabric could withstand before it penetrated the fabric. The “mvp” number stands for Moisture Vapor Permeability – which is how breathability is measured. We have all of our laboratory ratings ratified by a governing board to give you (and us) piece of mind that you’re buying into quality and durable products. We test to Australian & New Zealand standards. What does breathability mean? The breathability factor helps regulate your body temperature. We measure this rating on all of our garments through the testing of how many grams of water vapour can pass through a square meter of fabric from the inside to the outside in a 24 hour period. In every day language, we’re talking about your sweat. This will always depend on what you’re doing, whether it’s grabbing a coffee, hiking in the Grampians or cycling to work. Regardless of what Mother Nature is gracing us with that day, be it raining, snowing or glorious sunshine we’re all humans – so we sweat. What you need in your jacket is a high level of breathability. This can be achieved easily when fabric (like ours) can draw the vapour molecules out to the surface of the jacket, and release them outside. The evaporation of sweat and dissipation of vapour is necessary to regulate body temperature. Happy body = happy mind = happy days! We’re sure our sweat likes that it can escape confinement too! Fabrics that breathe provide high comfort and convenience for the wearer – which means that looking good and feeling great aren’t compromised by the weather. At Rainbird we combine our innovative fabrics to be both Waterproof & Breathable through layering the fabric with a Micro-porous membrane in 3 steps.1. Outer layer (which we call the face fabric) will usually have a DWR (durable water repellent) finish applied. This helps Raindrops roll off the material, rather than soak in.2. An inner layer (which is either a laminated membrane bonded to the face fabric or a coating which is a liquid applied to the interior of the garment). This is the clever membrane that keeps raindrops out, but lets your sweat breakout.3. A crucial backing layer or garment lining. This will come in the form of a very fine mesh like layer. Its job is to protect the inner membrane layer and also keep the wearer super comfortable.So hey presto we hear you shout?! Um…unfortunately not. Even though a garment may be labelled as waterproof & breathable… there is still one key element missing. Seam Sealing… keep reading to learn more. What is seam sealing? When a garment is made it needs to be sewed together. Every seam that’s stitched will puncture minuscule holes into the fabric and membrane. If this isn’t sealed, then water can easily get through! When the water gets through, that means you’ve got a soggy day ahead… To avoid an uncomfortable outing in the wet weather, we apply a process called seam sealing. This process makes sure no water gets through those holes created by the stitching. We fully seam seal all of our products … so not just one or two seams. We mean every seam you see on that garment! This pretty much invisible method is done via a heat sealing tape that is run over the seams.The result? You’ll stay nice and dry on the inside throughout the day! Quiet Fabric Now this may be one not many think of, but don’t worry for we have! Frequently, waterproof garments have a coating applied to increase its waterproof ratings. More often than not, this results in a crunchy, noisy outcome.We’ve carefully selected a specific high-quality lamination process instead, this innovative fabric won’t be intrusively crunching and crumpling as you walk, it’s our very own ‘quiet fabric’ doing just as it says – reducing the sound so you can enjoy the elements in peace and quiet. Once we’ve selected all of the best quality fabrics and processes we apply our technical knowledge to the design features of the garment. These details make sure living your every day life in a Rainbird product is sublimely comfortable. Some Extras! Adjustable Cords & Cuffs – With carefully hidden tie adjustments, you can make sure your jacket fits you ‘just-right’. Coupled with adjustable cuffs too this ensures the cold stays out and the warm stays in!Stay-Dry Hood – Our unique hood has been crafted to protect you from the elements, some come with an added ‘peak’ to give you the extra cover needed come rain, wind or shine. We all come in different shapes & sizes so our hoods are often height adjustable and come with cinching cords too.Storm Flaps & Garages – Sometimes the wind & rain are just desperate to get in – wherever it can. We integrate storm flap protectors on zippers and pockets to protect you from the weather creeping in where it can. We also have garages at the top of the pocket zips for you to park your zippers in to shield this little gap from the weather, and prevent leakage into your pockets.

