We buy all the products we test — no freebies from companies. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission, which helps support our testing.
We've tested 35 of the top rain jackets from Arc'teryx, Patagonia, Black Diamond, Marmot, Columbia, Outdoor Research, and more to find the best gear to keep you dry.
A sampling of the rain jackets we've tested over the years.
Credit: Maggie Brandenburg
By Zach Lovell ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated May 28, 2025
Whether your forecast calls for a soggy commute, a rainy day weekend adventure, or there's a chance of a surprise sprinkle while off in the backcountry, we understand it's difficult to be comfortable and have fun when you don't have the right gear. A great outer layer can make all the difference in ensuring a good day, so we've made it our job to find the best ones.
Over the last 14 years, we've put more than 120 of the best rain jackets through rigorous testing, evaluating each for waterproofness, comfort, breathability, durability, and more to determine which ones are worth their weight and which will leave you wet. We engage in hours of in-lab testing and outdoor rainy day play, all to gather the details and answers you need to find the best option for your climate and activity.
Our results were unanimous among male and female testers: the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L rises to the top of the list as our favorite all-arounder. Sold in men's and women's versions, this highly functional design balances superior water protection with excellent performance across all other metrics and sells at a very reasonable price.
Yet, if you ask our test team which one they would reach for if the budget were no obstacle, everyone agreed; the Arc'teryx Beta SL (in men's or women's) is THE rain jacket of choice when you want the best of the best and are willing to pay for it, a premium shell that outpaced all other rain jackets in every test we threw at it and set the bar high for peak performance and quality.
Who it is best for: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is best suited for budget-conscious adventurers who still demand serious weather protection. It's a standout option for hikers, commuters, and travelers who expect to face everything from downpours to light snow but don't want to spend premium prices for performance. This jacket offers a reliable level of waterproofing and rugged durability, making it a practical choice for those who value value, without cutting too many corners.
Why we love it: The Torrentshell 3L punches far above its weight in performance. “I had to triple-check the price tag on the Torrentshell since it competed with jackets twice as expensive,” our lead reviewer shared. Its construction uses Patagonia's proprietary 3-layer H2No fabric, offering strong water resistance and wind protection that performed well in field tests ranging from sideways rain to mountain snowfall. Another tester noted, “This highly functional design makes it easy to keep the elements out of the sleeve, hem, and hood areas when the weather gets nasty—it seals up better than some jackets I've paid twice as much for.” Smart features like adjustable cuffs, a helmet-compatible hood, and pit zips contribute to its high overall usability, even if it isn't the softest or lightest jacket in the lineup.
Should you buy it? This is a strong contender if you want high-end weather protection without the high-end price. It's not the most breathable option, but it delivers impressive waterproofing and durability for the cost. It may feel slightly stiffer and less refined compared to premium models, but the value here is undeniable. For stormy hikes, travel days, and unpredictable forecasts, the Torrentshell is one of the most dependable jackets in its price class and an easy recommendation for most users.
Who it is best for: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is best for women who need a reliable, affordable rain jacket that excels in real-world wet-weather conditions. It's especially well-suited for hikers, travelers, and anyone who expects to get caught in a downpour but doesn't want to drop top-dollar on more premium shells. This jacket is ideal for those who prioritize water protection and value over ultralight performance or flashy features. It's also a smart pick for environmentally conscious buyers, thanks to its PFC-free DWR finish and recycled fabric.
Why we love it:
The Torrentshell has earned a permanent spot in our gear rotation. “It's a high-performing workhorse that will keep you dry no matter the conditions,” said one longtime tester, who added, “I've had it out in multi-day storms, and it showed no signs of weakness during our testing period or beyond.” Built with Patagonia's rugged 3-layer 50D H2No Performance ECONYL fabric, it delivers top-tier waterproofing in a thoughtfully updated package. Recent design upgrades include a larger stuff pocket and a PFC-free DWR finish, which both add utility and sustainability. The Torrentshell keeps things simple and effective—qualities our testers deeply appreciated.
Should you buy it? Yes—if water resistance, durability, and value are your priorities. The Torrentshell may feel slightly stiff and crinkly compared to softer shells, but as lead tester Trish Matheny put it: “I would much rather sacrifice some flexibility in the textile than risk getting soaked while moving through the backcountry.” Though the storm-flap-over-zipper system isn't as confidence-inspiring as fully sealed zippers, it still held up well to heavy weather in our testing. The Torrentshell hits a near-perfect balance for most users—outstanding water resistance, fair breathability, and a price tag that doesn't sting.
