We’ve all worn a trash bag in a pinch. And while almost anything is better than being soaking wet, nothing beats a purpose-built rain jacket with the right combination of features and price to meet your needs.
We scoured the internet, spoke with brands, and researched a wealth of online reviews to narrow down the top contenders for the best rain jackets. Then, we tested the best of the best to determine which contenders stood out. We looked at materials, features (waterproof membranes, durability, breathability, packability), price, and more.
Scroll through to see all of our recommended buys or jump to the category you’re looking for. At the end of our list, be sure to check out our comprehensive rain jacket buyer’s guide, as well as our comparison chart. And if you still have rain jacket questions, take a look at our list of frequently asked questions.
- Best Overall Rain Jacket: Outdoor Research Foray Superstretch Jacket
- Best Budget Rain Jacket: REI Co-op XeroDry GTX
- Runner-Up Rain Jacket: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket
- Best Premium Rain Jacket: Arc’teryx Beta Jacket
- Best Ultralight Rain Jacket: Montbell Versalite Jacket
- Best Rain Jacket For Running: Janji Rainrunner Pack Jacket
- Best Breathability: The North Face Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT Jacket
- Best of the Rest: Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 Jacket
- Outdoor Research Helium Jacket
- Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Jacket
- Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket
- Outdoor Research Motive AscentShell Rain Jacket
- Black Diamond StormLine Stretch
- Rab Phantom Pull-On
- Mountain Hardware Exposure/2 Paclite Jacket
The Best Rain Jackets of 2023
Outdoor Research Foray Superstretch Jacket
Specs
- Waterproof material GORE-TEX Paclite 2L
- Waterproof rating 28,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 15,000 g/m²
- Pit zips Yes
- Fit Regular
- Weight 14.5 oz.
Pros
- Integrated stretch panel
- Full torso-length side zips
- PFC-free DWR treatment
- Roomy cut
Cons
- Membrane breathability on the lower end
- Slick-feeling interior
That’s why we were so impressed at how even-keeled the Outdoor Research Foray and Aspire Superstretch Jackets ($299) were. Building on their previous successes, the new Superstretch flavor from OR adds an elastane-infused GORE-TEX panel between the shoulder blades that provided an impressive amount of mobility in our testing.
While rain jackets with integrated stretch have become popular in recent years, our testing has shown that while the mobility gains are generous, most DWR finishes have a difficult time keeping up with a flexible fabric, and will often wet out before their non-stretch counterparts. That’s why we appreciate the design of the Superstretch jackets so much — which puts the stretch right where you need it and retains the waterproofing elsewhere.
Hewn from a tried-and-true GORE-TEX Paclite 2L membrane, OR has overcome the typical pitfalls of this membrane and capitalized on its strengths to create a rain shell that’s up for anything. While our previous experience with Paclite has shown it to be a supremely waterproof membrane, we often felt clammy when overworking the 15,000 g/m² breathability capacity. Not so, with the Foray.
Where other rain jacket pit zips may span from elbow to mid-torso, the TorsoFlo zips of the Foray and Aspire run a full two feet all the way to the hem, meaning that venting the zips feels like throwing open all the windows in the house. This supreme mechanical venting ability greatly manages previous breathability concerns, and in practice, it felt like turning a corner when it comes to the rain jacket paradigm.
Rounding out the Foray and Aspire is a three-way adjustable hood with buried cordlocks, YKK Aquaguard zippers (further guarded by storm flaps), and two torso pockets that are large enough to stuff the jacket into for storage. There is also a left-hand napoleon pocket on the chest, and an elastic drawcord hem.
If you find your adventures are a bit more static, the Foray and Aspire jackets are both available in a non-Superstretch cut — retaining everything we love about this jacket and at a palatable $75 less. And, as always, Outdoor Research is one of our favorites when it comes to offering a broad range of sizes to fit all body types.
REI Co-op XeroDry GTX
Specs
- Waterproof material GORE-TEX Paclite 2L
- Waterproof rating 28,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 15,000 g/m²
- Pit zips No
- Fit Regular
- Weight 12.5 oz.
Pros
- Budget price
- Weight
- Materials
Cons
- Breathability
- Not ideal for city use
The two-layer GORE-TEX PACLITE membrane provides a stout barrier against wind and moderate rain, though it suffers a bit when it comes to breathability — rated at 15,000 g/m². Thankfully, REI anticipated the issue and fitted the XeroDry with pockets that are mesh-lined, which double as core vents for moving moisture out when the pace picks up. Smart.
We also appreciated how the XeroDry stands up to scuffs, scrapes, and abrasion — all thanks to the tough Bluesign-approved polyester face fabric and DWR finish. The smaller fit and finish details of the jacket, like the zipper pulls, cord locks, and hook-and-loop cuffs, are all on the lighter-duty side, but we found them in testing to be perfectly functional for the price.
Most impressively, it manages all of this at under 13 ounces. At an approachable price, this $169 shell is meant for backpacking, with hip belt-friendly hand pockets that double as core vents to help dump heat. Plus, the XeroDry GTX carries both Bluesign and Fair Trade certifications.