Are you gearing up for your summer adventures, and looking for the best lightweight waterproof jacket? Whether you're planning a hiking trip, a beach getaway, or just bracing for those unpredictable summer showers, a lightweight, breathable waterproof jacket is a must-have in your wardrobe. Here’s everything you need to know to help you choose the best lightweight waterproof jacket Australia has to offer. Why you need a softshell jacket for Summer: Softshell jackets are a must-have for summer as they keep you warm in sudden gusts and unforeseen chilly blasts. Softshells are essential for kids too, as sudden cool spells can ruin your outdoor adventure if your little ones get chilled. Luckily great brands have created lightweight, breathable and portable options for you and your family to keep you warm in sudden cool changes this summer. Consider Colour: A Hi Vis Softshell Jacket is Best for Cycling If you’re heading off sailing, cycling or fishing by a busy waterway where you need to stay visible, a hi vis softshell jacket is a great choice. They’re vibrant, but light enough to let your body breath as you work hard to pedal up that next hill. If you’re after a more gentle tone, modern patterns and colours make these hugely useful jackets a fashion statement too. Great brands now offer pastels, moody patterns and classic dark hues to keep your waterproof look on trend. The Best Womens Waterproof Cycling Jacket Is UnisexThe best womens waterproof cycling jackets must be bright, but breathable and lightweight. Plus, they need to be able to be packed away easily to not add bulk while you’re on your adventures. Look for options like the Rainbird STOWaway which can be packed up into a compact ball, but doesn’t compromise on waterproofing and durability. Best of all, most womens waterproof cycling jackets like the STOWaway are unisex so they work perfectly for men and women. Consider Waterproof Ratings Depending on Where You’ll Be If you’re going to be exploring the jungle in Far North Queensland, you’ll need a much more waterproof jacket than if you’re considering a stroll in the gentle rain of Melbourne’s summer. The waterproof rating of a jacket is measured in millimeters (mm) and indicates how much water pressure it can withstand before letting moisture seep through. For summer use, a jacket with a rating of 5,000mm should suffice to keep you dry without requiring heavier fabric. Seam sealing is another way brands can make jackets fully waterproof. This almost invisible method is done via a Heat Sealing Tape that is run over the seams. Without seam sealing, the tiny holes made during the sewing process can let water in, leaving you damp. Rainbird ensures most of their jackets are made with seam sealing technology. Breathability Matters When Choosing a Lightweight Waterproof Jacket in Australia Staying dry is crucial, but you also don't want to feel like you're in a sauna. Great breathable jackets release the water vapour from inside the jacket to the outside via tiny holes in the fabric to keep you dry and comfortable. Look for a jacket with good breathability, measured in Moisture Vapour Permeability (mvp). A rating of 5000 or higher will ensure you stay comfortable even in warm, muggy conditions.Top breathable lightweight waterproof jackets in Australia for Summer:STOWaway - 7,000mvp ratingAgena 2.5 and Hadar 2.5 - 8,000mvp ratingWomen’s Polaris - 8,000mvpMen’s Deneb- 8,000mvp Weight and Packability Help Determine the Perfect Lightweight Waterproof Jacket Since it's summer, the last thing you want is a bulky, heavy jacket weighing you down. Choose a lightweight jacket that's easy to pack and won't hog up your backpack space. It should be compact enough to carry with you everywhere. Great brands make jackets with a packable pocket or insert, like the Rainbird STOWaway jacket. By using the jacket’s own pocket, you can pack the jacket away to keep it in the car or in your backpack for easy access. This way it won’t take up too much room when it’s packed away so you can always have it with you. Choose a Comfy Fit for your Lightweight Waterproof Jacket From long-line jackets to shorter waist-length jackets, the best style of your lightweight waterproof jacket will depend on your activity. Waterproof fishing jackets will work best if they’re slightly longer, while cycling jackets are usually better if they’re waist-length. Avoid the Scrunching Sound of a Lightweight Waterproof Jacket by Choosing Quiet Fabric When you think of waterproof fabric, you probably can imagine that scrunching and ‘swish swish’ sound of raincoats from your childhood. Thankfully, modern brands use technical waterproof ‘quiet’ fabrics that don’t make an intrusive sound when you walk and move. This means you can enjoy your hike through the forest in a gentle rain without hearing your jacket scrunching and disrupting the peace and quiet of the bush. Your Lightweight Waterproof Jacket Must be Durable Invest in a quality jacket that can withstand rough and tumble adventures. Check for reinforced seams, durable zippers, and high-quality materials that can handle the wear and tear of outdoor activities.Some great durable jackets, like the Rainbird Agena 2.5 and Hadar 2.5 are lightweight, breathable and waterproof making them perfect for summer hikes. Plus, they have a thin laminate inner lining making them extra durable with enhanced waterproofing. Luckily though, the soft-touch fabric is slim enough to keep you cool on hot, wet summer nights.   Choosing the best lightweight waterproof jacket is easy when you know what to look for. Decide on your ideal colour scheme, length, breathability and waterproof rating depending on your main activities, and you’re ready to go. Rainbird waterproof jackets are the perfect place to start looking. Rainbird jackets are designed with the harsh Australian climate in mind, making them perfect for summer adventures anywhere in the world. From lightweight and packable jackets to stylish and durable options, Rainbird jackets are made with exceptional waterproof, breathability and fabric ratings and designs. So, don't let a little rain or unexpected drizzle ruin your plans. Stay dry, comfortable, and stylish while you explore the world, and make sure to check out Rainbird Waterproof Jackets Australia for some top-notch options. Adventure awaits, so go out and make the most of it!