The Torrentshell 3L has no problem handling heavier downpours and intense storms, making it one of our first choices for multi-day trips and backcountry missions.
Who it is best for: The Arc'teryx Beta SL is best suited for outdoor professionals and serious enthusiasts who demand elite-level waterproofing, durability, and performance, regardless of the cost. It's especially popular among guides, avalanche safety workers, and mountain athletes who rely on dependable gear in extreme environments. If you're someone who regularly faces high-altitude storms, shifting alpine weather, or backcountry missions that require both minimal weight and maximum protection, the Beta SL is likely the most dependable choice available. Those who want year-round functionality from one outer shell will also benefit—just size up to accommodate base and mid-layers in winter.
Why we love it: Simply put, this jacket represents the cutting edge of weatherproof gear. “This is a high-end option that effortlessly transitions between being my winter skiing shell and my summer rain layer,” said lead gear expert Zach Lovell, who emphasized its versatility across seasons and environments. With its advanced 3-layer Gore-Tex build and the use of Arc'teryx's new thinner ePE (expanded polyethylene) membrane, the Beta SL not only boosts breathability and packability but also lowers the jacket's environmental impact. The design allows for a stronger face fabric without adding weight, so you get extended durability and storm protection in a featherlight form. These are the kinds of thoughtful innovations that keep Arc'teryx gear at the top of the industry.
Should you buy it? If you're chasing peak performance and don't mind the price, the Beta SL is a justifiable investment. It's the most expensive jacket in our test, and that's its biggest drawback. But if you're someone who lives in your rain shell—whether you're ski touring in the winter or navigating technical trails in a summer downpour—few jackets come close in terms of capability and comfort. For professionals or dedicated users who view gear as a tool, not just a garment, the Beta SL remains the gold standard.
Updated Beta Versions
This Beta SL jacket was formerly called the Beta LT. This model is the latest update in the Beta line from Arc'teryx.
Who it is best for: The Arc'teryx Beta SL is ideal for serious outdoor adventurers, guides, and anyone facing prolonged exposure to the elements who is willing to invest in best-in-class weather protection. Its high price tag is justified by elite performance, making it a top pick for those with flexible budgets or very specific gear demands—particularly in remote or storm-prone environments. With RECCO rescue technology integrated, it's especially well-suited for alpine or backcountry users who may encounter emergencies far from help.
Why we love it: Our team unanimously praised the Beta SL for its unbeatable protection in extreme wind and downpour conditions. Jessica Albery, who led testing during high-altitude storms and tropical downpours, shared, “This garment separates itself from the pack with an exceptionally well-thought-out design that allows you to withstand the weather longer and extend your adventures. It's clear this was built for people who push their time outside to the limit.” The jacket's 3L N40p Gore-Tex construction, tailored fit with gusseted underarms, and drop hem add up to an ergonomic, storm-ready design that still provides solid mobility despite its more rigid shell. Added safety features like RECCO tech round out the package, showing how Arc'teryx designs for real-world, high-stakes use.
Should you buy it? If you're after the absolute best weather protection and don't mind the premium price, the Beta SL is the top-tier choice—it delivers where it counts. At 10.6 oz, it isn't the lightest, but it outperforms nearly everything else in terms of waterproofing, durability, and overall design. The lack of a stuff pocket is a rare miss for a jacket of this caliber, especially when more affordable options like the Black Diamond Fineline Stretch include that convenience. Still, if staying dry in wild weather is your top concern, and cost is a secondary factor, this is the jacket that will keep you covered longer than any other we tested. As our expert panel put it, “When an epic rainstorm rolls in, this is the jacket that will keep you dry for the longest no matter how wild the weather gets.”
Who it is best for: The Helly Hansen Loke is best suited for casual hikers, commuters, and front-country adventurers who want an affordable, stylish, and packable layer for light to moderate wet weather. It's ideal for people who want solid performance without investing in high-end gear and who primarily encounter drizzles or short-lived storms rather than extended backcountry deluges. This jacket excels as a “just-in-case” shell—great for stashing in a daypack or travel bag.
