Review of the Andes PRO Kailash Jacket

The Andes PRO jacket by Kailash is designed to provide protection against wind, rain, and cold during intense outdoor activities. It is what we consider a third layer, as part of the Layering System.

Recommended Uses for the Andes PRO Kailash Jacket

Designed primarily for hiking, trekking, and long-term expeditions, this jacket combines lightness, durability, and a high level of waterproofing and breathability, offering comfort and safety in adverse weather conditions. Its purpose is to provide an effective barrier against the elements, keeping the user dry and protected without compromising breathability.

The Andes PRO jacket is aimed at outdoor enthusiasts who seek a reliable and durable solution for challenging environments. It is recommended for hikers, trekkers, and mountaineers who need a waterproof jacket that performs exceptionally well in both torrential rain and strong winds. The Andes PRO is ideal for those looking for a technical garment that balances waterproofing and breathability.

With features such as high-resistance fabric, waterproof zippers, and DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment, the Andes PRO stands out for hiking and trekking. It provides protection in harsh weather and is compact enough to fit into any backpack. Although lightweight and compact, the Andes X-Lite version, a more minimalist alternative to the PRO, is more suitable for trail running and adventure racing, activities that require even more lightness and practicality.

My personal experience with the Andes PRO included, among other activities, 35 days on the Camino de Santiago de Compostela, where the jacket was tested in strong winds, cold, and moderate to heavy rain. Its effectiveness in keeping my body dry and warm without sacrificing ventilation allowed me to face harsh weather conditions with confidence.

In this article, I will detail the main features of the Andes PRO jacket, its innovative technologies, and share my field experience. I will analyze how this gear performs in different weather conditions and evaluate its pros and cons for those looking for a high-performance waterproof jacket for hiking and trekking.

About Kailash

Founded in 1998, Kailash is a Brazilian brand specializing in technical equipment and apparel for outdoor activities, focusing on products for mountaineering, trekking, trail running, and other outdoor adventures. Created with the mission of developing high-performance and durable products, Kailash aims to innovate with technologies that provide protection and comfort in adverse conditions.

The brand is known for its commitment to quality and innovation, incorporating technical fabrics and ergonomic design into its products. Among its most popular lines are backpacks and technical clothing, such as waterproof and windproof jackets, which are widely praised for their durability and functionality.

Additionally, Kailash is also recognized for supporting elite trail running athletes, being a brand that values exploration and connection with nature at its core. With products developed for Brazilian climates and terrains, Kailash offers technical solutions that cater to both beginners and experienced mountaineers.

Experience Using the Andes PRO Jacket

During the nearly 800 km of the Camino de Santiago de Compostela, the Andes PRO jacket by Kailash was put to the test in various weather conditions. In the first few days, while crossing the Pyrenees, I faced cold temperatures and strong winds ranging from 50 to 70 km/h, resulting in a wind chill of approximately -13 ºC. To protect myself against the intense wind, I used the Andes PRO as a third layer, combining it with a merino wool jacket (second layer) and a long-sleeve synthetic fabric shirt (first layer). This combination provided excellent thermal insulation and comfort, even in the most extreme conditions.

Although I encountered some moderate rain during the middle of the pilgrimage, it was in the final week, with almost constant rainfall, that the jacket truly proved its worth. Even using a trekking umbrella (the TeleScope Hands Free Trekking Umbrella by EuroSCHIRM), my arms and part of my body were often exposed to water. However, the Andes PRO jacket kept them completely dry and protected. On windy days when using an umbrella was impractical, the Andes PRO was essential in keeping me dry and comfortable during my hike.

It’s important to highlight that when I say I remained “dry and comfortable,” this is relative to the level of preparation compared to other less-equipped pilgrims. Since I sweat a lot, it’s natural that despite the rain protection, I still got wet from perspiration. Later, I will explain the technical features of the Andes PRO, which is a waterproof and breathable jacket. However, it is crucial to clarify that breathability (the fabric’s ability to allow water vapor to escape from the body) depends on several factors, such as relative humidity, temperature, and vapor pressure inside the jacket. Despite these complexities, the Andes PRO performed satisfactorily.

