Best Rain Jackets of 2026
Stay dry this season as we break down the top rain jackets from all-rounders to lightweight shells for the backcountry
Updated:
May 04, 2026Table of contents
Unlike other waterproof jackets (namely, hardshells or ski shells), rain jackets are designed to be lightweight, flexible, and generally more affordable. Below, we break down the full range of options, all of which have been tested, reviewed, rated, and photographed by the Better Trail team. Our top picks span everything from ultralight designs we’ve worn extensively in the backcountry—including on a thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail—to more casual models suited for everyday use. To narrow down the list, use our sort tool to rank the picks based on our in-house ratings for weather protection, comfort, breathability, durability, and more.
Rain Jacket Superlatives
Black Diamond Fineline ($189)
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L ($189)
REI Co-op Rainier ($100)
Arc'teryx Beta SL ($500)
Patagonia Granite Crest ($289)
Outdoor Research Helium UL ($225)
Mountain Hardwear Threshold ($180)
Our Rain Jacket Picks
The Fineline is an extra-comfortable and easy-moving rain jacket, thanks to a stretch-woven shell and underarm gussets. With a low weight and packable design, it’s suitable for backcountry use. However, it isn’t our first choice as a daily driver due to its trim fit and relatively thin shell fabric.
The Fineline is an extra-comfortable and easy-moving rain jacket, thanks to a stretch-woven shell and underarm gussets. With a low weight and packable design, it’s suitable for backcountry use. However, it isn’t our first choice as a daily driver due to its trim fit and relatively thin shell fabric.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
2.5-layer BD.dry
Weight
11.3 oz.
Fabric
50D stretch-woven nylon
Vents
Pit zips
Packable
Yes (pocket)
Pros
Cons
It’s not every day we see a stretchy rain jacket, but Black Diamond has sold us on the concept with its Fineline Stretch. This 2.5-layer shell (previously sold as the Stormline Stretch) combines a soft, flexible face fabric with underarm gussets and a trim yet accommodating cut that’s ideal for hiking, backpacking, and active movement. Our tester wore the Fineline during stormy conditions in Patagonia’s Chaltén range and was impressed with the jacket’s performance in wind and rain. The DWR finish and BD.dry waterproof membrane kept moisture out in 50 mph gusts and heavy downpours, while the jacket’s high collar and adjustable cuffs helped seal out drafts. We wouldn’t rely on it for multi-day wet weather, but it’s a great companion for day hikes or short backpacking trips in variable conditions.
At just 11.3 ounces for the men’s version (the women’s is 9.5 oz.), the Fineline is firmly in the lightweight category and packs down easily into its hand pocket for storage. Despite its low weight, the jacket still includes some thoughtful features: a helmet-compatible hood with a laminated brim, functional pit zips for venting, and a fairly supple interior that feels less plasticky than most 2.5-layer shells. The printed dot pattern on the inside also boosts moisture-wicking, and our tester found it far more breathable than other jackets in her quiver, such as Cotopaxi’s Teca.
The Fineline’s biggest tradeoff is durability. Its 2.5-layer construction, while lightweight and cost-effective, will break down more quickly over time compared to a full 3-layer build. The hand pockets also sit too low to work with a backpack’s hipbelt, and its single hem adjustment and slightly noisy fabric underscore its minimalist leanings. But for just $189, it’s an excellent value, especially for everyday users and hikers who want solid weather protection without a ton of weight or bulk. For more, read our review of the Black Diamond Fineline.
This is Patagonia's dependable classic with a low price tag. The Torrentshell’s thick, long-lasting shell and knit backer make it a protective and durable daily driver. However, it’s too bulky and stiff for high-output activities or when you want unhindered freedom of movement.
This is Patagonia's dependable classic with a low price tag. The Torrentshell’s thick, long-lasting shell and knit backer make it a protective and durable daily driver. However, it’s too bulky and stiff for high-output activities or when you want unhindered freedom of movement.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
3-layer H2No
Weight
14.1 oz.
Fabric
50D nylon
Vents
Pit zips
Packable
Yes (pocket)
Pros
Cons
For an everyday rain jacket that offers a strong combination of price and performance, it’s hard to beat the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L. The highlight of the Torrentshell is its burly construction: The 50-denier shell fabric is thicker and more hardwearing than that of most rain jackets (enough, for example, for the collar to stand strong when the hood is up), and the moisture-wicking tricot backer (affixed directly to the waterproof membrane) adds more sturdiness to the build. The result is a jacket that withstands the rigors of everyday wear and offers hardshell-like protection in rain and wind. The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L can even pass for winter use in a pinch—our tester wore it on a stormy ski tour and noted that it kept her well protected from the elements, although the hood wasn’t big enough to fit over her ski helmet (it’s also too small for a climbing or bike helmet).
The main downsides to the Torrentshell’s burly construction are the lack of mobility and breathability, making it less than ideal for high-output activities or those that require full freedom of movement (that said, the pit zips do help with ventilation). What’s more, it’s a noticeably loud jacket: With the hood up, it’s hard to hear the outside world over the rustling of the thick fabric. And although the Torrentshell weighs roughly the same as much of the competition, it’s fairly bulky and has several notably budget design features, such as flaps over the zippers (rather than watertight zippers) and a roomier fit, which makes it ill-suited for serious backcountry use. But for walking the dog, commuting to work, or even casual backpacking, the Torrentshell is a dependable and durable classic for a great price. For more, read our review of the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L.
The Granite Crest is a breathable, comfortable, and highly mobile rain jacket with a full suite of performance-oriented features, including a helmet-compatible hood and watertight zippers. However, it's on the expensive side for a rain jacket.
The Granite Crest is a breathable, comfortable, and highly mobile rain jacket with a full suite of performance-oriented features, including a helmet-compatible hood and watertight zippers. However, it's on the expensive side for a rain jacket.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
3-layer H2No Performance Standard
Weight
14.1 oz.
Fabric
30D nylon
Vents
Pit zips
Packable
Yes (pocket)
Pros
Cons
The Torrentshell 3L is a popular choice for everyday use, but the Granite Crest is Patagonia’s more performance-oriented rain jacket. We’re big fans of its relatively thin and flexible 3-layer shell: It’s comfortable, easy to move around in, and quiet, which is a nice change from the stiffer, noisier Torrentshell. Its thin construction also has excellent breathability and the soft backer helps to wick moisture away from the skin; we wore the jacket on a wet and muggy day of mountain biking and it dumped heat better than expected (the pit zips helped). To top it off, the Granite Crest features a well-honed set of activities, including climbing, biking, and backpacking, with a helmet-compatible hood, watertight zippers, a chest pocket, and hand pockets that sit high on the torso for accessibility while wearing a backpack or harness.
We were initially skeptical about how the Patagonia Granite Crest would hold up given its thinner (30D) shell fabric, but it survived a full spring of rigorous use unscathed, which included mountain biking in dense forests and hiking on brushy trails (notably, our light-colored jacket is still stain-free). And although it checks in at the same weight as the Torrentshell, the Granite Crest is more packable, whether you’re stuffing it into its chest pocket or into a small climbing or hip pack. One of our only gripes with the Granite Crest is that the hood cuts off our peripheral vision when paired with a bike helmet, but it is still a bit big around the face when worn over a bare head. That said, for reliable waterproofing and a performance-oriented feature set, the Granite Crest is an ideal rain jacket for active use and backcountry enthusiasts who aren’t too concerned about weight. For more, see our review of the Patagonia Granite Crest.