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket
Specs
- Waterproof material Proprietary H₂No 3L
- Waterproof rating 20,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating Unpublished
- Pit zips No
- Fit Regular
- Weight 13.9 oz.
Pros
- Sustainability
- Price
Cons
- Plastic-y feel
- Fluorinated DWR finish
Many will also appreciate the number of sustainable choices Patagonia made when creating the new Torrentshell, such as the 100% recycled nylon ripstop face fabric, the Fair Trade sewing, and a PU membrane that employs 13% biobased content. For the price, you’d be hard-pressed to find another rain jacket that provides the same level of performance, which is why the Torrentshell was our Runner-Up choice.
While we previously deducted a few points from the Torrentshell for sporting a durable water repellent (DWR) finish that still contained PFCs, Patagonia has made good on their promise to continue to cut the forever chemicals out of the rain jacket mix, and now produces the Torrentshell with a full PFC-free build. We did find the face fabric to be a bit crinkly and bulky, something we attribute to working out the kinks in using recycled nylon, but it did soften some with use.
When you consider it’s under $180, you’ve got a budget- and resource-friendly rainwear option that’s just as at home on the trail as it is kicking around town. Check out our in-depth review for more information on why we chose the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L as our runner-up choice.
Arc’teryx Beta Jacket
Specs
- Waterproof membrane GORE-TEX 3L
- Waterproof rating 28,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 17,000 g/m²
- Pit zips No
- Fit Active/Slim
- Weight 10.6 oz.
Pros
- Burly construction
- Lightweight design
- High-quality fit and finish
Cons
- High price
- Fabric crinkle
Arc’teryx’s Beta line of jackets are made for ‘All-Around’ activities, and we can confirm that this jacket will just about do most of it. Utilizing a high-power GORE-TEX 3-layer membrane and a durable face fabric, this is the shell for serious outdoors folk who need absolute protection, no matter the price. Our own testing has taken the Arc’teryx Beta to places that other rain jackets shudder to dream of. Through it all, this jacket came out ready for more.
The Beta certainly isn’t cheap. At its premium price point, it’s better thought of as a long-term investment piece that’ll be around far into the future. But at a 28,000 mm waterproof rating, know that you’ll be protected from the rain for the long haul. During testing around British Columbia’s Squamish, we came to greatly appreciate this heightened waterproofing, as well as the trim fit that worked equally well cutting through downtown as it did getting up close and personal with a few waterfalls.
One downside of the über waterproof fabric is the distinct crinkle of fabric on fabric, which can become a drone on repetitious missions like ski touring. And since this is the lower end of the Beta line, this jacket does without pit-zips. If some added mechanical ventilation is high on your list, check out the Beta LT ($450).
One benefit of the buy-once-cry-once ethos is getting access to brands that are pushing innovation. Arc’teryx works closely with GORE-TEX to produce leading-edge fabric technologies, and if the leading edge is where you spend most of your time, the Arc’teryx Beta is up to the task. It’s probably the best rain jacket money can buy today, without stepping up to something more mountain-savvy like a hardshell jacket.
Montbell Versalite Jacket
Specs
- Waterproof membrane GORE-TEX INFINIUM 2L
- Waterproof rating 30,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 43,000 g/m²
- Pit zips Yes
- Fit Regular
- Weight 6.4 oz.
Pros
- Full-featured at UL weight
- Impressive breathability
- Smart patterning reduces seam lines
- Three-way adjustable hood
Cons
- Interior can feel slick
- Left hand zipper
While GORE-TEX INFINIUM WINDSTOPPER isn’t marketed as being a fully waterproof membrane, by incorporating fully taped seams and a DWR-finished face fabric, Mont Bell has been able to whip up a rain shell that sports water resistance that keeps up with the best, and puts up breathability numbers that knock many out of the running.
In the wilds, our initial fears over using a “windshell” material were quickly salved. Make no mistake, the Versalite can hang in a good rain. And the benefit to using GORE INFINIUM shows when the grade steepens or a thick mist rolls in: this jacket breathes like it’s got a set of lungs stashed away somewhere, and you don’t have to be knocking out 30-mile days to appreciate that.
For the weight, the Versalite is simply feature-packed. Compared to other jackets of the same, or even more weight, the Versalite boasts the full complement: a three-way adjustable hood that rolls up and stows away, two zippered hand pockets with ample space, and 16.5-inch pit zips for easy venting.
As with any specialized piece, the tech-heavy styling isn’t going to win you any awards, and at 10-denier the face fabric will require more care than your average knock-around rain jacket. But put to the task, the Versalite excels in its lane, jamming in many extra features that jackets of the same ilk can’t claim.
Janji Rainrunner Pack Jacket
Specs
- Waterproof material Proprietary Janji 2.5L
- Waterproof rating 30,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 30,000 g/m²
- Pit zips No
- Fit Active/Slim
- Weight 8 oz.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Waterproofing
- Good for high-aerobic activities like running
Cons
- Not as durable
To start, the Rainrunner ($198) has vented panels around the entire torso to vent the core, right where it’s needed most. The jacket has a full-length zipper that extends from the zippered hand pockets to the scuba-style hood. A hip-length hem, cinchable wrists, and reflective touches add to this jacket’s greatness.