Besides the Camino de Santiago, I also tested the Andes PRO in snowy conditions during snowshoeing hikes. While many people believe that extreme cold and snow require a heavy jacket, I prefer relying on a good layering system and using a lightweight jacket. In activities like snowshoeing, the body generates a lot of heat, and since I sweat a lot, heavier jackets like those used for skiing tend to make me uncomfortable. In these situations, I wear a 240 g/m² merino wool base layer, an insulated mid-layer jacket, and the Andes PRO as my third layer. During the winter season of January 2024, I faced temperatures as low as -10 ºC with strong winds, and the Andes PRO was essential in maximizing my comfort and performance during these intense activities.

The Andes PRO Jacket by Kailash was designed to provide effective protection against the elements without sacrificing lightness and practicality. Built with a focus on durability and comfort, it incorporates several features that make it versatile for different hiking and trekking conditions. Below are some of the key technical characteristics that make this jacket a robust choice for those in need of a waterproof and breathable piece that is light enough for long walks, equipped with precise adjustments to ensure a good fit, as well as essential accessories to maximize performance.

Fabric Features of the Andes PRO Kailash Jacket

• Fabric: 100% polyester;
• Layers: 2.5 L (more on this below);
• Fabric waterproof rating: 10,000 mm water column;
• Seam waterproof rating: 10,000 mm water column;
• Breathability: 10,000 g/m2/24h;
• Water repellency: DWR applied on the outer side of the fabric.

Features of the Andes PRO Kailash Jacket

• Reflective logos for greater visibility in low-light conditions;
• YKK sealed zippers, known for durability and water resistance;
• Elastic adjustments at the waist and hem, providing greater comfort and protection from wind and rain;
• Adjustable cuffs with velcro, preventing water from entering the sleeves;
• Underarm ventilation openings, ensuring better temperature control during intense activities;
• Spacious front pockets with waterproof zippers, ideal for storing items like headlamps, wallets, and energy bars;
• Smaller chest pocket with sealed zipper for easy access to small essential items;
• 100% polyamide fabric, lightweight and abrasion-resistant;
• Electronically sealed seams, offering extra protection against rain;
• Hood with brim and three adjustment points (1 rear and 2 front) for better protection and visibility, even in adverse conditions;
• Zip pullers with finishes that make them easy to use even with gloves on;
• Approximate jacket weight: 350 g (size M, according to manufacturer info) and 420.87 g (size XXL, my jacket).

Technologies Used in the Andes PRO Kailash Jacket

Layers:

When discussing the Andes PRO jacket by Kailash, it is important to clarify the difference between 2, 2.5, and 3-layer waterproof and breathable fabric constructions. This can often cause confusion with the layering system of clothing, but here we are referring to the fabric composition used in the jacket.

These layers refer to how different layers of materials are combined to form the jacket’s fabric, which directly impacts durability, breathability, comfort, and weight.

2 Layers (2L):

In 2-layer jackets, a membrane or coating is applied to the inside of the outer fabric, forming a single piece of material. To protect this membrane, a loose lining is added to the inside of the jacket, usually a mesh. This construction is generally preferred for urban use or travel, as it offers quieter material, without the “friction noise” that some technical jackets make while walking. This construction is found in more affordable jackets. Because they focus on price, they tend to be less efficient in terms of breathability.

2.5 Layers (2.5L):

This is the case with the Andes PRO Jacket by Kailash. The 2.5-layer construction can cause confusion when discussing “layers.” In this case, the outer fabric (the first layer) is the same as used in other constructions. The waterproof and breathable membrane (second layer) is applied directly to the fabric. The difference lies in the “half layer” added, which is a thin coating or print applied over the membrane, eliminating the need for a loose lining. This extra finish helps protect the membrane and makes the jacket lighter and more compact, easily identifiable by the visible print on the inside.

Although this construction results in a lightweight and compact jacket, it may have lower durability and breathability compared to 3-layer jackets. Some people may find that this type of jacket feels “sticky” or “damp” when in contact with the skin, but newer technologies such as “dry-touch” coatings have improved this comfort.

The weight of the jacket is influenced by the thickness and type of external fabric, as well as the material used for the internal coating, ensuring a balance between lightness and functionality.

3 Layers (3L):

3-layer jackets are the most durable and breathable. Unlike 2-layer jackets, they do not have coatings applied directly but rather a waterproof membrane placed between the outer fabric and an inner lining. This creates a highly durable laminated material. Because of this, these jackets are ideal for extreme environments and long-duration adventures, such as mountain trekking.

