 This Product
REI Co-op XeroCloud 3L - Women's | |||||
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| Awards |  Best Overall Rain Jacket |  Best for Ultralight Adventures |  Best Value for Active Use | Best Full Coverage Raincoat | |
| Price | $189 List Check REI (on sale!) | $189 List Check REI (on sale!) | $189 List Check REI (on sale!) | $100 List Check REI (on sale!) | $130 List Check Price at Backcountry |
Overall Score  |
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| Star Rating | |||||
| Bottom Line | This breathable and stretchy design may be better suited for light rainfall rather than sustained and heavy downpours, as the DWR treatment is limited in water resistance | A fantastic rain jacket offering exceptional performance in the wettest conditions and designed to last for the long haul | This more affordable rain jacket features generous sizing that's easy to layer, as well as a decent amount of stretch for optimal range of motion during fast-paced outdoor pursuits | A simple and affordable 2.5-layer water-resistant shell with pit vents and an inclusive size range | This retro-style raincoat is perfect for everyday use thanks to the water-resistant performance combined with a functional hood and additional coverage |
| Rating Categories | REI Co-op XeroCloud 3L | Patagonia Torrentshe... | Black Diamond Fineli... | REI Co-op Rainier | Helly Hansen Moss |
| Water Resistance (45%) | |||||
| Breathability (20%) | |||||
| Comfort and Mobility (15%) | |||||
| Weight (10%) | |||||
| Construction Quality (10%) | |||||
| Specifications | REI Co-op XeroCloud 3L | Patagonia Torrentshe... | Black Diamond Fineli... | REI Co-op Rainier | Helly Hansen Moss |
| Number of Fabric Layers | 3 | 3 | 2.5 | 2.5 | 1 |
| Material and Waterproof Membrane | 72% recycled nylon/28% recycled polyester (bluesign approved) with jersey backer; 3-layer HydroWall waterproof | 3-layer 50D H2No Performance Standard ECONYL with a PFC-free DWR finish | BD.dry 2.5L waterproof/breathable technology | 2.5-layer HydroWall with non-PFC DWR finish | 100% polyurethane |
| Measured Weight (Size Small) | 11.5 oz | 11.8 oz | 8.6 oz | 10.2 oz | 24.3 oz |
| Pockets | 2 zippered hand, 1 chest | 2 zippered hand | 2 zippered hand | 2 zippered hand, 2 interior drop-in | 2 hand with button closure |
| Pit Zips | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Pit Zip Length | 11 in | 11 in | 11 in | 10 in | N/A |
| Stows into Pocket | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Carabiner Loop in Stow Pocket | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Helmet Compatible Hood | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| Hipbelt Friendly Hand Pockets | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Additional Features | Fully seam sealed, adjustable hood, adjustable velcro wrist cuffs, adjustable drawcord hem, zippered pockets | Dual adjustable and stowable hood, microfleece-lined neck, external and internal zipper storm flaps, chin zipper guard, adjustable Velcro cuffs, drawcord hem, carabiner clip-in loop | Adjustable cuffs and hem, Waterproof YKK AquaGuard center-front zipper, stretch fabric for increased mobility | Adjustable hood, adjustable Velcro cuffs, adjustable drawcord hem, brushed collar lining | Back yoke with ventilation holes, front placket with hidden snap button closure and YKK zipper, welded waterproof seams |
The mesh-lined pockets increase breathability in this jacket. If we were on a fast-paced hike or run, we could simply open them up and create a ton of airflow. The pit vents measure 11 inches for even more airflow, while the central zipper can be opened as well.
Like most of the stretchy rain jackets, the XeroCloud is comfortable. It fits well, true to size, with enough length and the arms and torso to fully prevent your arms and waist from getting soaked during unexpected weather — that is, until the fabric wets out. There's a ton of stretch in the design that makes it feel as versatile as a wind layer, but with enough structure to keep moisture at bay.
Overall, we were pretty disappointed in the XeroCloud 3L's waterproofing, especially since the fabric began to wet out after 30 minutes of consistent rain. Although a 3-layer design that includes a 72% recycled nylon and 28% recycled polyester blend along with HydroWall waterproofing, it just doesn't perform like a 3-layer construction in overall water resistance. We only recommend this jacket for those seeking protection in light to moderate rain conditions but wouldn't pack it into the mountains for protection when it matters.
Unfortunately, we don't feel confident in the longevity of the XeroCloud 3L's construction. The adjustable velcro in the wrists is thinner and prone to tearing away from the sleeve, while the DWR coating failed almost instantly in our first day of testing. Maybe applying another DWR treatment could make it more effective.
If you are after a reasonably priced rain jacket design that excels in comfort and mobility, the XeroCloud may be worth considering. While we think it lacks construction quality and water resistance for a 3-layer construction, it would be just fine for a little extra protection during your afternoon walk or trail run, we just wouldn't count on it as reliable protection in the mountains.
The XeroCloud 3L is a relatively lightweight, packable, and breathable rain jacket that excels in comfort and mobility thanks to its stretchy fabric. The Black Diamond Fineline Stretch is a better choice for those seeking a highly mobile design with great water resistance, and it weighs a lot less than the XeroCloud. The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L isn't as stretchy but it provides way better water resistance than the XeroCloud in the same price range.