Arc’teryx’s most approachable hardshell is more durable, breathable, and protective than most 2- and 2.5-layer rain jackets while checking in at a similar weight. However, it’ll cost you $500 and has a rigid, crinkly feel.
Arc’teryx’s most approachable hardshell is more durable, breathable, and protective than most 2- and 2.5-layer rain jackets while checking in at a similar weight. However, it’ll cost you $500 and has a rigid, crinkly feel.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
3-layer Gore-Tex ePE
Weight
12 oz.
Fabric
40D x 70D nylon
Vents
Pit zips
Packable
No
Pros
Cons
No one makes a waterproof shell jacket quite like Arc’teryx. The British Columbia-based company is so committed to creating high-quality products that it doesn’t even bother with 2- or 2.5-layer jackets, which are simply too compromised (including issues with bulk, breathability, and durability). Instead, Arc’teryx offers only 3-layer shells, from superlight designs like the Alpha Lightweight to the all-rounder Beta SL (previously known as the Beta Lightweight). Checking in at a reasonable 12 ounces, the Beta SL ticks all the boxes for just about any use, from around-town wear to backpacking and even the occasional day of ski touring (the hood fits over a climbing helmet but not over a standard ski helmet).
With a hard-wearing shell fabric (40 x 70D), a Gore-Tex ePE membrane, and a soft knit backer, the Arc'teryx Beta SL is, for all intents and purposes, a hardshell jacket. It also comes with a hardshell price tag ($500) and has that crinkly, rigid feel reminiscent of burlier 3-layer shells. However, the investment is worthwhile for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. In the end, the Beta SL is more breathable, durable, and protective than most rain jackets while checking in at a very similar weight (it also has all the features we look for, including two hand pockets, an internal chest pocket, and pit zips). If you want to go even lighter, check out the 8.3-ounce Alpha Lightweight, which is so serious about weight-savings that it features a single chest pocket and far more delicate 20-denier shell fabric. For more, read our review of the Arc'teryx Beta SL.
The Strataline Stretch is a comfortable, breathable 3-layer shell that’s a great fit for active days in mixed conditions. It doesn’t inspire the same confidence as a rigid hardshell in full-on storms, but for hikers who prioritize mobility and all-day wearability, it’s a versatile option.
The Strataline Stretch is a comfortable, breathable 3-layer shell that’s a great fit for active days in mixed conditions. It doesn’t inspire the same confidence as a rigid hardshell in full-on storms, but for hikers who prioritize mobility and all-day wearability, it’s a versatile option.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
3-layer BD.Dry
Weight
12.4 oz.
Fabric
17D nylon
Vents
Pit zips
Packable
Yes (pocket)
Pros
Cons
Similar to how Patagonia’s Granite Crest serves as a more technical and capable alternative to the Torrentshell, Black Diamond’s new Strataline Stretch represents an upgrade to our top-rated Fineline. The Strataline features a 3-layer construction (thicker than the 2.5L Fineline) that feels soft, mobile, and comfortable enough to wear all day. In testing across Utah’s canyon country, it handled wind, light rain, and variable conditions with ease, offering reliable protection without the stiff, crinkly feel typical of hardshells.
At $299, the Strataline is a hefty investment, but our tester was impressed with its emphasis on breathability and movement. The stretch-woven fabric and jersey backer give it a supple, next-to-skin feel, while pit zips and a roomy cut make it easy to regulate heat on the move. It can’t match a Gore-Tex alternative in sustained downpours or harsh alpine conditions, but for hiking, backpacking, and active use in mixed weather, it’s one of the more versatile and wearable shells in its class.
That versatility comes with a few tradeoffs. The thin 17-denier face fabric raises some long-term durability concerns, and the lower hand pockets aren’t ideal with a hipbelt or harness. But for those who prioritize comfort, mobility, and all-day usability over technical chops, the Strataline carves out a compelling niche between traditional hardshells and everyday rain jackets. For more, read our full review of the BD Strataline.
The North Face's lightweight and packable rain jacket for backcountry travel will cost you less than much of the competition. The shell fabric is relatively thick, coated zippers elevate the technical appearance. However, the build quality is average and the coated liner won't last as long as fabric liners.
The North Face's lightweight and packable rain jacket for backcountry travel will cost you less than much of the competition. The shell fabric is relatively thick, coated zippers elevate the technical appearance. However, the build quality is average and the coated liner won't last as long as fabric liners.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
2.5-layer DryVent
Weight
11.6 oz.
Fabric
70D nylon
Vents
Pit zips
Packable
Yes (pocket)
Pros
Cons
The North Face is known for its Summit Series line of gear, designed for some of the world’s top mountain athletes who tackle the most extreme mountain weather. They also have a solid collection of outerwear for mere mortals—the quality drops off significantly, but at least the prices are reasonable. Take the Alta Vista rain jacket, which features a standard 2.5-layer construction, along with TNF’s proprietary DryVent membrane and a 70-denier shell fabric. It’s a budget-oriented design, but additions like pit zips, a stuff pocket, and coated zippers make it a viable option for casual hiking, backpacking, and other backcountry adventures.
A quick reminder about 2.5-layer construction: This is a key way that manufacturers keep the weight and bulk of a rain jacket low, as the “0.5” coating eliminates the need for a fabric liner. However, a jacket like The North Face Alta Vista won’t last as long as a 2 or 3-layer shell (the coating will delaminate over time), and despite the hardwearing 70-denier shell, it doesn’t offer as much structure or breathability as a 3-layer jacket. But the Alta Vista is nevertheless a minimalist yet low-cost design (it’s relatively lightweight at 11.6 oz.), and the coated zippers—not often seen at this price point—go a long way in elevating the jacket’s technical vibe. For more, read our review of the Alta Vista.
Super lightweight and featuring a unique 3.5-layer construction, the Odin Infinity Minimalist is an intriguing option for fast-and-light mountain missions. It lacks some creature comforts and can’t match the build quality of a Gore-Tex shell, but its durability and protection impressed in testing.
Super lightweight and featuring a unique 3.5-layer construction, the Odin Infinity Minimalist is an intriguing option for fast-and-light mountain missions. It lacks some creature comforts and can’t match the build quality of a Gore-Tex shell, but its durability and protection impressed in testing.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
3.5L Helly Tech Professional
Weight
7.6 oz.
Fabric
Nylon
Vents
None
Packable
Yes (pocket)
Pros
Cons
The Helly Hansen Odin Infinity Minimalist slots into the fast-growing ultralight rain shell category but takes a notably more protective approach than most of its featherweight peers. At just 7.6 ounces, it competes with the lightest 3-layer shells on the market, yet its unique 3.5-layer Helly Tech Professional construction boosts durability and weather resistance beyond what we typically expect at this weight. In testing across alpine backpacking in Colorado, a desert canyon trip in Utah, and a winter hut outing, it handled light rain, wind, and snow flurries with confidence. While it’s not the shell we’d choose for all-day downpours, it strikes an impressive balance between protection and packability for fast-moving mountain days.
What really sets the Odin apart is its comfort and breathability. Despite lacking pit zips, it consistently managed moisture well during uphill travel in cool conditions, and we often left it on longer than we would with most minimalist shells. The helmet-compatible hood is a highlight, offering good structure and wind stability, though the overall feature set is intentionally pared down—no hand pockets, no drop hem, and only basic adjustability. Durability is solid for the class but clearly secondary to weight savings, and at $400, the price is steep. Still, if you’re looking to shave ounces without fully committing to a fragile, emergency-only shell, it's one of the most well-rounded ultralight options currently available. For more, read our review of the Odin Infinity Minimalist.