Due to this robust construction, 3-layer jackets are typically the most expensive on the market but offer the best performance in terms of weather protection and breathability.

Fabric Waterproofing: 10,000 mm Water Column

The waterproofing of a fabric is measured by the height of a water column (in millimeters) that the material can withstand before allowing water to pass through. In the case of the Andes PRO jacket, with a 10,000 mm water column, this means the fabric can resist the pressure of a 10-meter-high water column before moisture begins to seep through. For outdoor activities like trekking and hiking, this measure is considered quite adequate, providing reliable protection against moderate to heavy rain, ensuring that the user remains dry in adverse conditions.

Breathability: 10,000 g/m²/24h

The breathability of the fabric refers to its ability to allow sweat vapor to escape from the body through the fabric, keeping the user dry on the inside. The measure of 10,000 g/m²/24h means that 10,000 grams of water vapor can pass through one square meter of the fabric in 24 hours. This level of breathability is ideal for moderate to intense physical activities, such as trekking, where sweat release is important for comfort and body temperature regulation.

Field Test: User Testimonials of the Andes PRO Kailash Jacket

Cristiano Marcelino, an ultramarathon athlete, used the Andes PRO jacket in races with extreme temperatures between -10°C and -30°C, and during an expedition to Aconcagua. He highlights the quality similar to international brands, as well as the jacket’s resistance, lightness, and practicality.

“Long races often involve intense cold, but as you move, you need to regulate your temperature. The ease of opening and closing the zipper and the adjustments on the hood are positive aspects of the jacket, as well as the quality. The waterproof layer is very durable and does not peel off easily, as happened with other jackets I have used.”

Cristiano Marcelino

Trekking and crossing enthusiasts, João Paulo Lima and Mariana Alves, went to Patagonia and Peru, where they climbed the Nevado Mateo mountain at 5100 m and completed the Huayhuash circuit. Mariana highlights the quality of the material, as well as the ease of carrying it in their backpacks due to its compactness and lightness. The only negative point she mentioned was the lack of color options for the female model.

For João, the positive experience started with the more affordable price, considering its similarity to other brands. He recommends the Andes PRO Kailash jacket for trekking, as it is breathable, has underarm openings, easy hood adjustments, and Velcro cuffs.

João Paulo Lima and Mariana Alves in Peru

Murilo Basei from Gaudério Adventure uses the Andes PRO Kailash jacket for trekking and motorcycle trips. Like João and Mariana, he emphasizes the quality of the material, underarm openings, Velcro cuffs, the elastic at the hem, and the adjustable hood.

The only point of attention mentioned by Murilo was during one of his experiences with the waterproofing. “During a trekking activity in the rain, the jacket let a little water through in the back area. I’m not sure if it was the hood or humidity. However, after this episode, I did a 200 km trip in heavy rain, and not a drop got through.”

Pros and Cons of the Andes PRO Kailash Jacket

### **Pros: List of the product’s strengths**

• High quality and durability in low temperatures and rain;
• Lightweight and breathable;
• More affordable price, with quality comparable to international brands;
• Long-lasting durability;
• Easy-to-use zippers;
• Adjustable hood for added convenience and comfort.

Cons: List of the product’s weaknesses

No significant weaknesses were identified. With prolonged use, I may have more insights into the material’s durability, and if necessary, I will update this article accordingly.

Conclusion

The Andes PRO jacket by Kailash is a robust and reliable option for facing harsh weather conditions during outdoor activities. With a 2.5-layer construction, 10,000 mm waterproofing, 10,000 g/m²/24h breathability, and technical details such as sealed zippers, waterproof seams, and an adjustable hood, this jacket provides efficient protection against rain, wind, and cold while maintaining a good balance between lightness and durability.

Recommended for trekking, hiking, expeditions, and activities in cold or rainy climates, the Andes PRO is ideal for those looking for a reliable and more affordable third layer.

Where to Buy

The Andes PRO jacket can be purchased directly from the Kailash website (men’s model and women’s model) or from specialized retailers such as Mundo Terra and Gaudério Adventure, both of which are Gear Tips Club partners and offer significant discounts for Club subscribers.

Learn More

We have selected a list of related content on outdoor clothing and waterproof/breathable jackets:

• Understanding the Layering System
• We Used a Thermal Camera to Show How the Layering System Works

This post is also available in: Português (Portuguese (Brazil)) Español (Spanish)