If you are looking for waterproof trousers, either for sports purposes or for travelling, you’ll often find the name Gore-Tex showing up. A lightweight, windproof and waterproof, but breathable fabric, Gore-Tex was developed by Wilbert L. Gore, his son Robert, and Rowena Taylor, who patented it in the USA in April 1976. Manufactured from PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), Gore-Tex has a variety of uses, but is best known for rainwear products. But when you look for water trousers – either on the Internet or in real-time stores, be aware that the Gore-Tex patent has expired, and that there are other products on the market that use similar technology for manufacture and have similar waterproof qualities. Some are better than others, but Gore-Tex has stood the test of time.

One of the huge advantages of buying rainwear online is that you will find special offers without tramping around the town looking for the best prices. At Gear-Zone there are some quite interesting specials. You will find some of the most popular brands here, including products that are made from Gore-Tex. But don’t only look here. Do some of your own groundwork – sitting right there, next to your computer. Good luck.

If you do a Google search you will find more than 100 000 web sites that claim to give you reviews that will allow you to compare the quality and price of some of the different waterproof trousers there are on the market, including those designed for specific activities. For instance, Buachaille compares and reviews mountaineering gear, including waterproof trousers. If you use any of these to decide what you want to buy, make sure you have some idea of what your needs are, because many sites have been established to promote a particular brand. Nevertheless you may find some of these sites useful in terms of special offers that change from time to time. Look out for your favourite brands.

Waterproof clothing is not only designed for adults, there are also designs that are suitable for children. While you, as a sporting person would probably look for waterproof trousers that will enable you to hike, cycle or go trekking, kids might simply wear waterproof trousers to play outside on rainy days. If you go to the online shop at Little Trekkers you will find several different brands that are suitable for kids. These include larger-than-most Muddy Puddles, Regatta over-trousers, Togz over-trousers and other makes.

When you are looking for suitable rainwear, it is always a good idea to look for designs that are intended for a specific purpose. For example if you cycle, then buy waterproof trousers and jackets that have been designed for cyclists. These have reinforced seats and knees. If you hike or enjoy trekking, then buy clothing that is suitable for these activities. If you simply want to keep dry when you are walking around outdoors, or if you walk to work, then look out for products that are labelled “walking pants”. Alternatively look for rain pants or over-trousers. At the Outdoor Megastore web site you can buy some of these.

Whatever it is you are using your walking trousers or waterproof gear for, you want it to be lightweight. You also want them to be easy to pack. Alternatively choose trousers that will pack into a small bag. Some of the best designs can be quickly folded and rolled and packed into their own pocket. One brand that has designs that you can easily stuff into their own pocket is North Face.  This company uses a highly breathable, waterproof material, HyVent DT for some of its products. They also produce both ladies’ waterproof trousers and men’s waterproof trousers.

There are various web sites that you can buy this type of product, including Nomad Travel and Outdoor. Browse for “waterproofs” to find out more and order if you want to.

You never know what the weather’s going to do when you go hiking or trekking, but you don’t want to carry heavy waterproof clothing with you. This is why lightweight waterproof over-trousers have become so popular in recent years. Like all good quality, modern walking trousers, those suitable for hiking, trekking and mountain climbing will keep you dry in a sudden downpour if the weather turns bad. Some have a fleece lining that will also keep you warm. Quality varies, but there are few sensible choices that you will find at the online Mountain Warehouse. Have a look to see for yourself.

If you cycle to work (or anywhere else), a lightweight pair of waterproof trousers will keep you dry in wet weather. The best sort are made from a durable material and they have a reinforced seat to make them last longer. The knee area should also be designed for cycling. A number of different manufacturers make men’s waterproof trousers and ladies’ waterproof trousers for cycling, including dhb, Vaude and Altura. Go to the Wiggle web site for more information and a look at some of the most popular products.

One manufacturer of waterproof trousers for both men and women is Galvin Green, a company that specialises in golf wear. Popular items include their waterproof black Alf Trousers for men, launched in 2008. Another is their Aqua Waterproof Golf Trousers which many tour players wear.These combine a PacLite membrane with the waterproof and windproof laminated Gore-Tex material. These pants have a drawstring with an elasticated waist, and are comfortable to wear. They also have a zipped fly opening as well as a zipped trouser leg opening. Made from the same materials, the Galvin Green Afton Ladies Waterproof Trousers are also very popular. Find out more from this online golf shop where you can view and order waterproof golf wear.

When you look for Gore-Tex waterproof trousers, you will find they are available in a range of different brands. One popular type is manufactured by Berghaus, specialists in outdoor equipment and clothing. Founded in 1966 by two keen mountaineers from North East England, the company has been manufacturing products from Gore-Tex since the early 1990s. The Berghaus range includes ladies’ waterproof trousers and men’s waterproof waterproof trousers, as well as mountain and walking trousers. You can buy Berghaus rainwear products from various web stores including