But the best feature is the jacket itself: specifically, the newly updated fabric. It’s a lightweight, 2.5-layer 30,000 mm waterproof fabric with 100% taped seams, that packs down to just 8 ounces (7 ounces for our women’s size small.) The protective snugness at the wrists and hood lock water out, but at the same time, the design isn’t too restrictive or heavy.
This jacket will move with you, and due to its small packed size, you can take it on almost all adventures. Durability can take a hit when you’re a featherweight like the Rainrunner Pack Jacket, so choose your trails with care.
On top of all that, Janji donates 2% of proceeds to a different clean-water project nonprofit org each year. For the eco-conscious, it might be the best rain jacket for your mind and body.
The North Face Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT Jacket
Specs
- Waterproof material Proprietary FUTURELIGHT 3L
- Waterproof rating Unpublished
- Breathability rating 75,000 g/m²
- Pit zips No
- Fit Active/Slim
- Weight 11.9 oz.
Pros
- Excellent breathability
- Cold defense
Cons
- Limited stretch
- No pit zips
FUTURELIGHT fabric boasts an incredible breathability rating by utilizing a method known as nanospinning, creating a nano-sized fiber matrix that allows for air to flow freely from inside to out. For non-stop active pursuits where moisture management is key, the Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT ($230) scores high marks, and its 75,000 g/m² breathability rating is head and shoulders above all of the other rain jackets we’ve tested to date.
The membrane isn’t even the whole story on the Dryzzle, which is laid out in a smart cut with a feature set that makes it ideal for hiking and backpacking. During testing, we greatly appreciated the reverse-entry hand pockets, which open in such a way as to create a tight seal around your wrists when using the pockets. No more damp hands!
Coupled with a weight of just under 12 ounces and trustworthy water/windproof capabilities, the Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT is more than a one-trick pony, but truly excels when it comes to breathability. We only wished there was a bit more room under the shell for layers.
Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 Jacket
Specs
- Waterproof material Pertex Shield 2.5L
- Waterproof rating 20,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 20,000 g/m²
- Pit zips Yes
- Fit Regular
- Weight 13.2 oz.
Pros
- Feature-rich
- Adaptable
- Price
Cons
- Less intuitive left-hand zipper
- 2.5-layer membrane needs pit zips down for added breathability
The Pertex Shield 2.5-layer waterproof membrane sports what we believe is just about the perfect balance of waterproofing to breathability: 20,000 mm to 20,000 g/m², and generous pit zips help to avoid perspiration when the difficulty really ramps up. There are certainly other rain jackets that fill special niches better than the Downpour, but few tick more boxes across the range.
In our own testing, we were consistently impressed by the well-thought-out features that round out this shell. During a trail ride on Washington state’s Galbraith mountain, we battled on-again, off-again showers with the Downpour, and were keen on the roll-away hood, which easily tucked away for the rip down, as well as the drawstring hem which kept mud from going where the sun don’t shine.
There are a few stumbles: such as the sometimes difficult-to-manage left-hand zipper, and the need to mechanically vent to avoid interior slickness typical of 2.5-layer waterproof membranes — but we’re willing to look past these minor flaws for the sheer utility the Downpour provides.
The Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 is one of the most well-rounded rain jackets we’ve tested, and at the price (less than $200), it’s an easy go-to for anyone looking for a shell to do almost everything. Read more about the Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 in our in-depth review.
Outdoor Research Helium Jacket
Specs
- Waterproof material Pertex Shield 2.5L
- Waterproof rating 20,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 20,000 g/m²
- Pit zips Yes
- Fit Active/Slim
- Weight 6.3 oz.
Pros
- Ultra-packable
- Lightweight
- Tough Diamond Fuse textile tech
Cons
- No hand pockets
- Can wet out
While our use of the previous generation of Helium is extensive (we’ve carried it on over 2,000+ miles of thru-hiking), the newest iteration pushes the needle even further with the addition of a new version of Pertex Shield membrane with Diamond Fuse technology. Instead of increasing the denier for strength, this weave utilizes diamond-shaped yarns that interlock with one another to bulk up the tear resistance.
OR claims this adds up to a 5x more tear-resistant jacket over its predecessor, and while we haven’t dove into the brambles to prove it, a strong tug across the fabric does yield a more confidence-inspiring feel. During a recent trip to Joshua Tree National Park, the Helium jacket performed admirably when pressed against the sharp granite boulders of the desert.
Other improvements come in the form of the single napoleon pocket on the left chest, which has been enlarged for easier stuffing of the jacket into itself. There is also a hidden key clip to keep your keys close at hand, and YKK water-resistant zips on both the main and pocket zips.
When compared to its contemporaries, the Helium exists in sort of a middle-ground between the Zpacks Vertice and the Montbell Versalite, where the former offers higher breathability (and higher price), and the latter boasts more features and better livability, all at the same weight. As with many Pertex Shield jackets, we did find that breathability wasn’t quite what we’d like to see, and that the slick interior can feel clammy once you’ve pushed the jacket past the brink.