Why we love it: We appreciated the Loke for its excellent portability and comfort in mild conditions. One tester summed it up well: “I hardly noticed when its 8.4 ounces were tucked away into its own pocket and stashed inside my pack,” making it a standout for weight-conscious users. It's one of the more breathable jackets in this price range, thanks to mesh-lined pockets, pit zips, and a Helly Tech 2.5-layer build. Tester Ben Applebaum-Bauch noted, “The style and cut of the fabric make this jacket practical for front-country use because it remains highly functional while still looking good,” reinforcing the Loke's balance of performance and everyday appeal. While the water resistance isn't bombproof, it's perfectly serviceable for the type of weather most users face.
Should you buy it? If your primary goal is to stay dry in light rain without shelling out top dollar, the Helly Hansen Loke is an excellent option. It's not built for prolonged storms—zipper flaps and less durable mesh pockets limit its performance—but it's comfortable, breathable, and looks great. Ben summed it up best: “You get way more than you pay for with the Loke.” For more serious adventures, we'd point you toward burlier budget picks. But the Loke punches well above its weight for urban outings, weekend hikes, or throwing in your travel bag.
Who it is best for: The Marmot PreCip Eco is a smart pick for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable rain protection for everyday use, travel, or weekend hiking in moderate conditions. Its lightweight construction, recycled materials, and easy packability make it especially appealing for eco-minded adventurers or those looking for a no-fuss jacket that performs well without breaking the bank.
Why we love it: The PreCip Eco delivers thoughtful details and solid performance at an affordable price. It offers surprising utility with features like dual storm flaps, fully taped seams, a roll-away hood, and a breathable design that includes rare perforated pockets. Reviewer Jessica Albery praised the comfort-oriented design: “The internal lining of the collar is soft and feels luxurious against my skin, which is something I didn't expect from a jacket in this price range.” We also appreciated that it weighs just 9.2 ounces and can be conveniently stuffed into its own pocket. For those prioritizing breathability, it's one of the most accessible jackets that doesn't sacrifice airflow for affordability.
Should you buy it? You should consider the PreCip Eco if you're looking for a lightweight and environmentally friendly jacket with solid performance in light to moderate rain. It's not built for all-day storms—Jessica Albery notes, "The PreCip Eco is proficient at repelling moderate water for a decent amount of time, but won't be the right jacket for long days in heavy rain"—but it still offers great value for shorter outings. We'd steer you toward the more protective models if you anticipate heavier or more prolonged wet weather. Still, for hikers on a budget who want function and sustainability, the PreCip Eco remains a strong contender.
Who it is best for: The Columbia Watertight II is best suited for casual users and budget-conscious shoppers who need an affordable layer for light rain and everyday tasks. Whether you're walking the dog, commuting, or taking on short hikes in mild conditions, this jacket delivers adequate protection without added weight or bulk. It's not aimed at hardcore outdoor adventurers, but for those prioritizing cost over high-end performance, it fits the bill perfectly.
Why we love it: Despite its modest price, the Watertight II includes thoughtful features like an adjustable hood and hem, which help seal out the elements. It uses a 2-layer Omni-Tech waterproof membrane with a mesh liner that adds a touch of comfort. Lead tester Zach Lovell summed it up well: “If you're not logging big days in the rain or heading into serious weather, this bargain-priced layer might be all you really need to stay dry around town or on mellow trails. It's functional, simple, and affordable—what more do you need for casual use?” We also appreciated its compact design, making it easy to stuff into a bag or keep on hand for surprise showers.
Should you buy it? Buy the Watertight II if you're looking for a reliable, low-cost rain jacket for light use. However, it's worth upgrading if you anticipate needing better breathability or more robust weather protection.
Who it is best for: The Helly Hansen Moss - Women's is ideal for style-conscious users who want reliable rain protection for everyday wear, city life, and outdoor chores. With a mid-thigh hemline, oversized hood, and relaxed fit, this jacket offers generous coverage and layering flexibility—perfect for errands, commuting, or tending to tasks during heavy rain or snow. It's not built for the backcountry, but for everyday wet-weather use, it's a standout.
Why we love it: What makes the Moss shine is its combination of fashion-forward design and practical functionality—all at a very accessible price. Its 100% polyurethane shell repels rain with ease, aided by a storm flap-covered zipper, pocket covers, and a smartly designed rear yoke vent. Lead tester Trish Matheny shared, “It hits mid-thigh on me, and that extra coverage kept me dry during a sleety storm while layering underneath for warmth. I wore it for everything from dog walks to stacking firewood.” The jacket also features fully taped seams and a substantial build that boosts its durability for frequent, long-term use.