The Kuhl Stretch Voyagr is a stretchy and comfortable rain jacket that gets the job done in moderate to mild conditions, while looking the part. You don’t get technical features like pit zips or a helmet-compatible hood, but it’s a nice daily driver that is also suited for shorter trips into the backcountry.
The Kuhl Stretch Voyagr is a stretchy and comfortable rain jacket that gets the job done in moderate to mild conditions, while looking the part. You don’t get technical features like pit zips or a helmet-compatible hood, but it’s a nice daily driver that is also suited for shorter trips into the backcountry.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
2.5 layer
Weight
12 oz.
Fabric
Polyester
Vents
None
Packable
No
Pros
Cons
Like the brand’s popular pants, the Kuhl Stretch Voyagr makes a great first impression thanks to high-quality materials and great style. As the name suggests, this rain shell falls into the “stretchy jacket” category, offering excellent mobility thanks to its flexible polyester construction. Combined with a lightly textured interior—a nice break from typical 2.5-layer jackets, which are known for their plasticky feel—the Voyagr is one of the more comfortable and mobile rain jackets we’ve worn. Our tester noted: “It’s impressively flexible. I wore it for hours while snowshoeing and never felt restricted or bunchy.” Summed up, it feels more like a lightweight softshell than a rain jacket.
What about weather protection? Pliable shells often are more prone to absorbing moisture, and the Kuhl Stretch Voyagr isn’t immune to this. However, with fully taped seams and a DWR finish, the jacket effectively sheds rain and light snow. To be clear, it’s not a full-on hardshell and doesn’t feel particularly fortress-like in heavy gusts and strong downpours. But it performed similarly to alternatives like the Black Diamond Fineline and withstood steady rain and blowing snow without issue.
The Stretch Voyagr checks in at a relatively light 12 ounces, making it a nice option for hiking, backpacking, travel, and everyday use. That said, it has performance limitations: the jacket lacks pit zips, its hood can’t fit over a helmet, and its level of protection is only average. As such, it’s less tuned for high-output activities or trips into the alpine. However, the price is right at well under $200, and its versatile construction seamlessly transitions between light backcountry use and everyday wear. For more, read our Kuhl Stretch Voyagr review.
With a stretchy, partial-polyester shell, the XeroCloud 3L is softer, suppler, and more moisture-wicking than most rain jackets. REI calls it their “most technical backpacking shell yet,” but the flap-covered pit zips and pocket zippers give the jacket a decidedly casual vibe.
With a stretchy, partial-polyester shell, the XeroCloud 3L is softer, suppler, and more moisture-wicking than most rain jackets. REI calls it their “most technical backpacking shell yet,” but the flap-covered pit zips and pocket zippers give the jacket a decidedly casual vibe.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
3-layer HydroWall
Weight
13.4 oz.
Fabric
Nylon/polyester
Vents
Pit zips
Packable
Yes (pocket)
Pros
Cons
REI Co-op’s in-house apparel is known for value, and the brand generally offers a few rain jackets worth considering for budget-oriented shoppers. However, the new XeroCloud breaks from that script with a more premium 3-layer construction and a quiet, stretchy shell that’s almost sweatshirt-like. It’s still decently priced at $189, but the headliner here isn’t so much the jacket’s price tag as it is its comfort.
We tested the REI XeroCloud 3L during a month-long trip to Southern Patagonia and grew fond of the shell for its easy-wearing, hyper-mobile nature. Many 3-layer rain jackets feel rigid and crinkly like a hardshell, but not the XeroCloud. Yet, despite its supple personality, it still delivers the durability and long-lasting waterproofing of a 3-layer build, plus a soft, moisture-wicking liner next to the skin. The XeroCloud also checks most of our must-have features—pit zips, a chest pocket, and a sleek water-resistant front zip—though unfortunately, its hand pockets aren’t hipbelt-compatible.
However, while the XeroCloud receives high marks for comfort and breathability, its waterproofing falls short of premium 3-layer competitors. Initially, the DWR beaded moisture impressively well in a brief shower, but during sustained rain, wet spots began forming on the chest and arms. More importantly, REI’s HydroWall membrane simply can’t compete with Gore-Tex. That said, if comfort and mobility matter as much to you as waterproofing, the XeroCloud is an attractive choice—especially for short thunderstorms or light rain. And if you're between sizes, we recommend sizing up. For more, read our in-depth review of the REI Co-op XeroCloud 3L.
A modern rendition of a long-time classic, the Minimalist offers lightweight Pertex waterproofing in a versatile jacket that can double for everyday and backcountry use. However, the 2.5-layer construction isn’t particularly durable or breathable, and the shell fabric wets out in sustained moisture.
A modern rendition of a long-time classic, the Minimalist offers lightweight Pertex waterproofing in a versatile jacket that can double for everyday and backcountry use. However, the 2.5-layer construction isn’t particularly durable or breathable, and the shell fabric wets out in sustained moisture.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
2.5-layer Pertex Shield Resolve
Weight
12 oz.
Fabric
Polyester
Vents
Pit zips
Packable
No
Pros
Cons
The Minimalist isn’t the most feature-packed, lightest, most protective, or most breathable rain shell we’ve tested—but it scores well across all of those metrics. When you consider that you get all that for less than $200, it becomes clear that this is a well-designed jacket. Marmot, which usually falls more on the budget side of the spectrum, kitted it out with a 2.5-layer Pertex Shield Resolve membrane. The build doesn’t have the unimpeachable waterproofing (or breathability) of most 3-layer shells, but it kept our tester dry during passing showers and sealed off from the wind over several months of hikes, beach walks, and around-town use on Spain’s rain-soaked northern coast. In shorter storms, its high, comfy collar, excellent adjustable hood, and hem cinch do a fine job of keeping the outside, well, outside.
Rather than the plasticky, crinkly feel you sometimes get at this price point and membrane type, the Minimalist doesn’t fall into that trap. Its interior fabric feels noticeably better against the skin than many 2.5-layer jackets, to the point that we wouldn’t hesitate to wear it over a T-shirt. The cut is also slightly boxy, which works well if you want to throw a fleece or a thin puffy underneath. And while the face fabric isn’t as supple as competitors like the Black Diamond Fineline Stretch, it never prevented our tester from moving the way he wanted.
The Minimalist’s breathability is as expected, in that it allows enough airflow in cool conditions and during moderate exercise, but suffers as the temperature and/or your output begin to rise. Our tester was grateful for the pit zips when he was slogging uphill, but he admitted that this isn’t the shell for pushing yourself hard. The Minimalist is still protective and breathable enough for normal hiking and backpacking in cool, unsettled weather, though, and in those conditions there’s really no downside to bringing it along: At 12 ounces and with a packed size roughly that of a softball, it’s neither too bulky nor too heavy. This isn’t an all-star shell, but the Minimalist nails its role at a reasonable price point. For more, read our review of the Marmot Minimalist Pertex.
The Beta is Arc’teryx’s premium 3-layer Gore-Tex rain jacket for frontcountry and light backcountry use. The lack of pit zips and a helmet-compatible hood limits its versatility (and $400 is a lot to spend on a fairly simple rain shell), but it's a long-lasting choice with a low weight.
The Beta is Arc’teryx’s premium 3-layer Gore-Tex rain jacket for frontcountry and light backcountry use. The lack of pit zips and a helmet-compatible hood limits its versatility (and $400 is a lot to spend on a fairly simple rain shell), but it's a long-lasting choice with a low weight.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
3-layer Gore-Tex ePE
Weight
13.2 oz.