Choosing between the three will mean weighing your goals and going with the best fit, but for any discerning thru-hiker, alpine climber, or trail runner, the Helium rain jacket easily makes the grade.
Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Jacket
Specs
- Waterproof material Dry.Q 2.5L
- Waterproof rating 10,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 10,000 g/m²
- Pit zips Yes
- Fit Regular
- Weight 10.5 oz.
Pros
- Whole body stretch
- Soft material feel
- Mesh-lined pockets
Cons
- Simple hood
- Stretch fabrics require more frequent DWR treatments
Billed as a front-to-backcountry do-it-all shell, this jacket oozes movement and adds a nice amount of stretch to Mountain Hardware’s 2.5L Dry.Q waterproof membrane. The membrane itself specs out at a respectable 10,000 mm waterproofing and 10,000 g/m² breathability, and in a live-fire environment, we found the Stretch Ozonic to be ideal for lighter precip environments where motion is king, such as trail running, scrambling, or bumping around the city.
As a surprise, one of our favorite features of this jacket is hidden away: mesh-lined pockets. In terms of easy methods to add physical venting to a jacket, mesh is high on our lists (we’re surprised more jackets don’t incorporate this). There will be a slight durability ding with using a lighter material, but we’ve yet to see it pan out that way in our experience.
The hood of the Stretch Ozonic is fairly boilerplate, with a single drawcord adjustment at the rear of the head to keep it out of your eyes. No wire-stiffened brim here, but we did enjoy the soft microfleece chin guard for when the rain really let loose and we had to retreat inside the hood.
As with many stretch-infused jackets, you’ll need to keep up on the DWR treatments, as this is an area of tradeoff for the impressive flexibility of the membrane. But for when the occasional storm brews up, this jacket certainly will make the cut for folks who want a shell that will flow with them.
Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket
Specs
- Waterproof material Proprietary Vertice 3L
- Waterproof rating >20,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 56,000 g/m²
- Pit zips Yes
- Fit Regular
- Weight 7 oz.
Pros
- Impressively light weight
- High breathability
- Full waterproof front zipper
Cons
- Hood aperature is a bit small
- Fit and finish is a little rough
The standout headline of the Vertice is Zpacks’ proprietary membrane, which boasts an impressive claimed 56,000 g/m² breathability rating that stacks up strongly against the new wave of hyper-breathable membranes, such as The North Face’s FUTURELIGHT membrane.
This jacket is no slouch when it comes to waterproofing either at 20,000 mm, which typically will suffer when seeking out high breathability numbers. Compared to the lab numbers, we found during testing that we stayed dry for multiple hours of Pacific Northwest rainfall.
The finish of the Vertice is decidedly cottage industry, and you can tell that an actual human went to work on this jacket. We actually became fond of this fact, and there aren’t any sewing issues that would compromise the integrity of the jacket, but this is certainly a piece for the function-forward among us. There’s a reason thru-hikers look so goofy.
The hood of this jacket, unfortunately, left something to be desired, feeling more like looking through a porthole than anything else. In our estimation, adding a few more inches to this aperture would greatly improve the liveability on days when the precip doesn’t yield. For your next thru-hike or ultralight mission, the Vertice trims the fat but maintains the protection.
Outdoor Research Motive AscentShell Rain Jacket
Specs
- Waterproof material Proprietary AscentShell 3L
- Waterproof rating 15,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 30,000 g/m²
- Pit zips No
- Fit Active/Slim
- Weight 10.9 oz.
Pros
- Excellent stretch and breathability
Cons
- No sustainability certifications
- Waterproof membranes with stretch tend to wet-out faster
The Motive ($229), with OR’s electrospun AscentShell tech, boasts the brand’s lightest and most streamlined construction. Though not truly a softshell, the Motive still blends maximum stretch in a surprisingly quiet hardshell, so you’d be forgiven for thinking it might be.
It is important to note that waterproof membranes with stretch tend to wet out faster than their static counterparts, which makes the Motive a go-to for activities like backcountry skiing where moisture can’t soak in as easily.
At less than 11 ounces for the men’s version and 10 ounces for women, OR managed to make a surprisingly lightweight offering that still has conveniences like zippered hand pockets, an internal chest pocket, and an adjustable hood.
Black Diamond StormLine Stretch
Specs
- Waterproof material Proprietary BD.dry 2.5L
- Waterproof rating 10,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 10,000 g/m²
- Pit zips Yes
- Fit Regular
- Weight 11.3 oz.
Pros
- Value
- Weight
- Packability
Cons
- Not ideal over layers
Underarm gussets pair with four-way stretch to allow greater freedom of motion, while Black Diamond’s proprietary BD.dry membrane seals out the elements. The StormLine packs into its own pocket and has adjustable cuffs, and also features a climbing helmet-compatible hood. Plus, the jacket weighs just 11.3 ounces, which means you’ll hardly register that it’s hanging from your climbing harness or stashed away in your pack.
While not the best suited for layering, the StormLine is just the jacket for when a shower surprises you halfway up a climbing route.