Should you buy it?If you're prioritizing daily weather protection and aesthetics over breathability or packability, the Moss is a great investment. That said, its 24.3-ounce weight and lack of vents or waterproof pockets make it less appealing for technical or high-output activities. Still, for wet days around town, this jacket's long-lasting build, affordable price, and flattering cut make it an everyday favorite among our testers.
The HH Moss was our favorite for everyday chores and urban commutes thanks to a water resistant 100% Polyurethane construction, ample hood coverage, and longer, flattering hemline.
Who it is best for: The Black Diamond Fineline Stretch Shell is a great match for fast-moving hikers, trail runners, and climbers looking for lightweight weather protection that doesn't compromise on mobility. At just 9.4 ounces, it's one of the lightest fully featured shells we tested, making it ideal for multi-day adventures where every ounce matters, so long as the forecast doesn't include heavy, sustained rain.
Why we love it: The Fineline Stretch Shell manages to strike a rare balance between weight, comfort, and protection. Its 2.5-layer BD.dry construction and mechanical stretch fabric offer solid water resistance and impressive freedom of movement—something our testers appreciated on scrambles and technical terrain. As one tester put it, “This jacket gives you the confidence to move fast and stay light without feeling vulnerable in light to moderate storms.” It also includes an adjustable hood, a chest pocket, and a stuff sack, all in a minimalist design that still feels practical.
Should you buy it? The Fineline is a standout option if you're after a do-it-all ultralight rain jacket. That said, if you're headed into storm-prone terrain or expect hours of rain, we recommend burlier options. Ultimately, the Fineline is one of the best lightweight shells for users who want performance without bulk—and don't plan to wait out a monsoon.
Weight: 8.6 oz | Material: BD.dry 2.5L waterproof/breathable technology
REASONS TO BUY
Better breathability
Stretch fabric enhances mobility
Very lightweight
Helmet-compatible hood
Waterproof YKK AquaGuard front zipper
REASONS TO AVOID
Super light design limits durability
Limited water resistance
Who it is best for: The Black Diamond Fineline Stretch - Women's is an outstanding choice for active mountain users who prioritize packability, stretch, and protection during fast-paced alpine missions. It's ideal for climbers, mountaineers, or serious hikers looking for a rain shell that can keep up with high-output days and unpredictable mountain weather.
Why we love it: At just 8.6 ounces, the Fineline Stretch delivers impressive weather protection without sacrificing flexibility. Its BD.dry 2.5L membrane kept our testers dry in moderate to heavy rain while remaining more breathable than many other jackets in its class. The stretchy fabric allows for a full range of motion—a must when you're reaching for holds or moving fast on a ridgeline. Our testers also appreciated the helmet-compatible hood, watertight YKK AquaGuard zippers, and the fact that it packs into its own pocket and clips easily to a harness. As one tester noted, “This is the jacket I'd clip to my harness on any mission that might see showers—it layers well, moves with me, and disappears into my pack when I don't need it.”
Should you buy it? The Fineline Stretch is a top contender if you want a lightweight, high-performance jacket with alpine-ready features. If you're looking for a jacket for rainy dog walks or running between the car and the store, there are more town-focused jackets that would suffice. The Fineline Stretch is the ultralight shell to get if your priority is moving fast and light in the mountains, with gear that keeps pace.
Who it's best for: The Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic is perfect for active outdoor enthusiasts who want a highly breathable, stretchy rain jacket that performs well across a variety of pursuits—from climbing and hiking to skiing. It's ideal for those who prioritize mobility and comfort on the move, especially during lighter precipitation or variable weather.
Why we love it: The Stretch Ozonic blurs the line between rain shell and softshell, thanks to its stretchy 2.5-layer Dry.Q 50D ripstop fabric made from 100% recycled polyester. Weighing just 9.6 ounces, it's highly packable and surprisingly comfortable, feeling more like a technical softshell during uphill efforts. Our lead tester noted, “It felt like a softshell while climbing but switched gears to offer solid rain protection when storms rolled in.” Its stretch and breathability are standout features, making it easy to move freely without overheating. The Ozonic offers superior fabric technology and sustainability credentials compared to the similarly lightweight Helly Hansen Loke. One minor drawback: the zippers occasionally snag, which can be frustrating in the field.
