Three Things To Know:
- High-Performance Waterproofing - The jacket has a 20,000 mm HH rating and a 3-layer laminated 100% recycled polyester shell with a PFC-free DWR coating, keeping you dry in heavy rain
- Breathable and Ventilated - Underarm YKK zips allow moisture to escape efficiently during high-output activity, preventing overheating
- Adjustable Practical Features - Fully adjustable hood, cuffs, and hem provide a tailored fit, while waterproof pockets keep essentials dry
Our Rating:
Fit and Comfort
Waterproofing, Wind Protection and Breathability
Practical Features
Durability
Check availability at Passenger.
Passenger is a British brand born from a love of travel, the outdoors, and sustainable living. Its gear combines everyday style with technical performance, using 100% recycled fabrics and PFC-free waterproof coatings, and they plant a tree for every order. The Five Element is a waterproof jacket is designed for real-life adventures – from windy coastal walks to drizzly commutes – offering reliable waterproofing, taped seams, and smart ventilation, all in a relaxed, versatile style.
Here’s how it held up under review.
- Weight: 450g
- Waterproof Rating: 20,000mm
- Breathability Rating: Not specified however its made with 3-layer laminated recycled polyester and has under arm zips
- Intended Use: Hiking, snow activities, walking, coastal walks
- RRP: £169.95
Fit and Comfort
I liked the feel of the Five Element Jacket immediately. Despite being lightweight, it feels robust and sturdy, with a slightly snug fit that still allows plenty of room for underlayers. The hood is a bit snug – I struggled to fit a beanie underneath – but that snugness is reassuring in high winds or horizontal rain, and the laminated peak is very handy. There’s also a concealed adjustable drawcord at the back, though I didn’t need to use it.
Everything on the jacket is adjustable: Velcro cuffs, cord locks on the hem, and underarm zips. The cuffs are a little tight, so rolling the sleeves up is tricky, but that snugness helps keep out wind and rain when the weather turns.
I also appreciate the length: it covers my full back and past my hips, providing solid protection from the elements and the inside is soft against my skin when wearing just a t- shirt underneath.
Waterproofing, Wind Protection and Breathability
The Five Element Jacket boasts a 20,000 mm hydrostatic head (HH) rating, meaning the fabric can withstand the pressure of a 20-metre column of water before leaking – an impressively high level of waterproof protection. The 3-layer laminated recycled polyester fabric held up brilliantly in wet conditions, keeping me completely dry. It also features a Nicca® PFC-free DWR coating, which repels water without harmful chemicals. For practicality, the jacket includes two waterproof YKK zippered side pockets, perfect for keeping essentials secure and dry while on the move.
Breathability on the Five Element Jacket is impressive for a fully waterproof 3-layer laminated shell. The underarm YKK AquaGuard zips provide rapid, controlled ventilation, allowing moisture-laden air to escape efficiently during high-output activity such as steep climbs or brisk walks.
Even after several hours of sustained movement, internal moisture buildup was minimal, and my base layers remained dry and comfortable. With the zip fully up and my face partially covered there was some moisture on the inside of the coat, but that’s to be expected, if a little unpleasant.
Overall, the jacket delivers a well-engineered balance of waterproofing, wind resistance, and breathability, making it technically capable for serious outdoor use while remaining light and versatile enough for everyday wear.
Practical Features
The Five Element Jacket is packed with practical features that make it versatile on the move. The adjustable three-piece hood includes a laminated peak and concealed rear drawcord, allowing a snug, weatherproof fit that accommodates layering hats or beanies if needed. Velcro cuffs provide a secure closure at the wrists, preventing wind and rain from entering, while the elasticated hem with cord locks allows quick micro-adjustments to seal out drafts.
Storage is well thought out, with two waterproof YKK zippered hand pockets that are easily accessible even with a backpack on, keeping essentials safe and dry. Underarm YKK AquaGuard zips double as ventilation channels, letting me regulate airflow during strenuous activity. Every adjustment point feels robust, yet easy to operate with gloves on, making the jacket highly functional for extended walks, coastal hikes, or wet-weather commuting.
Durability
The Five Element Jacket feels robust despite its lightweight construction and recycled materials. The 3-layer laminated recycled polyester fabric has held up well during extended use over rocky trails and coastal paths, showing minimal signs of abrasion. All seams are fully taped, and the YKK zips are sturdy and operate smoothly, even when wet. I’ve noticed no fabric pilling or seam fraying, and the jacket maintains its shape after repeated packing and unpacking. Overall, it strikes a good balance between lightweight performance and long-term durability, making it a reliable choice for regular outdoor use.
Value for Money
The Passenger Five Elements jacket is at the lower end of the price range, and for the style and technology I think it’s well worth the money.
Sustainability
Made from 100% recycled polyester this is a sustainable choice. Passenger also plants a tree for every order they receive and 74% of its products contain recycled or organic materials.
Should You Buy It
This is a great affordable choice for a jacket that is just as comfortable in coastal storms and city showers.
Check availability at Passenger.
Looking to find your perfect walking companion? Why not take a look at our guide to the best lightweight waterproof jackets.
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