Fabric
80D nylon
Vents
None
Packable
No
Pros
Cons
Arc’teryx’s Beta lineup is home to their most versatile waterproof apparel, and the standard Beta Jacket is a solid go-to for frontcountry and occasional backcountry use. With a durable 80-denier plain-weave nylon shell, 3-layer Gore-Tex construction, and a soft C-Knit backer, the Beta is among the most premium rain jackets available—offering top-tier weather protection and longevity compared to most designs in this category. And no matter where you take it, the Beta looks the part—we’ve worn it on weekend backpacking trips, ice climbing in Hyalite, and as an everyday shell around our PNW home. With a regular cut that’s neither too sleek nor too boxy, it fits in just as well on city streets as on a mountain ridgeline.
The Arc'teryx Beta’s feature set does have us scratching our heads a bit, with one foot in the performance game and the other solidly in a casual state of mind. The hood is surprisingly simple for a pseudo-hardshell: it’s not helmet-compatible, has a laminated brim, and adjusts with a single pull cord in the back. The omission of pit zips backs up this pared-down, “don’t sweat it” vibe, though it could be a dealbreaker for some (if so, check out the Beta SL). On the other hand, the hand pockets sit high on the torso (ostensibly for backpack use), which slightly contradicts the rest of the feature set. Still, few rain jackets match the Beta’s mix of versatility and premium build quality, making it a top choice for those in rainy climates seeking a one-quiver shell. For a deeper dive, check out our Arc'teryx Beta review.
The Threshold boasts reliable waterproofing and a comfortable 3-layer shell for a low price. The 70-denier fabric boosts durability for daily wear but the jacket is still light and packable enough for casual backcountry use. However, the thick shell fabric does not breathe particularly well.
The Threshold boasts reliable waterproofing and a comfortable 3-layer shell for a low price. The 70-denier fabric boosts durability for daily wear but the jacket is still light and packable enough for casual backcountry use. However, the thick shell fabric does not breathe particularly well.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
3-layer DryQ
Weight
12.9 oz.
Fabric
70D nylon
Vents
Pit zips
Packable
Yes (pocket)
Pros
Cons
The Mountain Hardwear Threshold is another rain jacket that pulls off a 3-layer design at a relatively low price point. As a reminder, compared to 2.5-layer construction, 3-layer jackets are more durable and feel less plasticky, which translates to better breathability and a softer next-to-skin feel. At just $180, it’s a lot of bang for your buck, and includes some extra technical features like a water-resistant front zip that actually works—our tester wore her jacket in the shower and the coated zipper effectively kept moisture out. All things considered, it’s an excellent pairing for activities like hiking, biking, and casual backcountry use, and the burly 70-denier shell fabric means the jacket doubles well as a daily driver.
The Mountain Hardwear Threshold’s thick fabric and in-house membrane aren’t a super breathable combination (we certainly wouldn't want to run in it), but the pit zips are a great addition for hiking in muggy conditions. And while 3-layer jackets are generally heavier than 2.5-layer offerings, the Threshold weighs in at a nice middle ground (12.9 oz.) and stuffs down into its own pocket—it’s not ultralight by any means, but it’s not overly heavy, either. Size-wise, our tester found that it runs large: She used the size guide to choose a women’s medium, but the jacket was way too roomy and had to be returned for a women’s small. Even in the smaller size, the jacket could be layered over a lightweight down jacket, and the long torso length offered great coverage past the hips (something we always prefer for camping, biking, or when carrying a backpack). For more, read our review of the Mountain Hardwear Threshold.
REI’s budget rain jacket is a functional option for occasional hiking and daily use, with a lightweight build, pit zips, and a number of adjustable features. However, it will wet out in sustained moisture and the 2.5-layer construction is prone to delamination.
REI’s budget rain jacket is a functional option for occasional hiking and daily use, with a lightweight build, pit zips, and a number of adjustable features. However, it will wet out in sustained moisture and the 2.5-layer construction is prone to delamination.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
2.5-layer HydroWall
Weight
11.3 oz.
Fabric
Ripstop nylon
Vents
Pit zips
Packable
Yes (pocket)
Pros
Cons
At $100, REI Co-op’s Rainier is first and foremost a budget rain jacket. It keeps costs low with an in-house waterproof/breathable membrane, a coated liner (the 0.5 in the jacket’s 2.5-layer construction), and a relatively unrefined fit that makes little effort to be stylish (you might consider sizing down). That said, the Rainier still provides ample protection in a light drizzle or heavy wind: We wore the jacket over a base layer in blustery conditions in Washington’s Enchantments—battening down the hatches with the hook-and-loop cuffs, hem cinch, and hood (which adjusts both at the rear and the front)—and felt well protected against the chilly, low 40s Fahrenheit breeze. It’s also relatively lightweight at just 11.3 ounces and packs down into its own pocket, making it a reasonable jacket to bring along on most human-powered adventures.
While the REI Co-op Rainier effectively fends off light drizzles and intermittent showers, it’s less reliable in steady rain: In our experience, moisture starts to soak into the shell fabric after about a half-hour of exposure. What’s more, the jacket grows clammy when zipped up, especially in warm temperatures or during high-output activities. REI did incorporate venting via pit zips (you can also open up the mesh hand pockets to increase airflow), but the coated interior will still feel sticky next to the skin. Not only that, this coated interior will likely start to break down after a year or so of steady use—in contrast, the fabric backer of a 3-layer design will hold up season after season. But for an around-town jacket or occasional hiking shell with great storage (including two hand pockets and two interior drop pockets) and a low price tag, the Rainier is worth a look. For more, read our review of the REI Rainer Rain Jacket.
The lightest of the light, OR Helium excels as an emergency layer when showers are in the forecast. The latest UL model is a leap forward in comfort and style, but it sacrifices breathability and will soak through in sustained precipitation.
The lightest of the light, OR Helium excels as an emergency layer when showers are in the forecast. The latest UL model is a leap forward in comfort and style, but it sacrifices breathability and will soak through in sustained precipitation.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
2.75-layer Dermizax
Weight
5.7 oz.
Fabric
15D nylon
Vents
None
Packable
Yes (pocket)
Pros
Cons
The Outdoor Research Helium UL is nothing if not ultralight. At just 5.7 ounces, it’s easily one of the lightest shells we’ve tested, making it a solid emergency layer for weight-conscious endeavors while still offering decent moisture protection with a waterproof membrane and taped seams. On a recent multi-pitch climb near Leavenworth, Washington, we were happy to have it stuffed at the bottom of our pack when a surprise storm hit, and we bring it along on fair-weather backpacking trips as a just-in-case layer. The same goes for a family trip to Orlando, Florida: our tester kept it always close at hand for when the skies inevitably unleashed.
Outdoor Research keeps weight low with a 3D-printed liner (the “0.75” in the jacket's 2.75-layer construction), thin 15-denier shell fabric, a trim fit, and a streamlined feature set that forgoes pit zips and cuff adjustments. But the design still offers some functional features, including a chest pocket (the women’s version features two hand pockets instead), a hood adjustment, and a hem cinch. Our tester also noted its comfort: the new liner is far softer than the prior generation’s coated half-layer, and he had no complaints while wearing it both casually and while mountain biking.
If a surprise rain shower strikes, you’ll be glad you brought the Helium UL, but this isn’t the jacket you want when you know you’ll be facing heavy precipitation. The thin construction can only hold up so long before the fabric presses into your arms and shoulders. If you’re on the move or the temps are warm, you’ll also quickly overheat, as the jacket lacks pit zips or vents of any kind. The jacket also doesn’t pair well with anything bulkier than a light midlayer given its trim fit. In the end, it’s all about selecting the right tool for the job; for impressive emergency weather protection that’s just a smidge heavier and bulkier than a windbreaker, the Helium UL is hard to beat. For more, see our Helium UL review.
