A proper clothing system is the best way to stay comfortable in the backcountry. With many shells available on the market it can be difficult to find the item perfect for you.
If maximum water resistance is needed then a hardshell is the best bet. When selecting a hard shell choose one with the greatest breathability possible. If the shell needs to be only weather resistant then a wind shell or more durable soft shell is the best bet. The type of insulation to select can be very confusing. It is generally recommended to select a synthetic insulation if it will get wet. This is because synthetic insulation resists moisture better than down. Down is the best choice if you know you can keep your insulation dry. For base layers Merino Wool is the best choice. This natural fiber resists odor very well and will keep the user comfortable in a variety of temperatures.