Should you buy it? The Stretch Ozonic is an excellent choice for those needing a versatile, breathable rain jacket that doubles as a movement-friendly layer. If zipper smoothness is a priority, the Outdoor Research Stratoburst Stretch provides similar stretch benefits with better zipper performance. Overall, the Ozonic shines for adventurers who want lightweight, breathable protection that won't restrict movement.
Who it is best for: The Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic is an excellent choice for active outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize breathability and mobility over maximum weather protection. It's ideal for those with longer torsos or arms thanks to its adjustable fit and stretchy fabric that moves with you. The Ozonic fits the bill if you engage in high-output activities like climbing or skiing and want a lightweight, versatile rain shell that won't restrict your movement.
Why we love it: This jacket redefines the rain shell with a thin, super soft, and unbelievably comfortable design. Jessica Albery, a lead tester, said, “It feels light as a feather and is quiet as a mouse — I was genuinely surprised by how easily it moved with me, no matter what I was doing, whether scrambling uphill or reaching out to grab gear. It offers outstanding protection while never feeling cumbersome or restrictive.” The Ozonic's stretchy, breathable material includes large pit vents that effectively dump heat, and its large-toothed zipper is easy to operate even with gloves on. Plus, it stuffs into its own pocket for effortless portability. This flexibility and comfort make it a favorite for a variety of outdoor sports.
Should you buy it? While the Stretch Ozonic excels in comfort and versatility, it isn't designed for prolonged heavy rain or wind. Any wind beyond a light breeze penetrated the fabric, and water dampened our underlayers during extended or heavy showers. If you need maximum water resistance and wind protection, consider other models. That said, this jacket was a tester favorite for those who value breathable protection during high-exertion activities and lighter rain. One tester remarked, “I regularly found myself reaching for this jacket when I knew I would be breaking a sweat but still wanted reliable protection from the elements — it was like having a breathable shield that moved with me, never holding me back or overheating.”
If breathability and mobility are what you're after, the Stretch Ozonic is hard to beat.
Credit: The GearLab Team
How We Tested
GearLab's test teams have purchased over 100 rain jackets over the last 14 years, covering women's and men's products. Our expert testers use them extensively in the field and in-home “lab” settings, testing each jacket in various activities and climates for hundreds of hours.
We are constantly on the lookout for new and compelling rain jackets to test. All products in our review have been purchased from retailers just like you might do, all to ensure an unbiased testing process from start to finish with final results you can trust. Our recent update includes the best jackets you can buy today, which we subjected to more than 350 field hours of hiking, biking, camping, mountaineering, and more to assess breathability, mobility, water resistance, etc. Testers kept detailed notes and observations about performance across metrics and chose award winners after much consideration and hours of use. We tested women's jackets and men's ranging from ultra-lightweight to three-layered jackets for colder climates.
Rain jackets were tested across 5 performance metrics:
Water Resistance
Breathability
Comfort and Mobility
Weight
Construction Quality
Although the Helly Hansen Moss was the heaviest Women's rain jacket that we tested, it packs quite easily when rolled tightly and stuffed into its own hood.
Putting the Arc'teryx Beta LT jacket through its paces during a downpour in Hawaii to test its capabilities.
The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L provided an excellent barrier to the elements thanks to a functional and protective 3 layer H2No fabric and DWR finish.
Our testing team looks for every opportunity to test each jacket based on a variety of testing metrics to determine the jackets that supply the best performance.
Why Trust GearLab
Our testing teams are composed of wet weather experts who appreciate the details of rain jacket performance. We have separate teams for each gender to ensure we can properly evaluate fit and performance on designs that are tailored in a gender-specific manner. Our women's rain jacket review lead is Trish Matheny , an outdoor enthusiast who is deeply familiar with wet weather conditions, having spent over a decade living in the Tetons, getting rained off the high ridgelines of the Cascades, and surviving several atmospheric rivers in the High Sierra. As a Yosemite Search and Rescue Team member, she also has plenty of opportunities to test gear and spends most of her time living and playing outside in Yosemite National Park. Another important voice in our analysis has been tester Jessica Albery. She has worked outdoors in the rain in many places, including Oregon, New Zealand, and Australia, and now calls Truckee, California home. Several atmospheric river storms have hit in recent years, bringing extreme precipitation and flooding, and excellent opportunities for testing. Jessica believes the right gear can help people stay safe and dry outdoors, and her journalism degree has taught her the importance of conducting objective and unbiased research. She now applies this combination of skills and experience to testing rain jackets.
