13 Best Lightweight Rain Jackets for Travelers
By Rachel Chang and Meaghan Kenny
All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Nothing ruins your day like getting caught in the rain without the shield that is a trusty rain jacket. As travelers, it's not always convenient to halt plans when a downpour strikes—a lightweight rain jacket can make all the difference the next time your afternoon hike gets interrupted by an expected shower. The best designs for travelers are completely waterproof, windproof, and packable (bonus points if it stashes down into one of its own pockets). To help narrow your search, we rounded up 13 versatile and durable rain jackets to bring on your next adventure, whether you're anticipating some less-than-perfect weather or want something compact just in case.
Keep scrolling for our top lightweight rain jackets to wear this fall and beyond, from trusted brands like Patagonia, Columbia, Arc'teryx, Rains, and more. But first, let's answer some commonly asked questions you might be wondering while shopping for your new jacket.
How do I wash a rain jacket?
While most rain jackets can be thrown in the washing machine on a gentle setting, always check the brand's website or the jacket's tag for any specific cleaning instructions. If you are machine washing, prevent ripping or damaging its waterproof coating by choosing a delicate cycle and limiting it to a quick wash if possible.
Are packable rain jackets worth it?
Jackets can be heavy, bulky, and take up a lot of precious packing space. Travelers will benefit from buying a lightweight, packable rain jacket that can be folded up tightly to fit inside a carry-on . Some options below can even be packed into their own pocket, like the Columbia Arcadia II and the Patagonia Torrenshell 3L rain jacket.
How should a rain jacket fit?
It's a safe bet to buy your true size in a rain jacket, or slightly larger to accommodate layers. Your rain jacket should be fitted and snug enough to keep you warm and protected, but comfortable enough that you can wear a sweater underneath on chilly days.
Our top picks:
- Best everyday rain jacket: Patagonia Torrenshell 3L rain jacket
- Best lightweight rain jacket: Coalatree Whistler windbreaker
- Best packable rain jacket: Columbia Arcadia II rain jacket
- Best budget-friendly rain jacket: Columbia Glennaker rain jacket
- Best hiking rain jacket: Arc'teryx Beta LT Jacket
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Madison Flager.
Whether you're exploring a new city or heading into the office, the Torrentshell rain jacket is equally practical and polished. It features a two-way-adjustable hood and a micro-fleece-lined neck to deliver a comfortable waterproof yet breathable barrier. It packs up to fit in its front pocket, so you can easily toss it in your carry-on or weekender bag last minute. This bestseller is available in men's and women's sizes and various colors, including white, black, mauve, blue, green, and more.
We trust The North Face to keep us warm on chilly, rainy fall and winter days. Made from 100 percent recycled fabrics, the Antora jacket features a waterproof, windproof, and seam-sealed shell to keep you dry. It comes with an adjustable three-piece hood, elastic-bound cuffs, a drop-tail hem, and plenty of zippered pockets to hold keys, AirPods, or other small essentials.
The Columbia Arcadia II rain jacket has just the right dose of everything. Its Omni-Tech nylon fabric is sturdy enough to make you feel protected, but its breathable mesh lining prioritizes comfort whether you're on the trails or riding a bike—and the adjustable velcro cuffs and collar allow you to quickly make adjustments on the go. Plus, the whole thing zips into a pouch in one of the hand pockets.
The best-selling Glennaker rain jacket is ultra-lightweight and packs down into its chest pocket, making it a great option to toss in your suitcase (you know, just in case). Made of waterproof nylon, it features a stowaway hood, zippered front pockets, and adjustable sleeve cuffs. It will certainly keep you protected and warm during a downpour, but it's versatile enough to not look out of place while hiking, biking, or sightseeing.
This sleek option from Lululemon proves rain jackets can be just as stylish as they are functional. Not only does this one look good, but it’s made with a windproof and waterproof exterior, and a sweat-wicking liner, making it a perfect year-round jacket. It has a classic fit and hits right at the thigh, offering more coverage than your average rain jacket. There are also several zippered pockets, a hidden phone sleeve, and a cinchable waist and hood to help ensure the perfect fit.
Ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities, this top-rated rain jacket features a WaterTight front zipper that prevents moisture from slipping through the cracks. Its snug fit blocks cold air from hitting your back and the sleeves are designed to offer a full range of motion. This waterproof and windproof jacket also features an adjustable hood and several zippered pockets.
Part of Lands' End's limited-edition 1963 collection which pays homage to its heritage, the Squall anorak is a more fun take on the classic jacket. The fun-colored pullover has a seam-sealed shell, making it fully waterproof and windproof while locking in extra warmth. Its reflective loop tab makes it a safer option to wear at night and the front kangaroo pocket helps you store extra essentials on the go (like snacks—lots of snacks).
A thigh-length rain jacket is a great option to stay a little bit warmer (and a little bit dryer) on a rainy day. Made with a recycled ripstop nylon shell and a durable water-repellent finish, the jacket wicks away raindrops and maintains its windproof nature in up to 60 mph winds. The three-piece hood is adjustable and can be stowed away when you're not using it. And since it packs away in its own left pocket, it's compact enough for travelers.
A sturdy and reliable option loved by outdoorsy travelers, the Carharrt Rain Defender features a water-repellent coating that keeps you dry on rainy days. It's insulated and quilted to keep you warm without being too bulky to pack and it's great for layering over a sweater come winter. It features an adjustable hood, drawcord drop-tail hem for extra coverage, and a zippered storage pocket for stashing your phone or wallet.
Finding durability in a lightweight rain jacket can feel like an oxymoron, but Coalatree has found the secret in its self-healing HiloTech fabric. The Whistler Windbreaker shows off this magic: whether you've got a puncture or tear, just rub your fingers over the rip and the heat and friction will cause it to mend on its own. Even better, the unisex jacket is still DWR (durable water repellent) coated and weighs just seven ounces.
Danish brand Rains designed this rain jacket for an active lifestyle. The two-way waterproof zipper ensures all-around wind and rain protection, while the cap and adjustable hood and hem offer flexibility to cater to any condition. The neutral color options—black, navy, olive, or gray—will blend in with any outfit.
Ideal for hiking, this lightweight rain jacket offers windproof and waterproof protection. The hem-to-bicep venting allows travelers to shed heat while moving so you'll stay warm without overheating. It also features a fully adjustable hood, an elastic drawcord hem to lock in extra insulation, and a key clip.
With a 100 percent recycled polyester shell, the Vuori Oahu rain jacket delivers seam-sealed waterproof protection. This jacket offers a power mesh lining, duckbill hood, and a durable exterior designed to withstand heavy rain. And not only is this packable jacket so sleek, it's ethically made, too.
- Search Please fill out this field.
- Manage Your Subscription
- Give a Gift Subscription
- Sweepstakes
- Travel Products
We Tested the Best Rain Jackets for Men — These Are Our Top Picks
These men’s rain jackets will keep you dry even in the wettest conditions.
In This Article
Jump to a Section
- Our top picks
- Others We Liked
Our Testing Process
- Tips for Buying
- Why Trust T+L
We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
A rain jacket not only offers protection from getting soaked when you’re walking through the city or out on the trail. It’s also an extra layer when it’s cold or windy, a fashion statement in its own right, and an investment, because with proper care a good rain jacket can and should last for years to come.
We tested 17 of the industry’s top-rated men’s rain jackets and ranked them based on water resistance, comfort, breathability, design, and value. We walked in the rain to test for water absorption, did jumping jacks to assess temperature control and breathability, and determined each jacket’s value using our experience as travelers and product testing experts.
Overall, we found Outdoor Research’s Foray Super Stretch Jacket to offer the best value. This jacket uses Gore-Tex Paclite fabric, which “tends to be more durable and more dependably protective” than other materials, according to product manager at Outdoor Research, Charlie Berg. However, we’ve rounded up a variety of the best styles on the market right now to help every traveler find the best rain jacket for their needs.
Best Overall
Outdoor research foray super stretch jacket.