A recent revamp to an old classic, the new Foray features OR’s 3-layer AscentShell Dry construction and Nikwax Direct.Dry DWR. But while it offers reliable protection against wet weather, it’s pricier than alternatives and has a fairly clunky design that lacks a premium feel.
A recent revamp to an old classic, the new Foray features OR’s 3-layer AscentShell Dry construction and Nikwax Direct.Dry DWR. But while it offers reliable protection against wet weather, it’s pricier than alternatives and has a fairly clunky design that lacks a premium feel.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
3-layer AscentShell Dry
Weight
15.3 oz.
Fabric
40D nylon
Vents
Hem to bicep
Packable
No
Pros
Cons
The Foray (and women’s Aspire) is a long-time staple in Outdoor Research’s rain jacket lineup, but this year it got a complete refresh. The newest version replaces the previous model’s 2.5-layer Gore-Tex Paclite construction with a 3-layer AscentShell Dry—a more waterproof (and less breathable) counterpart to OR’s lauded AscentShell Air, which also features a bit of stretch. However, it retains many of its trademark features, including vents that extend from the hip to the bicep, coated zippers, a relatively thick (40D) face fabric, and a hardwearing construction that threads the needle between a rain jacket and a hardshell. And we’d be remiss not to mention that the Foray is the outdoor industry’s first piece of technical apparel to be certified carbon-neutral by Climate Impact Partners, thanks to its new Nikwax Direct.Dry DWR and fully recycled fabric.
We took the women’s Aspire 3L on a rainy early-summer backpacking trip in Washington’s Enchantments; it provided confidence-inspiring protection against heavy wind and rain, and moisture dutifully beaded up on the shell fabric rather than soaking through. However, the jacket disappointed us with its clunky features. The fabric flaps over the hand pockets and vent zips are bulky and budget-looking, and the hem adjustment feels cheap: On our jacket, a frayed piece of fabric and stitching protrudes from one of the grommets (by design, it also only cinches the back half of the hem). What’s more, the Aspire is less-than-ideal when worn underneath a backpack—there’s a lot of extra material, the hem-to-bicep zippers cause pressure points under the hipbelt, and the standard-height hand pockets are difficult to access. For more, read our Outdoor Research Aspire 3L review.
REI's lowest-priced rain jacket for occasional use around town, the Trailmade will keep out light rain or short showers. Its hanging liner is more comfortable than the plasticky interior of a 2.5-layer jacket. However, we don’t recommend it for active use given its heavy, bulky design and lack of breathability.
REI's lowest-priced rain jacket for occasional use around town, the Trailmade will keep out light rain or short showers. Its hanging liner is more comfortable than the plasticky interior of a 2.5-layer jacket. However, we don’t recommend it for active use given its heavy, bulky design and lack of breathability.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Waterproofing
2-layer
Weight
15.5 oz.
Fabric
Polyester
Vents
None
Packable
No
Pros
Cons
The REI Co-op Trailmade doesn’t have many real performance highlights, but there’s nevertheless a lot to like about it for around-town use. For one, it’s just $70, making it an excellent option for those who live in areas that experience rain only a few times a year. Second, compared to the plasticky interior of many 2.5-layer designs, the hanging mesh (upper body) and taffeta (lower body and sleeves) liner is relatively comfortable and layers well over everything from a t-shirt to a sweater. Its budget materials are unreliable in heavy or sustained rain, but the REI Co-op Trailmade effectively fends off light showers with a waterproof membrane, PFC-free DWR finish, and hood.
Despite its name, we don’t recommend the Trailmade for hiking or backcountry use. The jacket’s 2-layer construction is bulky, heavy, and traps heat—and with no pit zips, there’s no quick way to vent. It also lacks cuff adjustments, a rear hood adjustment, and a chest pocket; furthermore, the flap does not secure over the center zipper (most jackets use hook-and-loop tabs to hold it in place). All told, the Trailmade has a decidedly budget feel, and its lower-grade performance won’t make it a top pick for many. But if you’re not venturing too far from shelter and want to save your pennies for something more fun than a rain jacket, it has its place. For more, read our review of the REI Trailmade.
Compare Rain Jackets
The Fineline is an extra-comfortable and easy-moving rain jacket, thanks to a stretch-woven shell and underarm gussets. With a low weight and packable design, it’s suitable for backcountry use. However, it isn’t our first choice as a daily driver due to its trim fit and relatively thin shell fabric.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
This is Patagonia's dependable classic with a low price tag. The Torrentshell’s thick, long-lasting shell and knit backer make it a protective and durable daily driver. However, it’s too bulky and stiff for high-output activities or when you want unhindered freedom of movement.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
The Granite Crest is a breathable, comfortable, and highly mobile rain jacket with a full suite of performance-oriented features, including a helmet-compatible hood and watertight zippers. However, it's on the expensive side for a rain jacket.
Weather Protection
Comfort
Breathability
Weight & Packability
Durability
Sustainability
Rain Jackets Out for Testing
Rab Phantom ($200): The Lightest of Them All
Weighing just 4.1 ounces and packing down into its own hood to roughly palm size, the Rab Phantom is about as minimalist as rain protection gets. More than anything, it's an appealing just-in-case layer for climbers, trail runners, fastpackers, and anyone else obsessively conserving space and weight—when we asked our resident mountain running tester if he wanted to try it, his answer was an immediate, enthusiastic “YES.” But as with all ultralight apparel, we suspect the Phantom is compromised. We're curious how well it dumps heat and how confidence-inspiring it feels when the sky really opens up. It’s easy to love the Phantom on paper; the real question is whether we'll feel equally psyched once we have to rely on it.
Montbell Versalite ($285): An Updated Classic
Montbell updated its cult-favorite ultralight Versalite for fall 2025, replacing the previous 2-layer Gore-Tex Windstopper with a new 3-layer Super Dry-Tec construction that promises improved protection and breathability. Impressively, the jacket now weighs just 5.9 ounces—somehow even lighter than before. The outgoing version has long been, in our view, one of the most well-executed ultralight rain jackets on the market (read our review of the Versalite), so expectations are high as we begin testing the revamped Versalite.
Want More Options?
Decision fatigue is real. The rain jackets above represent our small group of selects, but we’ve researched and tested a much larger pool of products. You can view all the jackets we've reviewed below.
Our Testing and Team
Our team of hikers, backpackers, thru-hikers, climbers, and trail runners gets out a lot—and inevitably ends up in plenty of rain and wind. That kind of real-world exposure gives us performance insights you simply can’t pull from a spec sheet. We’re asking questions like: How long does the DWR coating actually last? Does the fabric soften over time or stay crinkly and loud? And what types of trips is each jacket truly best suited for?
We also lean on our team’s deep experience—our co-founders alone bring over four decades of gear review expertise—to place each product in the broader market and draw meaningful comparisons. The result is a guide that spans everything from budget-friendly rain jackets to premium designs, backed by real-world testing and detailed ratings. All told, our team has tested well over 75 rain jackets across thousands of hours of use.
Highlights from Better Trail’s rain jacket testing:
- Globetrotting gear tester Jade Downing took the Arc’teryx Beta SL backpacking in New Zealand, even sleeping with it covering her face while she cowboy camped on a drizzly night. She came away impressed by the impenetrable feel of the Gore-Tex build.
- Triple-crowner Alex Droubay packed the Montbell Versalite on his thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail, a 3,100-mile journey from the Mexican to Canadian border.