Our gear testers are detail-oriented outdoorsfolk.
Rain or shine, Trish took every opportunity to evaluate the performance of each rain jacket.
A rainy day in the PNW? The Odin has us covered.
Our testers spend hours testing each jacket side by side to objectively evaluate each design based on water resistance, breathability, comfort and mobility, weight, and overall construction quality.
Zach Lovell, Ian Nicholson and Ben Applebaum-Bauch are our men's rain jacket testing leads, and have impressive rain jacket testing resumes. Zach is an IFMGA Mountain Guide with over 15 years of experience guiding climbs and ski tours across the globe. Ian is also an international (IFMGA) Mountain Guide with over 2,000 days of experience guiding in the Andes, the European Alps, and the Pacific Northwest. He has worn a rain jacket for over 800 days in the last 20 years and has helped over 1,000 clients choose gear for outdoor adventures. Ben is a guide and avid thru-hiker with a decade of experience in windy northern New England. He has tested rain jackets in various conditions, from torrential downpours to blizzards. Ian and Ben have the expertise and experience to test and evaluate men's rain jackets in the most demanding conditions. They are committed to finding the best rain jackets for our readers, so you can be sure you are getting a high-quality product that will keep you dry and comfortable in any weather.
How to Pick the Best Rain Jacket for You
Regarding rain jackets, there is more to consider than finding something to keep you dry. Before making your final selection, consider waterproofing level, layers, size (weight), and the climate and activity you plan to use it for. For many, this can mean multiple activities and climates that could necessitate purchasing multiple jackets or making concessions in what you want to meet the varying needs of each activity or area with a single product.
All rain jackets intend to protect you from the elements, but different models vary in their features, waterproof level, and intended activities.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Most rain jackets feature a cut to fit the average male or female body. Most people purchase a jacket designed for and marketed to their gender. However, we suggest trying on one from either group and choosing the one that works best for you. Besides differences in cut, we sometimes see differences in functional details like pocket sizes and locations between the two versions.
Men's Rain Jackets
We provide comprehensive and detailed testing of rain jackets for men. The chart below summarizes our overall performance scores of the best men's rain jackets available today:
Women's Rain Jackets
GearLab's expert female testing team put all of women's rain jackets through a gauntlet of tests to assess the performance of each, as shown in the chart below.
Care and Cleaning
Every jacket will require care and maintenance, no matter what company or style you choose. If you ignore your jacket and fail to clean it or reapply water-repellent coatings, it will eventually fail you in the field, leaving you wet when you don't want to be. Each jacket comes with its own care and cleaning guide, and we recommend following these recommendations and tips to the letter to keep your gear in top condition. After spending over a hundred dollars or more, it is a small price to pay to keep the outdoor wet weather fun going.
Pit vents definitely help increase airflow within the jacket, especially on the stiffer and more rigid constructions.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Waterproof or Water Resistant?
The goal of any great rain jacket is to keep you dry. However, the degree to which it meets this goal and the products it uses to meet them vary from jacket to jacket. Some jackets withstand the worst storms, while others are meant more for the occasional light rain in warmer weather. Finding the right option to meet your needs can save you money if it helps you avoid getting “more” jackets than you need or if it means finding the right jacket on the first purchase so you don't need to purchase more than one.
We submit each jacket to rigorous testing in real rain and simulated high-pressure shower scenarios.
Credit: Ben Applebaum-Bauch
Some products use waterproof and breathable materials, while others rely on surface treatment with more water-resistant fabrics. Knowing each garment's waterproofing elements and properties can help you find the one right for your goals and needs.
All jackets tested offered decent water resistance. Dig into the review to see which ones gave the best protection.
Credit: Katy Scott
Waterproof Materials
ePTFE Fabrics: Materials like Gore-Tex (the oldest) are stretched membranes with a specific dimension designed to escape water vapor but prevent liquid from entering. This sweet spot results from the pore size (20,000 smaller than a water drop) and the low surface tension (preventing liquid water absorption without significant pressure).
Polyester, Polyurethane, or PU Films: PU is a laminate waterproof layer between the outer and inside material. An ePTFE layer often joins the mix. Why? The PU layer will be exceptionally thin when laminated to an ePTFE layer. The ePTFE must be thicker with the PU laminate to reach the desired waterproofness. Products that use PU tend to be lighter. They also tend to be more stretchy than those that use only ePTFE fabric.