- Water Resistance 5 /5
- Design 5 /5
- Comfort 5 /5
- Breathability 5 /5
Rain flies off this durable jacket, and stretchy fabric in the back offers full range of motion.
The hood’s brim could extend out further for more protection.
This Outdoor Research jacket does exactly what it’s made to do: repel water. When we tested this jacket, rainwater beaded up like marbles and slid right off without getting absorbed at all, leaving the coat feeling completely dry despite an intense downpour. Even in huge downpours throughout our three-month test, the jacket remained completely waterproof, even at the seams. While lightweight, this jacket feels very high-quality and tear-resistant with an appealing matte finish. It’s also just the right weight, and didn’t leave us feeling too hot. Unique among other raincoats we tested, this jacket has a stretch material in the back that really works; it provides comfortable mobility in the upper back and arms when walking around or jumping.
However, we did notice that the wire hood brim was a little short and didn’t fit snugly, so water fell through the opening at times. That said, this is a high-quality jacket that should last for years to come, and is a worthy investment for active adventurers.
The Details: S to XXL | Gore-Tex with Paclite, 37 percent nylon, 44 percent polyester, 19 percent elastane panels | Waterproof
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Best for Hiking
Outdoor research microgravity jacket.
Outdoor Research
This jacket is lightweight, remarkably breathable, and packs down small.
There are no inside pockets.
While most waterproof equipment tends to incorporate Gore-Tex materials, Outdoor Research is changing the game with its MicroGravity AscentShell. The Outdoor Research-developed AscentShell fabric has microscopic holes that keep water out while letting in air, making it breathable and waterproof at the same time. In our tests, we found the material to be just as waterproof as promised – water turned into droplets and wasn’t absorbed at all. We also noticed the high levels of breathability when we put it on, as it managed to keep us warm without making us feel sweaty.
Another key point for buying this jacket for travel is its packability – it’s super lightweight and packs into itself, making it easy to bring on any trip. We did notice the absence of any inside pockets, however, but it wasn’t a dealbreaker for us.
The Details: S to 3XL | AscentShell, nylon, polyester | Waterproof
Watch How We Test Travel Products
Rains long jacket.
- Breathability 3.5 /5
This coat features a stylish Scandinavian look that’ll keep your backside dry.
While the buttons offer a stylish edge, they won’t keep you totally dry.
If you’re looking for a stylish city raincoat with upgraded materials, Rains has you covered (literally). The Danish company’s rain jacket has a long thigh-length cut and is closed via nine buttons on the front. While the buttons look classic, they do leave a smidge of space for rain to get in as opposed to a watertight zipper. Still, this jacket did a great job of repelling water and, even though the company says it’s only suitable for light rain, we found it kept us completely dry throughout our three-month tests. This jacket could easily work as a spring or fall coat as it provides some warmth, and the hood is large enough to protect you from the elements.
With a soft rubber feel and six attractive color options, this jacket is a great option for those looking for something with more coverage.
The Details: XS to XXL | Polyester with polyurethane coating | Waterproof for light rain
People / Jhett Thompson
Best Budget
Giisam windproof waterproof jacket.
- Water Resistance 4.5 /5
- Breathability 4 /5
This thick, waterproof jacket is a steal at this price.
There are no vents for breathability and it’s not very packable.
Gotta love it when an affordable product feels higher quality than the price, which is just the case for this jacket available on Amazon. We found the material of this Giisam jacket to be thick and high-quality. It kept water out during our tests, and it’s a great option to wear as a warm layer in cool weather. That said, it’s not very breathable so it’s not well-suited to warmer weather. It also isn’t the lightest or most packable jacket. Still, it’s a solid pick, especially if you plan to wear it onto the plane or in the car when traveling to your destination.
The Details: S to XXL | 99 percent polyester, 1 percent other | Waterproof
Best Breathable
Patagonia torrentshell jacket.
Dick's Sporting Goods
- Design 4 /5
- Comfort 4 /5
This is a great combination city-and-travel jacket at a reasonable price.
It’s not as thin and packable as other jackets on our list.