- In more international testing, frequent gear testers Jonas and Mimi Hill got to know their Marmot Minimalist Pertex and Patagonia Boulder Fork rain shells throughout a wet winter in Northern Spain.
- Co-founder Jenny Abegg relied on the REI Xerocloud 3L to fend off brutal winds and rainstorms during a month-long trip in El Chaltén, Argentina.
- Vivika Stamolis is best known at Better Trail for her otherworldly carving skills on skis, but she’s also a charger on a mountain bike. The packable and breathable Patagonia Granite Crest proved to be a reliable companion during testing in the Pacific NorthWET.
Our Ratings Explained
Our overall rating considers the product’s complete picture, encompassing price, build quality, performance (based on intended use), durability, sustainability, and more. At the high end of the rating scale are standout rain jackets that offer something special, whether they’re the crème de la crème models or budget designs that provide a savvy combination of price and performance. If you ask us, most readers should be looking to purchase a rain jacket with an above-average overall rating—there’s simply little reason not to. That said, rain jackets with lower overall ratings are still notable enough to have made our list; for various reasons, these might be compelling options for users with specific design preferences or those who go out only a few times a year.
To be sure, the ideal rain jacket tops the charts in terms of weather protection, including keeping out both wind and rain. However, there are some tradeoffs here: Most notably, exceptionally waterproof and windproof jackets can suffer in terms of breathability (it’s a big ask to require a fabric to keep out water and wind while still allowing air to pass through), and jackets that excel in both areas tend to be pricey. But if you’re traveling deep into the backcountry, anticipate wet weather, and need protection at all costs, you’ll want to aim for a jacket high on our weather protection scale. If you’re in the market for a just-in-case rain jacket or plan to use it for the odd rainy day around town, you can drop down in the rating.
No-holds-barred protection against wind and rain, thanks to a Gore-Tex membrane (or similar), relatively thick shell fabric, taped seams, and reliable DWR finish.
Average waterproofing, due to budget (like HydroWall and DryVent) or ultralight (Proflex and Pertex Shield) membranes.
Emergency waterproof protection for passing storms. Membranes will quickly be overwhelmed in heavy rain. These jackets often have partially taped seams or rely heavily on the water-resistant finish to wick moisture off the shell, which you’ll want to maintain.
Comfort isn’t the number-one consideration when choosing a rain jacket, but it certainly doesn’t hurt. This rating takes into account factors like fit, fabric pliability (i.e., is the shell stiff or stretchy?), and the next-to-skin feel of the fabric backer or laminate liner. If you live in a wet climate such as the Pacific Northwest and consistently hike in the rain, or often pair your rain jacket with just a t-shirt, you should aim for a shell that scores high on our comfort scale. However, if you only wear your rain jacket occasionally and always layer it over a long-sleeve base layer or midlayer, comfort can take a backseat.
Top-notch comfort for a rain jacket, thanks to supple or stretchy shell fabrics, a soft knit backer, and refined fit. Doesn’t feel clammy or plasticky next to the skin.
Average comfort. Thick and crinkly shell fabrics or plasticky next-to-skin feel.
Poor comfort.
If you’re wearing your rain jacket during sweat-inducing activities like hiking, backpacking, or biking, you’ll want to consider breathability. A breathable jacket wicks moisture away from the body and releases built-up heat via pit zips and air-permeable materials. On the other hand, a jacket that scores low on our breathability scale doesn’t offer a good way for sweat to escape, which can lead to overheating and a clammy interior. However, if you’re primarily wearing your jacket around town for errands and commuting, you can likely get away with a less breathable design. Many premium rain jackets manage to be both waterproof and breathable, whereas mid- and entry-level designs are often forced to compromise between the two.
Great breathability, thanks to generous pit zips, thin and air-permeable shell fabrics, a premium membrane, and a moisture-wicking backer. Waterproofing might fall short.
Average breathability due to cheap membranes, plasticky or thick taffeta liners, or particularly thick shell fabrics.
Poor breathability. No pit zips.
A rain jacket’s weight and packability are worth considering if you plan to wear it during strenuous activity or take it with you into the backcountry; the extra weight and bulk will add up over time, whether the jacket is on your body or in your backpack. Ultralight backpackers and climbers, in particular, will want an ultralight and packable shell; however, these shells do have a fair number of trade-offs. Generally, they’re trimmer-fitting and do not layer well over bulky midlayers, have streamlined feature sets (including minimal pockets and adjustments), and aren’t as waterproof as heavier designs. Unless you have a reason to need a minimalist shell, we recommend aiming for jackets at the mid-to-lower end of our weight and packability scale.
Very low weight and packed size thanks to streamlined features, a trim fit, and a thin shell. These jackets are the lightest of the light, generally weighing less than 11 ounces for the men’s medium.
Average weight and packed size—around 12 to 16 ounces for the men’s medium. Fully featured and sized to accommodate bulky layers. Generally 2.5- and 3-layer construction.
Heavy for a rain jacket and not recommended for hiking or backcountry use. These jackets often feature 2-layer construction or thick shell fabrics.
In the rain jacket category, durability is a hot topic. The 2.5-layer construction is the primary culprit here—it shaves weight by substituting the fabric liner of a 2- or 3-layer design with a coated liner, but is much more fragile than a fabric liner and prone to delamination. Aside from the 2.5-layer issue, other factors affecting durability include the thickness of the shell fabric and zippers and the overall quality of construction. If you want to get a lot of life out of your jacket or anticipate subjecting it to hard use, we recommend aiming high on our durability scale. Most of these jackets feature 3-layer construction. But if you’re willing to give up some durability for other performance factors (namely, weight savings) or cost savings, you can drop down.
Excellent durability thanks to a thick shell fabric, substantial zippers, substantial fabric backer, and high-quality, 3-layer construction. These jackets should last for years and years of hard use.
Average durability: Thick 2.5-layer jackets or budget 2-layer designs.
Ultralight 2.5-layer jackets with particularly thin shell fabrics.
Our sustainability rating for rain jackets considers ten distinct criteria. At the product level, we’re looking for recycled or Bluesign-approved materials, Fair Trade Certified production, and PFAS/PFC-free waterproof membranes and durable water-repellent finishes. On the brand level, our criteria include whether the company has a dedicated resale or recycling program, uses recycled or reduced packaging, monitors greenhouse gas emissions, and publishes an annual impact report. Rain jackets with a high sustainability rating meet several of these criteria, while those with a lower sustainability rating may meet none or just a few. We also consider the degree to which our criteria are met; for example, 10% recycled materials is not the same as 100% recycled materials. Note that not every sustainability effort by a brand or product aligns neatly with our categories. In these circumstances, we may adjust a rating based on these factors. You can find details on these factors in the sustainability drop-down under each product above.
These jackets are among the most sustainable on the market and earn our Better Trail Certified distinction. They often meet most of our sustainability criteria for this category.
These jackets are a good, middle-of-the-pack option for sustainability. They often meet about half or more of our criteria for this category.
These jackets are the least sustainable and have significant room for improvement. They usually only meet about a quarter or less of our criteria.
Anatomy of a Rain Jacket
Most rain jackets feature a face fabric made of 100% nylon or polyester. The thickness of this fabric varies and is specified in terms of denier. Rain jacket shells range from about 7-denier to 70-denier—the thinner the face fabric, the lighter (and generally less durable) the jacket will be. Some shells, including the Kuhl Stretch Voyagr and Black Diamond Fineline Stretch, use a stretch-woven face fabric that combines nylon or polyester with elastane for a more supple and pliable feel. All rain jacket shells feature a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish that causes moisture to bead up and roll off the exterior rather than seep through. This is the jacket’s first line of defense against rain.
