Review: First Ascent Hurricane Jacket

The Hurricane is First Ascent’s premium rain jacket. I’ve used it extensively throughout the winter and also took it along on the Eden to Addo corridor hike, where it got put through its paces as we were hit with rain, wind, hail, sleet and even snow.

Quick Specs

Price: R1999 (at time of writing)
Water-resistant membrane: VapourTex (with DWR coating to exterior)
Water column rating: 10000mm
Weight: 500g (Size: Large)

First Impressions and Fit

The jacket feels like it can take quite a beating with what seems to be a fairly abrasion-resistant outer layer. It has a comfortable, roomy fit that allows for freedom of movement without being too baggy. And, though it’s not a technical specification, it does look pretty good too.

Front view of the First Ascent Hurricane jacket.

Features

The Hurricane jacket has all the bells and whistles you would expect from a brand’s leading rain jacket.

Ventilation is achieved through pit-zips with a mesh covering. The mesh stops the pit-zips from opening too wide and letting rain in but also limits maximum venting.

There are two external pockets slanted forward with narrow baffles covering the zips to stop water ingress. There is also one internal pocket with a rubberized headphone-cable port. The external pockets are well positioned and remain usable even while carrying a backpack with a hip belt.

The angled external pockets remain usable with a backpack hip belt.

The generous hood can be adjusted via height, width, and depth toggles, and features a built-in peak that keeps rain out of your eyes when the wet stuff starts coming in sideways.

The adjustable hood with a built-in peak keeps rain out of your face.

The main zip is a YKK waterproof zip that does a decent job of keeping the water out, though a small inner baffle would have added extra security. The cuffs and hem are adjustable with velcro tabs and an elasticated drawstring to seal out wind and lock in warmth.

Shoulders and elbows feature a thin abrasion-resistant print for durability in high-wear areas, though the spacing may still allow regular wear over time.

Reinforced shoulder print adds durability on high-wear areas.

Water Resistance and Breathability

During a day hike on Table Mountain in heavy rain and wind for 5–6 hours, the jacket performed well at keeping out rain. There was some condensation inside, but nothing excessive. The outer layer did stay waterlogged for hours afterward.

Testing the Hurricane jacket on Table Mountain in heavy rain.

On the Eden to Addo hike, the Hurricane held up well for two days of rain, but by the third day—under sleet, hail, and strong wind—water began seeping through the shoulders after hours of exposure. This was likely from backpack pressure forcing moisture through the membrane. Even high-end jackets struggled under the same conditions.

Eventually, the storm passed, but the jacket remained soaked for hours before drying out completely.

The oncoming storm we would be walking in the next day. Photo by Amanda Dixon.

Conclusion

The First Ascent Hurricane is a solid rain jacket for most conditions, from wet day hikes to moderate multi-day storms. It’s comfortable, functional, and protective—but in prolonged, extreme alpine conditions, it may eventually wet through. A great all-rounder for South African hiking weather.

This jacket was supplied by First Ascent for review and can be purchased directly from their website.