Patagonia’s Fair Trade Torrentshell is an ideal everyday jacket that’s built to last. It is fully waterproof while maintaining some breathability thanks to Patagonia’s trademark H2No fabric. That said, it doesn’t retain warmth very well, so it’s better suited to warmer weather and more active pursuits. However, if you do wear it in cooler weather, thankfully there are microfleece pockets to keep your hands cozy in a pinch.
We found the material to be equal parts lightweight and sturdy, but not too thick, which is impressive for a three-layer fabric design. This jacket comes in 11 different colors, and the price is less than some other top-quality jackets. The value only gets better considering Patagonia’s long standing policy of repairing their products if something breaks.
The Details: XS to 3XL | Recycled nylon, PU membrane, and tricot backer | Waterproof
Best Active
Montbell men’s jacket.
- Comfort 3.5 /5
This jacket is super packable and can roll up as small as a soda can, so throughout our three-month test, it essentially lived permanently in our commuter bag to have on-hand when it rains.
It’s too thin to be considered a warm jacket.
We found this jacket made by Japanese outdoor brand Montbell to be comfortable and breathable with a nearly weightless material and long pit zips. Of all the jackets we tested, it proved to be the best option for runners and athletes, as the waterproof Gore-Tex material stretched and allowed us to move fluidly.
However, we found it to be a bit too tight and thin to keep us warm in the cold, and it’s quite pricey. That said, for active travelers who just want something as light and packable as possible, it’s a terrific option.
The Details: S to XL | Gore-Tex, nylon | Waterproof
Best Lightweight
Marmot precip jacket.
- Comfort 4.5 /5
It offers excellent value for a high-performance, lightweight jacket.
It only has one drawstring at the waist – we would have preferred another to have as backup.
We loved the big pit zips on this jacket and how comfortable it is; we noted it felt almost as comfortable as cotton and was one of the lightest jackets we’ve ever put on. There were no problems with keeping the water off as droplets dripped off instantly, and it allowed for free range of movement when we wore it during jumping jacks, so we think it’ll do just fine on the trail.
We did notice the lack of two drawstrings on the waist in the case the first one fails, but other than that, this jacket offers terrific value.
The Details: S to XXL | NanoPro recycled polyester | Waterproof
Best for City Wear
Columbia men's glennaker lake rain jacket.
- Design 3 /5
- Breathability 4.5 /5
The hood can be tucked into the collar if you don't want to use it and the velcro wrist straps are great for keeping water out.
At times during our tests, we had trouble with the zipper getting caught in the inside fabric.
This convertible jacket is the perfect multi-purpose layer for rainy, windy, or chilly days. In the rain, water beads nicely and rolls right off of the fabric, while the polyester outer layer keeps users warm. The design is a bit more stylish than more traditional rain jackets and we love that the hood can be tucked into the collar and zipped away when not in use.
The jacket features two standard zipper pockets and one inside pocket, so during our tests, we actually loved this rain coat as a throw-on layer while walking the dog in all types of weather. The sleeves are a great size and feature an adjustable wrist cuff to keep them secure without limiting any mobility.
The Details: S to 6X with tall options | Polyester, nylon | Waterproof
Other Men's Rain Jackets We Liked
Eddie Bauer RainPac Anorak : We liked the hoodie-style zip and kangaroo pocket, but it lacks features and quality compared to other jackets we tested.
Our testers put 17 rain jackets through the ringer to determine our top picks. First, we got a feel for each jacket’s comfort and analyzed its features and overall appeal. Then, we did jumping jacks to see how breathable and comfortable each jacket was while testing out different ranges of motion. To test if it was truly waterproof, we sprayed each jacket and put it under the shower to see if any moisture soaked through to a paper towel on the other side. Finally, we gave each jacket a shake and checked to see if it managed to stay completely dry. Each jacket was then sent out into the real world for additional testing over a six-month period.
Tips for Buying Men's Rain Jackets
Look for temperature control features.
For a versatile rain jacket, you’ll want something you can wear in various settings and temperatures, so look for options that have adjustment features like pit zips or breathable materials like Gore-Tex or Outdoor Research’s AscentShell.