Affixed to the back of the face fabric is a waterproof/breathable membrane. Of these, Gore-Tex is the most premium membrane, but there are also several in-house efforts, including Patagonia’s H2No Performance Standard and Black Diamond’s BD.dry. The job of the waterproof/breathable membrane is to keep all moisture out while still allowing air to pass from the inside out. It’s a tough job and not all membranes do it well—expect Gore-Tex to perform the best, and budget membranes like The North Face's DryVent and REI's HydroWall to fare worse.
Every waterproof jacket has a liner, which protects the waterproof membrane from abrasion and degradation from the body’s oils, wicks moisture away from the skin, and helps to boost comfort. The style of liner (an affixed or hanging piece of fabric or a thin coating) is the primary differentiator between the three rain jacket constructions. These include a hanging fabric or mesh liner (2L), a printed or sprayed-on liner (2.5L), and an affixed fabric liner (3L).
In a 2-layer jacket (like the REI Co-op Trailmade), the membrane is covered with a hanging mesh or taffeta liner. This is the bulkiest solution for protecting the membrane and is typically found in entry-level and budget designs. Taffeta-lined jackets are decently durable, while mesh-lined jackets leave the membrane slightly more susceptible to damage.
Jackets with 2.5-layer construction (e.g., Black Diamond's Fineline Stretch) showcase the most streamlined way of protecting a membrane—with a coated, printed, or sprayed-on liner. These liners can range from cheap, plasticky-feeling coatings to high-end prints that are soft and moisture-wicking—although none are quite as moisture-wicking or cozy next to the skin as the affixed fabric of a 3-layer jacket. Where the 2.5-layer construction excels most is in its low weight and packability. The downside, however, is that a 2.5-layer construction tends to be fragile: The membrane is more vulnerable to abrasion compared to a full-on fabric liner and has a tendency to delaminate (literally peel off) over time.
Finally, jackets with 3-layer construction feature a fabric backer affixed directly to the waterproof/breathable membrane. These knit backers add some structure to the jacket, are generally soft and moisture-wicking next to the skin, and breathe well. Importantly, they also fully protect the membrane. Three-layer jackets certainly offer the most high-end feel and durable construction, but they aren’t as lightweight and flexible as 2.5-layer jackets and might feel overkill for some uses. Patagonia's Torrentshell 3L and Granite Crest are two of the most popular 3-layer jackets.
For more of our thoughts, check out our article Evolved: The Shift from 2.5- to 3-Layer Rain Jackets.
All good rain jackets feature seam taping, a strip of waterproof tape placed over the tiny holes caused by stitching. On a 2-layer jacket, these are affixed directly to the membrane; on 2.5- and 3-layer designs, they come after the affixed liner.
Without exception, every rain jacket has a hood. There are a few factors to consider, including the hood’s size and adjustability. The hoods on many casual or hiking-oriented jackets are designed to fit cleanly over a bare head or a streamlined beanie or ballcap. In contrast, more performance-oriented jackets (like the Patagonia Granite Crest) feature helmet-compatible hoods. Keep in mind that helmet-compatible hoods generally fit over climbing helmets, but they can be a tight squeeze over bike and ski helmets. If you don’t plan on wearing a helmet, we recommend opting for a jacket with a standard-sized (non-helmet-compatible) hood; despite their ability to cinch down, larger hoods can feel excessive when worn over bare heads.
Hood adjustments are essential for several reasons: they pull the hood’s fabric away from your face to provide a clear field of vision and keep it secure on your head in windy conditions. Most hoods adjust from a single pull tab at the back, which can usually be cinched with one hand. Some hoods instead (or additionally) feature drawcords on each side at the front. Oftentimes, budget designs will use a velcro tab rather than a drawcord; this construction saves money, but it’s not as convenient to use.
Most rain jackets have two hand pockets, either low along the hem (ideal for casual use) or closer to the chest, allowing for access over a backpack hipbelt or harness. These are generally the largest pockets on a rain jacket and are large enough to fit a small pair of gloves or a beanie, your phone and wallet, or—in the case of one of our testers—a hamburger and fries. We’re also big fans of jackets that tack on a chest pocket—this is our favorite place to store valuables. Finally, some rain jackets have internal drop pockets, which are a great place to keep gloves warm and dry. In most cases, rain jackets have a pocket that can be used to store itself—keep an eye out for a double-sided zipper to take advantage of this feature.
If you’re caught out in heavy rain, you’ll want to be able to batten down the hatches of your rain jacket. Along with a hood, hem and cuff adjustments help form seals around a jacket’s edges. All but the most ultralight rain jackets feature cuff adjustments, which use a hook-and-loop tab to tighten or loosen the fabric. We find ourselves using this feature most when a rain jacket’s arms are longer than we’d prefer; the adjustment secures them around the wrist and helps keep them out of the way of the hand.
It’s rare to see a rain jacket without a hem adjustment. These are situated at the hip (fully featured jackets have one on each side, while ultralight jackets usually have one on the right) and can be tightened by pulling with one hand. They generally take two hands to loosen. Note that one-sided hip cinches can result in a bit of a lopsided look at the hem.
Rain jackets do a great job of keeping cold wind and moisture out, but this often results in compromised breathability. To help, most use some form of venting. The most popular style of ventilation is pit zips—these are usually 12 to 18-inch zippers located under the arms, extending from the bicep to the chest. They’re focused on an area of high heat and low exposure, so you can let your body’s heat escape without exposing it to the elements.
There are a few outliers: The Norrøna Falketind Dri1 features a core vent instead of pit zips. Placed parallel to the front zipper, this vent can be easily opened to release heat from the chest. It saves on weight with just one zipper, but it’s not as effective as pit zips and exposes the chest to driving rain. Another exception to the rule is the Outdoor Research Foray 3L, which has vents that extend from the hip to the bicep. The intention here is that you can open up your jacket and wear it like a poncho, which can be helpful when wearing a backpack. However, for most uses, we’re not sold on the practicality of full side vents.
How Should I Size My Rain Jacket?
Rain jackets range from streamlined, trim-fitting pieces to roomy shells with ample space for layering underneath. In general, most ultralight, hiking-focused, or performance-oriented rain jackets are on the trim side, whereas casual designs tend to have a more relaxed fit. We’ve made sure to specify the fit in the majority of the write-ups above: In general, a trim fit allows for lean layers such as a base layer or thin fleece jacket, while a regular fit gives you the option of layering your rain jacket over a down or synthetic insulated jacket or a thick sweater.
Unless you’re super conscious about weight or only get out in warmer temperatures, it’s often a good idea to size up with a trim-fitting jacket, especially if you’re between sizes. We’ve tested one too many rain jackets that fit too tightly over our midlayer, which is an unflattering look (picture the midlayer bulging out from below the rain jacket’s hem) and limits mobility.
Your Questions Answered
These are waterproof and breathability ratings. It’s not as simple as a jacket being waterproof and breathable or not: As with most things, there is a spectrum.
The outdoor industry uses the hydrostatic head (HH) rating to specify a jacket’s level of waterproofing, which is determined via a “water-column test.” In this test, a jacket is placed under a column of water, which gradually increases in pressure until the water begins to soak through the fabric. A HH rating of 10,000 millimeters indicates that 10,000 millimeters of water was placed in the column before compromising the waterproof membrane. Rain jackets typically start at 10,000mm (often specified as 10K) and go up to about 28,000mm, which is the rating given to most Gore-Tex designs.
