Stormshield Shell Guide & Comparison
What are the main differences between the two shells?
Stormshield Shell Stormshield Ultralight
Summary The Stormshield Shell is designed for harsher weather, colder conditions and more demanding activities. The Stormshield Ultralight is lighter, more packable and better suited for travel, hiking, running and everyday rain protection
Waterproofing 20,000 mm (Prolonged heavy rain, wet snow) 15,000 mm (Moderate to heavy rain, light to moderate snow)
Breathability 20,000 g/m²/24h 15,000 g/m²/24h
Face Fabric Material 100% Ripstop Polyester 100% Ripstop Nylon
Face Fabric Denier 75D (Higher durability & abrasion resistance) 20D (Lighter & more packable)
Weight 490g - 615g / 17.2 - 21.7 oz 239 - 299g / 8.4 - 10.5 oz
Membrane & Construction PFAS-free TPU membrane with full 3-layer construction PFAS-free TPU membrane with full 3-layer construction
Full Taped Seams ✓ ✓
3-Way Adjustable Hood ✓ ✓
2-Way Main Zip ✓ ✓
Adjustable Cuffs ✓ ✓
Packable Into Own Hood ✓ ✓
Packable Into Chest Pocket ✗ ✓
# of Outer Pockets 2 chest pockets, 2 hand pockets 1 chest pocket, 2 hand pockets
# of Inner Pockets 2 0
Ski-Pass Pocket ✓ ✗
Underarm Pit Zips ✓ ✗
Adjustable Hem ✓ ✗
Suggested Use Cases Mountaineering, Hiking, Snowboarding, Skiing, Winter Fishing Hiking, Running, Trail Running, Daily Wear & Travel, Fishing
What is the purpose of a hardshell jacket?
  • A hardshell is your outer protective layer against rain, wind and snow, designed to shield you from the elements while allowing you to adjust warmth with the layers underneath.
  • Both the Stormshield Shell and Stormshield Ultralight are hardshell jackets.
What do waterproof ratings mean?
  • A waterproof rating measures how much water pressure a fabric can withstand before water begins to penetrate.
  • It is expressed in millimetres (mm) and is commonly referred to as the fabric’s hydrostatic head.
  • The Stormshield Shell is rated to 20,000mm, while the Stormshield Ultralight is rated to 15,000mm.
Waterproof Rating Level of Protection Suitable Conditions
≤ 5,000 mm Light Light showers, short exposure to rain
10,000mm Moderate Regular rain, commuting, general outdoor use
15,000mm High Moderate to heavy rain, prolonged hiking, light to moderate snow
20,000mm and above Very High Prolonged heavy rain, wet snow and alpine exposure Row 4, Col 4
What do breathability ratings mean?
  • A breathability rating measures how effectively moisture vapour can pass through a fabric, helping perspiration escape during activity.
  • It is commonly expressed in g/m²/24h, indicating the amount of water vapour that can pass through one square metre of fabric over 24 hours.
  • The Stormshield Shell is rated to 20,000 g/m²/24h, while the Stormshield Ultralight is rated to 15,000 g/m²/24h.
Breathability Rating Level of Breathability Typical Activities
≤ 5,000 g/m²/24h Low Everyday wear, low-intensity activity
10,000 g/m²/24h Moderate Walking, travel, general outdoor use
15,000 g/m²/24h High Hiking, trekking, sustained active use
20,000 g/m²/24h and above Very High High-output hiking, mountaineering, snow sports, and demanding activity Row 4, Col 4

Note: Higher ratings generally indicate greater moisture-vapour transfer through the fabric. In real-world use, mechanical ventilation also helps manage excess heat and moisture. Features such as pit zips and a 2-way main zip can be opened to increase airflow during higher-output activity.
Which shell is best suited to different temperatures and conditions?
  • Both jackets are uninsulated hardshells, so warmth comes mainly from the layers underneath. As a rough guide, the Stormshield Ultralight is better for warmer, fast-moving or weight-sensitive activities, while the Stormshield Shell is better for colder, more exposed or demanding conditions.
Rough Temperature Typical Conditions / Activities Recommended Shell Suggested Layering
20°C and above Tropical hiking, running, trail running, warm & humid conditions Stormshield Ultralight Base layer
10°C to below 20°C Hiking, trekking, cool-weather travel Stormshield Ultralight or Stornshield Shell Base layer; fleece as required
0°C to below 10°C Cold-weather hiking, exposed mountain conditions, snow sports Stormshield Shell Base layer + fleece
Below 0°C Summit pushes, alpine and winter conditions Stormshield Shell Base layer + fleece; down jacket as required

Note: The Stormshield Ultralight can still be used in cold conditions with appropriate insulation underneath, while the Stormshield Shell can be used in warmer conditions by opening the pit zips and 2-way main zip for additional ventilation when conditions allow. These recommendations show where each shell is best suited, rather than strict temperature limits.

Temperature ranges are approximate. Wind, precipitation, altitude, activity level, layering and personal cold tolerance will all affect comfort.
Which shell is more durable?
  • The Stormshield Shell is more durable and better suited for rough terrain, heavier backpacks and regular outdoor use.
  • The Stormshield Ultralight prioritises low weight and packability, so more care should be taken around sharp rocks, branches and equipment.
Are both shells waterproof, windproof and suitable for snow?

Yes. Both jackets feature a 3-layer TPU membrane and fully taped seams, making them waterproof, windproof and suitable for rain and snow.

  • The Stormshield Shell is recommended for prolonged heavy rain, wet snow and harsher mountain or winter conditions.
  • The Stormshield Ultralight is suitable for moderate rain, light to moderate snow and activities where lower weight and packability are priorities.
Which shell should I choose?
  • Choose the Stormshield Shell for colder, windier or more exposed conditions, prolonged heavy rain, mountaineering, snowboarding, skiing and greater durability.
  • Choose the Stormshield Ultralight for hiking, running, travel, warmer conditions and when low weight and packability are priorities.