Rab Phantom Pull-On
Specs
- Waterproof material Pertex Shield 2.5L
- Waterproof rating 20,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 20,000 g/m²
- Pit zips No
- Fit Active/Slim
- Weight 3 oz.
Pros
- Weight
- Packability
- Breathability
Cons
- Quarter-zip
- Not for continuous hard rain
Semi-stretchy (and semi-see-through), the Phantom uses a 2.5-layer Pertex Shield fabric that resists tearing and held up to its fair share of branches and boulder scrapes in our tests. It even packs into its own removable (snap-on) stuff sack — down to 4.5 x 2 inches. There’s always a trade-off for trimming the fat, and here, the addition of pit zips could have added to the mechanical ventilation.
When you’re pushing the limits or pushing for the FKT, ultralight shells like the Phantom take up scant real estate in a running or climbing pack, making this an ideal rain jacket for those who need to check the box without being saddled down.
Mountain Hardware Exposure/2 Paclite Jacket
Specs
- Waterproof membrane GORE-TEX PACLITE 2.5L
- Waterproof rating 28,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating Unpublished
- Pit zips No
- Fit Regular
- Weight 9 oz.
Pros
- Lightweight yet waterproof
- Nice pockets
Cons
- More expensive than similar options
Sure, it packs into its own pocket and boasts a (claimed) 9-ounce weight, but it also uses GORE-TEX PACLITE — a 2.5-layer membrane that adds packability at a slight sacrifice of overall durability. This jacket easily slides away into your daypack for a day out on the trails, or helps to keep your pack weight down on a multiday overnight trip.
An accessory chest pocket and stretchy mesh-lined hand pockets offer convenience and comfort. A brimmed, adjustable hood also helps cinch out moisture. Overall, the Exposure/2 Paclite is a good all-around, lightweight coat that’s equally capable on less-intense adventures.
Rain Jackets Comparison Chart
| Rain Jacket | Waterproof Material | Waterproof Rating | Breathability Rating | Fit | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor Research Foray Superstretch Jacket |
GORE-TEX Paclite 2L | 28,000 mm/24 hours | 15,000 g/m² | Regular | 14.5 oz. |
| REI Co-op XeroDry GTX | GORE-TEX Paclite 2L | 28,000 mm/24 hours | 15,000 g/m² | Regular | 12.5 oz. |
| Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket |
Proprietary H₂No 3L | 20,000 mm/24 hours | Unpublished | Regular | 13.9 oz. |
| Arc’teryx Beta Jacket | GORE-TEX 3L | 28,000 mm/24 hours | 17,000 g/m² | Active/Slim | 10.6 oz. |
| Montbell Versalite Jacket | GORE-TEX INFINIUM 2L | 30,000 mm/24 hours | 43,000 g/m² | Regular | 6.4 oz. |
|
Janji Rainrunner Pack Jacket |
Proprietary Janji 2.5L | 30,000 mm/24 hours | 30,000 g/m² | Active/Slim | 8 oz. |
|
The North Face Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT Jacket |
Proprietary FUTURELIGHT 3L | Unpublished | 75,000 g/m² | Regular | 11.9 oz. |
| Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 Jacket |
Pertex Shield 2.5L | 20,000 mm/24 hours | 20,000 g/m² | Regular | 13.2 oz. |
| Outdoor Research Helium Jacket |
Pertex Shield 2.5L | 20,000 mm/24 hours | 20,000 g/m² | Active/Slim | 6.3 oz. |
| Mountain Hardware Stretch Ozonic Jacket |
Dry.Q 2.5L | 10,000 mm/24 hours | 10,000 g/m² | Regular | 10.5 oz. |
| Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket |
Proprietary Vertice 3L | >20,000 mm/24 hours | 56,000 g/m² | Regular | 7 oz. |
|
Outdoor Research Motive AscentShell Rain Jacket |
Proprietary AscentShell 3L | 15,000 mm/24 hours | 30,000 g/m² | Active/Slim | 10.9 oz. |
| Black Diamond StormLine Stretch |
Proprietary BD.dry 2.5L | 10,000 mm/24 hours | 10,000 g/m² | Regular | 11.3 oz. |
| Rab Phantom Pull-On | Pertex Shield 2.5L | 20,000 mm/24 hours | 20,000 g/m² | Active/Slim | 3 oz. |
|
Mountain Hardware Exposure/2 Paclite Jacket |
GORE-TEX PACLITE 2.5L | 28,000 mm/24 hours | Unpublished | Regular | 9 oz. |
Why You Should Trust Us
Our team of testers has braved storms from the rain-drenched foothills of the Pacific Northwest to the mountains of Colorado to review and publish rain jacket guides for men and women. For this guide, we considered a broad range of uses for rain jackets, and included selections for both city and outdoor use.
Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is no stranger to a little precip. Living and playing in the state of Washington requires either a lot of patience in waiting for the weather to change, or a lot of gumption to get outside anyways. Exploring in the rain can be an exciting change, and having an appropriate rain jacket can make all the difference.