Rain jackets also have breathability ratings, which ironically fall into a similar number range. The breathability rating measures the amount of moisture (in grams) that can pass through a piece of fabric (in square meters) over 24 hours. Most rain jackets start around 10,000 g/m²/24 h (also specified as 10K) and range up to about 40,000 g/m²/24 h. These numbers are then combined, with the first number specifying waterproofing and the second breathability. For example, the Black Diamond Fineline Stretch can be described as 10K/10K.
However, we don’t rely too heavily on these ratings, as several confounding factors exist. The outdoor industry has yet to adopt a universal standard for measuring waterproofing or breathability. Second, a jacket’s durable water-repellent (DWR) finish has a notable impact on waterproofing, but it can wear off over time and requires regular maintenance. And finally, a tube of water applied to a small piece of fabric in a lab does little to simulate actual rainfall (or, in the case of breathability, a lab test doesn’t account for factors such as layering systems, body composition, outside temperature, pit zip venting, etc.). In general, we’ll look at these numbers as a reference, but we prefer to focus more of our attention on the actual materials being used.
“Heavy is the crown,” and people are always wondering whether the top dogs are, in fact, worth it. In this case, the simple answer is: yes. Gore-Tex has been around since Woodstock and the glorious year of 1969, and it remains an industry leader today (that’s nearly six decades for those counting). There are many types of Gore-Tex, including standard Gore-Tex, Gore-Tex Pro, and Gore-Tex Windstopper, all of which are standouts in their own right. Nailing the impossible equation of waterproofing and breathability is never easy, but at both ends of the spectrum, Gore-Tex products consistently outperform the competition.
Certain in-house technologies, such as Patagonia’s H2No and Black Diamond’s BD.dry, are legitimate competitors to Gore-Tex and do a good job of keeping you dry and protected from the elements. But it says a lot that Arc’teryx—which has led the market in premium shell jackets for as long as we can remember—and the high-end Norwegian brand Norrona, both almost exclusively depend on third-party Gore-Tex for their membranes. In the end, it’s worth the hype and you know what you are getting, which offers peace of mind for gear you may depend on in the backcountry.
The rain jacket category has a huge price spread. At the budget end of the spectrum, the REI Co-op Trailmade is a solid option for just $70, while a hardshell jacket like the Arc’teryx Beta SL comes in at a whopping $500.
The answer should ultimately depend on your intended uses and the frequency of use. Cheaper rain jackets tend to be made with 2-layer membranes and offer less waterproofing and a higher degree of clamminess. They can do the job just fine for casual use and to have in your pack if a quick storm rolls through (living in Colorado, this writer doesn’t use his rain jacket very often at all). On the other hand, pricier rain jackets are made with higher-end 2.5-layer or 3-layer builds, typically feature Gore-Tex waterproofing (see the question above for our take on that), and are much more breathable and protective overall. For serious jaunts into the backcountry, windy and rainy places like Patagonia, or if you live somewhere like the Pacific Northwest where precipitation is a constant, your rain jacket is a critical piece of gear and the extra cost can be well worth it.
Between these two extremes lie some of our favorite rain jackets. If you’re looking for an everyday rain jacket but don’t want to go too cheap, we’d strongly recommend 3-layer jackets like the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L ($189) and the Mountain Hardwear Threshold ($180). Not only are these jackets decently priced, but they also feature durable, 3-layer construction that will hold up a lot longer than 2.5-layer jackets (like the Black Diamond Fineline or Cotopaxi Cielo). Sure, they’re not the lightest or most breathable options, but we think they’re all most folks need for running errands around town and the occasional rainy trip to the backcountry.
According to the question above, the breathability of rain jackets can vary significantly. Cheaper rain jackets often feature 2-layer builds with in-house waterproofing, which can help keep the wet away, but realistically offers far less breathability than more expensive Gore-Tex models. The truth is that many people throw their rain jacket on in a pinch and aren’t moving their bodies significantly in it. However, if you plan to wear your rain jacket during aerobic activities (such as hiking, backpacking, trail running, or climbing) or for extended periods, we recommend a rain jacket designed explicitly for that purpose. The good news is that right above the products in this gear guide, we have a handy “Sort by: Breathability” tool that will re-sort all of the products for you based on your wants. In this case, the Montbell Versatile is at the top of the heap, earning a 4.5 out of 5 breathability rating, and there are several solid options available below it.
We always appreciate this question. To answer it, our sustainability team exhaustively researched the category and identified ten total criteria at the product and brand levels. Leading the pack is the REI Co-op Rainier, which scores an impressive 4.7 out of 5 with its only demerits being from REI's lack of repair or recycling services (for more, read our Rainier Sustainability Report). Patagonia's Torrentshell 3L, Granite Crest, Boulder Fork, and M10 Storm are close behind with scores of 4.5 out of 5. It’s worth noting that outdoor apparel has received a lot of initial attention in the sustainability realm, and rain jackets in particular, so you have several good options to choose from. For a comprehensive breakdown, see our article on the most sustainable rain jackets, which includes links to each jacket's sustainability report.
The lines between rain jackets and hardshells are more blurred than ever. In the past, we only saw 2- and 2.5-layer designs in the rain jacket category, which made it easy to differentiate them from hardshells (which always use 3-layer construction). Nowadays, there are more 3-layer rain jackets than ever, including several of our picks above (the Patagonia Granite Crest and Arc'teryx Beta SL being two examples).
So now that a jacket’s construction isn’t the main differentiating factor, how do we distinguish between a rain jacket and a hardshell?
In general, hardshells are built for long-term protection in extreme weather (think heavy rain, wind, and snow), and thus feature stiffer, thicker face fabrics that offer more of a buffer from the elements—unlike many rain jackets, you won’t feel the impact of each driving raindrop. Hardshells are by definition performance-oriented, too, meaning that most will feature hipbelt-compatible pockets and helmet-compatible hoods. And because they’re built for winter use, many are roomy enough to fit over an insulated midlayer. Given their confidence-inspiring construction, hardshells are what we turn to for no-holds-barred protection while hiking, backcountry skiing, alpine climbing, and mountaineering. Unsurprisingly, they tend to be significantly more expensive than rain jackets.
On the other hand, rain jackets prioritize a lightweight and packable design, built for less demanding conditions—such as summer backpacking, day hiking, and urban use. Their face fabrics are supple and flexible, and they can be easily packed away. Given this intent, rain jackets are generally not as durable as hardshells, and many will wet out after sustained exposure to moisture. Hiking and performance-oriented rain jackets are also very trim-fitting and not designed to be worn over thick midlayers, limiting their use to mild conditions.
Yes—if you want your rain jacket to continue to repel moisture long into its life, you’ll need to maintain its durable water-repellent (DWR) finish. Nikwax products make this easy—you can choose from spray-on (Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On) and/or wash-in (Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In) treatments. Although the wash-in treatment is easier (simply throw your jacket into the washing machine and voilà!), Nikwax recommends the spray-on method for jackets with breathable, wicking liners (which includes all the rain jackets here). This makes a lot of sense: You don’t want to apply a water-resistant finish to the inside of your jacket if you want it to continue wicking moisture from your skin.
However, before applying a DWR finish, we recommend washing your rain jacket. Much of the time, a jacket’s DWR can be revived by cleaning it of contaminants like dirt, smoke, and oils. A simple laundry detergent can do the trick (make sure to run your jacket through a few rinse cycles to clean it thoroughly), or if you’re feeling fancy, you can opt for Nikwax’s Tech Wash. Then, follow the manufacturer instructions for drying. For more information on this topic, check out Patagonia’s guide to How to Wash Your Waterproof Jacket.
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