Not all raincoats are alike and not all raincoats you will like, but there is a solution….With winter upon us the need for apparel that will protect us from the elements becomes something that most of us consider at some point. Often it’s after we’ve been caught out and have ended up wet & cold. We’re often asked about what you need to know to make sure the raincoat you’re purchasing will do the job of protecting you from the elements. A little knowledge, as always, makes it a lot easier to know what to look for. Here’s our list of the 6 key things to look for to keep you dry & toasty this winter! At last, 6 easy tips to finding your perfect Raincoat!  Waterproof Fabric  Look for ratings on the jackets you are considering.  A minimum of 2,000mm (Millimetres) for light showers. The higher the number the better although the ratings game is not a level playing field (which is a whole other post) – don’t get too bogged down with this. A rating is better than none. Typically this is either a membrane or coating on the inside of the fabric which you generally don’t see. Taped Seams This is where the inside seams have what looks like sticky tape placed over the seams to prevent leakage through the sewing needle holes which is essential to keeping you dry. This is also known as Seam Sealing and can be on all seams which is known as Fully Seam Sealed, or just the seams where it is most likely to be an issue such as the shoulders or neck seams – this is known as Critical Seam Sealing. Fully Seam Sealed is always best! Breathable Fabric This is probably the least understood yet most important elements of a raincoat. If moisture vapour (your hot sweaty steam) cannot escape through the fabric it creates condensation on the inside of the jacket. This can result in finding yourself unpleasantly wet and cold on the inside of the jacket! To avoid this look for ratings above 2,000mvp (Moisture Vapour Permeability) to remain dry and comfortable. The breathability factor is typically achieved by either a membrane or a coating on the inside of the fabric which you can’t usually see. Durable Waterproof Repellent Finish This is a finish applied to the surface of the fabric which causes the rain to bead and run off the surface. This feature aids the membrane or coating on the inside of the fabric which provides the waterproof and breathable function to the fabric to perform at its best.Technical design features to keep you dry. Here are a few essentials:Adjustable hoods that are deep enough to cover your head and can be cinched in around your face if needed. Because who knows what direction the elements are going to be coming from!Storm flaps to cover zips from the sneaky wet and windy weather – either in front or behind the zip.Pockets that are well placed and are weather resistant with zips or flaps to stop your pockets filling up with rain water!Sleeves that are long enough to reach and openings that can be closed to protect water creeping in.Elasticated Draw cords at the hem or waist – this allows you to comfortably cocoon yourself in your jacket and hoard the heat! Beautiful Design Fashion with Function is possible! A technical jacket doesn’t necessarily need to look only technical.Everyday aesthetic will mean that you don’t need to keep a single use jacket with you – just in case the weather turns. A weather-proofed jacket can be worn whatever the weather.Fit & Comfort are essential – make sure that your jacket can be layered up or down with to provide the perfect protection from the elements. You’ll need to wear your jacket day in day out – so make sure it fits in the right places and is comfortable so your range of movement isn’t affected.Colour options – just as the seasons change so do our moods for different colours in our apparel. Colourful rainwear will bring a good mood to bad weather.Style – a statement piece that reflects your individual style and equally goes with all of your wardrobe.Packable – a bonus that means you have compact convenience to take your rainwear with you.Quality fabric – choosing quality will mean that you won’t be in need of buying a new jacket every winter, so spend your dollars well!Quiet fabric is another element that shouldn’t be overlooked as this adds to the wearing experience and a noisy jacket isn’t enjoyable for anyone. Is it possible to achieve all of this in one garment? Absolutely!We’ve been working hard on bridging the gap between technical outerwear and recreational apparel. You can get yourself weather-proofed without foregoing style OR function.