In considering these rain jackets, we consulted online resources, talked shop with brands, and then hit the field to pull our hoods up and let the skies open. From time spent on the Pacific Crest Trail to running laps on ice climbs, rain shells are often put to the test in a wild variety of conditions, and we aimed to review them in a broad spectrum of environments.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Rain Jacket
There are a lot of rain jackets on the market. And while having options is great, it can be overwhelming to choose. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll explain the most important factors to keep in mind when deciding on the best rain jacket for your needs.
Waterproofness
Given enough time and pressure, nothing is truly waterproof. Even the yellow rubber slickers that swaddle fisherfolk will eventually yield to enough H₂O, which means a little science is needed in order to understand relative water resistance in rain jackets.
Waterproofness is measured by the amount of water that can pile up on fabric before it leaks over a period of 24 hours. The minimum standard to call something waterproof is 1,000 mm, which should generally be capable of handling everyday front country use, like walking your dog around town in a light drizzle. But for outdoor adventures with severe weather, you’ll want to find a jacket with a waterproof rating between 5,000 mm and 30,000 mm.
Pressure can also lower the waterproofness of your rain jacket, and can be introduced from backpack straps or heavy snow.
- 5,000 mm: Where technical rain outerwear for outdoor adventures begins
- 5,000-10,000 mm: Waterproof under light rain or snow and no pressure
- 10,000-15,000 mm: Waterproof under many conditions, except under pressure
- 15,000-20,000 mm: Waterproof under heavy rain and snow
- >20,000 mm: Waterproof under heavy rain, snow, and pressure
Breathability
As humans, we tend to perspire as we run, hike, or climb in our rain jackets, so having a shell that is breathable should be highly valued. Measured most often by the Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) test, higher values in g/m² denote a better ability to allow perspiration to pass out of a jacket.
Many companies are now creating their own proprietary air-permeable waterproof membranes that boast high breathability ratings, but often in a trade-off for water resistance. These include FUTURELIGHT by The North Face, AscentShell by Outdoor Research, and NeoShell by Polartec.
Jackets intended for high-output activities will have a breathability rating of 20,000 g/m² or more, while lesser ratings between 10,000-15,000 will suffice for in-town use or when packability is the primary goal. The jacket with the highest breathability in our testing was The North Face Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT Jacket at an astounding 75,000 g/m².
Fabric Layers
2-layer
About as simple as simple gets, two-layer jackets utilize a waterproof membrane and outer face fabric to guard against scuffs and scrapes. These jackets often require hanging linings to protect the waterproof membrane from abrasion, which ups the bulk and weight factor, but can also keep the cost down on entry-level pieces.
2.5-layer
Jackets made with 2.5-layer fabrics incorporate a very thin protective lining to the inside of the waterproof membrane, which is typically laminated, screen printed, or sprayed on. These linings often increase the longevity and breathability of the jacket by decreasing the body oils and dirt that can clog the pores of the membrane.
One unfortunate drawback to these jackets is that they often feel clammy against the skin in continuous rain, and lack the moisture-wicking of three-layer jackets.
3-layer
By adding a third wicking textile to the interior of the membrane, three-layer jackets benefit from a significant bump in moisture management, but also typically in price. This is the realm of true all-day-deluge performance jackets, and most often use the big name-brand membranes that have come to dominate the industry, such as GORE-TEX or eVent.
Waterproof Membranes
Waterproof membranes come in a number of flavors these days, but all operate on a similar principle: keep the rain out and keep perspiration from building up inside the shell. The construction of these membranes is often as mechanical as they are chemical, and the two big players today are ePTFE and polyurethane membranes.
ePTFE Membranes
Best thought of as a piece of plastic stretched very thin, these specialty materials (polytetrafluoroethylene, to be specific) are expanded, creating micropores that act as a filter to inhibit water penetration, but allow water vapor to be expelled. GORE-TEX membranes are created using these materials and processes.
These ePTFE membranes have over 9 billion pores per square inch, each 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet, but 700 times larger than a water vapor molecule. This allows the membrane to resist water from the elements, but diffuse perspiration as it builds within the shell.
Most ePTFE waterproof membranes today also include a thin polyurethane coating on the inside to stop contaminants such as body oils from clogging these pores.
Polyurethane Membranes
The other majority share of waterproof membranes are made using a very thin sheet of polyurethane, which is naturally hydrophilic and maintains breathability through diffusion. These membranes have historically been monolithic, meaning that they lack any pore structure, but new technologies are producing air-permeable membranes which pass air freely.
Because they depend on diffusion to move perspiration from the inside, PU membranes require you to work up a bit of a sweat before they’ll really start to move moisture, which can lead to a slick interior if some mechanical ventilation isn’t employed.
Air-Permeable Membranes
New to the market in recent years, air-permeable membranes take the waterproof nature of polyurethane and create a matrix that allows for gaseous vapor transfer, as opposed to pure diffusion. Opening up the membranes in this way has led to great leaps in breathability, with membranes like The North Face’s FUTURELIGHT boasting a rating of 75,000 g/m².
GORE-TEX Pro
Used in higher-end jackets where maximum protection from wild conditions is needed, Gore’s three-layer Pro membrane is made of several ePTFE membranes bonded together. A >28,000 mm water resistance and 24,000 g/m² breathability put GORE-TEX Pro jackets at the top of the heap. In recent years, multiple versions of GORE-TEX PRO have been produced, including Most Rugged, Most Breathable, and Stretch.