Coated Fabrics: Coated fabrics are typically used in budget-friendly jackets and are usually less breathable with lower durability over time. A coated, waterproof, and breathable material slips between the outer fabric and interior layer. Coated fabrics have an advantage: they combine well with stretchier materials, offering a superior range of motion.
Durable Water Repellent
Durable Water Repellent (DWR) is a chemical applied to the outer shell. Its job is to resist and bead water on the surface to prevent the fabric from becoming saturated. Saturation is the bane of breathability and can create a feeling of dampness. Waterproof fabrics use some DWR; it is also somewhat common in water-resistant textiles.
Patagonia's H2No fabric along with DWR finish effectively bead water on the outside of the rain jacket.
Credit: Ben Applebaum-Bauch
Considering the Layers
You might not have noticed the layer inside a rain jacket. There is a good reason for this. Unlike other jackets, they are not separate layers; you cannot remove a layer if needed. These sandwiched layers, often laminated, cannot be “seen.”
2 Layers
Two-layer options are the simplest rain jackets you can buy. This type includes an outer fabric layer treated with a water-repellent (most likely DWR) and an inner waterproof membrane like Gore-Tex for waterproofing and breathability. This design can have problems and the waterproof layer typically isn't super skin-friendly.
2.5 Layers
Two-point five (2.5) layers include the two already mentioned and an added half layer. Wait… what the heck is a half-layer?? The half-layer is a lightly sprayed or painted-on protective coating on the inner membrane. It isn't an actual layer of fabric but creates another layer, thus, the .5/half layer status. These designs tend to be less expensive but are also less durable.
3 Layers
Three layers are a 2-layer jacket with a liner fused inside (some are textured). The third layer protects the breathable membrane from body oils and grime. They require less laundering to keep them breathable. The third layer lowers overall breathability, making the design more suitable for colder climates. Three-layer jackets offer the best rain protection, but the triple-layer means it is thicker and stiffer. However, 3-layer jackets offer the best, most consistent protection and performance in the worst storm conditions.
It's likely you'll see a more robust liner fabric on a 3 layer jacket, which can improve durability, breathability, and water resistance.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Use and Climate
Choosing the right rain jacket for your needs depends on your budget, activity plans, and the climate you'll be playing in. These factors can influence the number of layers you look for and the jacket's waterproofing. The colder the climate, the more layers you will likely need. The more heated the activity, the more you might consider pit vents. The more activities, the more versatility you'll need. Paying attention to features (does the hood fit a helmet?) and the metrics that matter the most for your goals will give you the details you need to find the right jacket to meet your goals.
Venting
Venting will be more or less important to you depending on your activity, exertion level, and ambient air temperature or humidity. While any jacket can use its main front zipper to dump the build-up of internal body heat, some offer additional “pit vent” zippers to better regulate the release of excess heat without creating a cold or clammy feel. If you plan to exert yourself through activities like mountaineering or hiking and your wet weather climate will be relatively warm, then pit vents will feel more like a must-have. If your needs lean more toward camp sitting in colder climates, then vents might not be mandatory. Alternatively, some folks feel it's better to have them and not need them than to be without. If you plan to indulge in multiple outdoor adventures or your climate will vary, a lack of pit vents could be a dealbreaker.
We highly recommend following the specific manufacturer instructions for your rain jacket so as to maintain the performance throughout the life of the design.
Credit: Trish Matheny
Hoods
In a rainstorm, a hood is a must-have. Hoods have different designs and features, and should be considered as they apply to your chosen activity. If you need to wear a helmet for your outdoor fun, a hood that is large enough for a helmet is necessary. Also, note if the hood has some adjustability and a brim to protect your eyes and face while maintaining your peripheral vision. No one hood is perfect for everyone, but some hood designs are better and more versatile than others.
Hoods can be an important consideration for your next rain jacket, some designs are spacious enough to also provide water resistance over a helmet while others feature minimalist brims that sit close to the head.
Credit: Ben Applebaum-Bauch
Conclusion
A rain jacket has one of the most important jobs our gear can have: keeping us outside playing, no matter what. We've done the hard part for you — now you just need to decide which jacket is the right fit for you and your wallet. We've spent years testing the latest and greatest rain jackets, and we're stoked to see you out there, whether in the mountains, on the ocean, on the trail, or at the coffee shop.
—Zach Lovell, Jessica Albery, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, and Ian Nicholson