GORE-TEX PACLITE PLUS
When packability is at a premium, Gore’s PACLITE PLUS is a 2.5-layer membrane that cuts down on bulk by stripping out the inner lining and spraying a double layer of polyurethane to increase durability. At >28,000 mm/24 hours of water resistance, PACLITE is plenty waterproof, but its breathability suffers some at 15,000 g/m².
GORE-TEX Active
The airiest of the GORE-TEX offerings, this variation of the Gore membrane boasts a higher breathability rating than other styles, making it ideal for high-exertion activities where moving water out is more important than keeping it out.
eVent
A three-layer membrane that is a close competitor to GORE-TEX, eVent adds even more breathability by coating the pores of its membrane with a water- and oil-shredding chemical that allows the fabric to stay air permeable. 30,000 mm/24 hours water resistance, >20,000 g/m² breathability. While eVent made a big splash when it arrived, today it has by-in-large disappeared from the market in favor of new air-permeable membranes.
Polartec NeoShell
Hailed when it first came out as revolutionary for its breathability (30,000 g/m²), Polartec’s NeoShell is better suited for high-perspiration activities where users are more worried about the moisture coming from within than from out. Its water resistance is mid-tier at 10,000 mm/24 hours.
Pertex Shield+
Using a polyurethane film membrane, Pertex Shield+ is able to achieve a good balance of water resistance and breathability at 20,000 mm and 20,000 g/m², respectively. Produced as a 2.5-layer fabric, jackets made with these membranes can sometimes be overwhelmed by perspiration and feel slick to the touch.
Proprietary Membranes
These include numerous specialty textiles that are created directly for manufacturers to their specifications, which allows them to fine-tune their membranes as well as keep overhead costs down and produce more affordable rainwear. Examples include Outdoor Research’s AscentShell technology, Black Diamond’s BD.dry, and many more.
We’ve found that rain jackets made with proprietary membranes are often significantly less expensive than jackets using name-brand membranes.
Durable Water Repellent Finish (DWR)
The first line of defense for a rain jacket, a durable water-repellent finish (DWR) is a hydrophobic coating that gives it that ‘duck’s back’ look of rain beading away harmlessly. This keeps water from overwhelming the waterproof membrane and prolongs its ability to stay waterproof.
DWR coatings also affect the ability of the jacket to breathe, as a wetted-out face fabric will inhibit the jacket’s ability to expel moisture. Abrasion, oils, and trail funk can all degrade the coating, so keeping your rainwear clean and re-waterproofed is the best way to ensure that your jacket continues to function at peak performance, as we discuss below.
Historically made from environmentally harmful chemicals known as perfluorocarbons (PFCs), many companies are now working on using PFC-free DWR finishes in their rain jackets. Patagonia has pledged to use a PFC-free DWR in all of its outerwear by 2024, and REI recently announced that it would soon no longer carry products from brands that continue to use the chemicals. We are happy to see this trend spreading throughout the industry.
Comfort
It’s important that your rain jacket moves comfortably with you and does not overly restrict your movement. A comfortable rain jacket will keep you dry without feeling annoying or cumbersome.
A growing trend has been incorporating built-in stretch into rain jackets, which greatly increases their abilities where high mobility is needed. Jackets we reviewed like the Black Diamond StormLine Stretch and Mountain Hardware Stretch Ozonic Jacket incorporate stretch and will move with you outdoors.
Small features usually define the overall comfort of a rain jacket. For example, a hood that fully blocks peripheral vision will not be comfortable to use. Ideally, your rain jacket will minimally limit your range of motion, and the interior lining will feel good against your skin.
Weight & Packed Size
Most people agree weight is an important consideration for any piece of outdoor gear. If you’re going to be carrying your rain jacket in a pack when it isn’t in use, you want it to be as light and compact as possible — without sacrificing usability. Many lightweight rain jackets, like the Montbell Versalite, weigh less than a pound without sacrificing durability and functionality.
Many rain shells stuff easily into their own pockets and become barely larger than a baseball. Once packed down, it’s nice to have an external clip-in loop on the stuff sack — especially for multi-pitch rock climbing or backpacking. If your rain jacket packs down conveniently, you’re more likely to bring it along and have it when it’s needed most.
Zippers, Pockets, and Seams
It’s nice to have a well-placed pocket or two in your rain jacket. However, more pockets mean more material, and more material means increased weight and decreased packability.
Also, pockets create seams that may also decrease the waterproof capability of the jacket. Still, it’s nice to at least have two hand pockets to keep your hands warm and dry in a storm. Waterproof zippers on pockets and front zippers can add increased water resistance and protect your valuables inside. Also, rain jackets will often incorporate underarm zippers to increase ventilation.
Sewing together a rain jacket introduces hundreds of holes into the fabric, so most incorporate taped or bonded seams to ward off leaks. Seam tape can be added to all seams, or sometimes only essential seams, in order to save weight.
Hood
Some rain jackets have hoods that double as a convenient stuff sack. Generally, if it’s raining hard enough to warrant a rain jacket, you’ll probably also have the hood up.
A well-designed hood should be strategically designed to offer full protection without limiting peripheral vision. Adjustments can include a simple drawstring at the rear of the hood to pull the crown out of your eyes, as well as side profile adjustments for peripheral coverage, and wire-stiffened brims to keep rain from draining into the hood.
Finally, it’s also important to ensure that your hood will fit over any helmet you may be wearing. Typically seen in more sport-specific or hardshell jackets, helmet-compatible hoods provide a bit of extra space internally to accommodate your protective headwear.
Extra Features
Ultimately, a rain jacket’s sole purpose is to keep moisture out. However, some jackets also include some extra features that add further value.
Some jackets come with features such as handwarmer pockets, large pit zips, and a roomy cut that allows space for warm layers underneath. These can be important to consider, as often rain jackets will be tailored to a certain range of uses. For example, a rain jacket that is crafted for city use will likely forgo pit-zips and instead provide some roomy hand pockets — while a shell meant for all-day hiking should sport an accommodating profile and adjustable hood cinches.
Sustainability
In striving to create the most waterproof membrane, the outdoor industry created a number of unsustainable practices which are slowly beginning to be rectified: using recycled materials, PFC-free DWR finishes, and ensuring sustainable practices are used during production.
Being Bluesign certified means that the fabric used in the jacket has passed an independent approval process to ensure that they are safe for the environment and consumers. A similar process is used in being Fair Trade Certified, where producers must ensure sustainable livelihoods for textile workers.
The most sustainable rain jacket in our review was the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket, which utilizes a 100% recycled face fabric, is Fair Trade Certified sewn, and is Bluesign approved.
Durability and Caring for Your Rain Jacket
A rain jacket is designed to be exposed to the elements, and a good one will do its job without falling apart. As rain jackets become lighter, users should expect a dip in durability, too.
However, on this list, we’ve included rain jackets that are both lightweight and reliable. A jacket that is abrasion-resistant will have much greater overall longevity. Purchasing a shell that utilizes a higher denier face fabric, such as the Arc’teryx Beta Jacket, will greatly increase its durability over time.
Often overlooked, regular upkeep of your rain jacket is essential to keeping the waterproof membrane happy and working as it was designed. When body oils and grime clog the interior pores, the breathability suffers, and a worn-away DWR finish does little to keep a jacket from wetting out. A quick and easy way to breathe some life into your DWR is a brief cycle in the dryer on medium heat.
When a more thorough cleaning is in order, begin by washing your rain jacket with a detergent that is made for waterproof fabrics, such as Nikwax Tech Wash. We’ve found that this will cleanse the waterproof membrane and allow it to function as designed.
You can go a step further by reapplying a fresh coat of DWR such as GEARAID Revivex Durable Water Repellent Spray, and then turning the jacket inside-out and drying it on high heat to set. This is a common fix and with frequent reapplication, it will keep water beading off your jacket when it counts.
FAQ
The best waterproof jacket is one that fits well, meets your needs, and provides reliable waterproofing. On this list, we have included several high-quality rain jackets.
When deciding which one to purchase, consider factors including the jacket’s waterproof rating, weight, durability, and extra features.
GORE-TEX is the gold standard for waterproof fabric. When undamaged and in good shape, GORE-TEX-treated fabrics will keep out any liquid water that lands on the surface.
However, over time, the quality of the waterproofing of GORE-TEX will degrade, and it will no longer perform like new. Most GORE-TEX materials have a waterproof rating of 28,000 mm.
It’s wise to always go into the outdoors prepared with a rain jacket. Many rain jackets are light and packable, so you’ll hardly notice them in your pack during the hike. In wet and cold conditions, a good rain jacket can keep you comfortable and safe.
Waterproof membranes in rain jackets degrade slowly, but are sensitive to becoming dirty and clogged with sweat and dirt. Often, a jacket still retains much of its original waterproof ability, and only needs to be cleaned with a waterproof fabric-safe detergent and re-waterproofed with a new DWR finish.
Wetting out occurs when the face fabric of a rain jacket becomes overwhelmed by water from the outside, saturating the outer face and limiting the ability of the waterproof membrane to do its job.
This can occur when a DWR finish has worn out, or external pressure from a heavy pack presses the moisture into the fabric. Frequent washing and re-waterproofing is the best bet to avoid wetting out.
Rain jackets are designed to keep water out while still allowing your body’s moisture to escape as vapor. Unlike a trash bag or plastic poncho, rain jackets are semipermeable and designed to keep you both cool and dry at the same time.
Still, a rain jacket is certainly less breathable than other kinds of layers, and you can expect some heat and moisture to get trapped underneath.
Strictly speaking, rain jackets are not usually designed with insulation. Most of the jackets we’ve recommended on this list are not insulated. The main job of a rain jacket is to protect you from rain, snow, wind, and other adverse weather. While rain jackets will add a little warmth, other layers such as fleece jackets and puffies provide much more and can easily be worn underneath a rain jacket.
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