Think about how you plan to use it
Are you looking for a stylish raincoat to walk around town in, or do you need something to hike the Andes in? Just because a jacket is waterproof doesn’t mean it can handle both situations due to varying breathability, weight, and packability features. Choose your jacket based on the type of activities you plan to use it for.
First, try and wipe off any stains with a wet cloth. For a more thorough wash, follow the care instructions on your jacket’s label or the company’s website. If you plan to put it in the washing machine, you’ll likely need a specific type of detergent dedicated for high-performance fabric as well as a specialized waterproofing spray to apply when it’s dry, so be sure to check ahead of time.
A waterproof jacket should keep you completely dry in heavy rain, while water-resistant jackets typically can only withstand a light sprinkle before water starts to get absorbed. If you plan on wearing your jacket in high-moisture settings, we recommend looking for something that is fully waterproof.
Many rain jackets can be rolled directly into one of their pockets for easy packability, and we love a packable jacket for travel. If not, lay your jacket flat, fold in the sides, and roll it as tightly as possible into the hood to save the most space in your luggage.
Why Trust Travel and Leisure
For this story, writer Joel Balsam , a freelance journalist and full-time traveler who never packs a bag without a rain jacket, reviewed and aggregated feedback from our T+L testers. He also included expert insights from Outdoor Research’s Charlie Berg .
Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Table of contents
10 Best Rain Jackets of 2024
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links
A quality rain jacket is a staple for any outdoor adventure: it will shield you from rain, wind, and cold, keeping you dry, warm, and comfortable. Our team of seasoned backpackers and dedicated gear buffs doesn’t just compare specs – we researched 80 models and have trail-tested more than 40 rain jackets over the past ten years from brands like Patagonia, Arc’teryx, REI, and Outdoor Research to see how they perform in real-world conditions.
From the rain forests of Oregon and the summer monsoons of the Rocky Mountains to the swampy and soggy Appalachians, we’ve put over 500 days of downpour to good use and whittled this list to the best of the best when it comes to rain protection.
If you prefer ponchos or umbrellas on trail, we’ve also picked out our top choices for each. And if you’ll be in really wet conditions, we recommend taking a look at our list of the top rain pants available. And if chilly days and nights are in the forecast, you’ll definitely want to layer up with one of our favorite fleeces or down jackets .
Quick Picks for Rain Jackets
Take a look at this quick list of our favorite rain jackets or continue reading to see our full list with in-depth reviews.
Best rain jacket overall: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L – Men’s / Women’s ($179)
Best rain jacket for ventilation: Outdoor Research Foray II – Men’s / Aspire II – Women’s ($225)
Best budget rain jacket: REI Rainier – Men’s / Women’s ($100)
Super comfortable rain jacket : Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic – Men’s / Women’s ($230)
Best ultralight rain jacket: Montbell Versalite – Men’s / Women’s ($260)
Most protective rain jacket for wet conditions: Arc’teryx Beta – Men’s / Women’s ($400)
Breathable ultralight rain jacket: Zpacks Vertice – Men’s / Women’s ($299)
Lightweight & affordable rain jacket: Black Diamond StormLine Stretch – Men’s / Women’s ($180)
High value rain jacket: REI Flash Stretch – Men’s / Women’s ($169)
Most affordable ultralight rain jacket: Outdoor Research Helium – Men’s ($170) / Women’s ($180)
Affordable & versatile rain jacket: Marmot Precip Eco – Men’s / Women’s ($120)
After many drizzly desert mornings and massive mountain thunderstorms, we’ve updated our list:
- The Outdoor Research Foray II ( men’s ) / Aspire II ( women’s ) are top contenders for their unrivaled ventilation, quality construction, and cool colorways.
- The Arc’teryx Beta ( men’s / women’s ) earns a spot thanks to its durable and quiet fabric and an excellent hood design.
- We added the brand new and super comfy REI Flash Stretch Jacket ( men’s / women’s ), a great choice for 3-season hiking thanks to an oversized fit and quick-drying fabrics.
- The affordable and practical Marmot Precip Eco ( men’s / women’s ) gets the nod as a less expensive comfortable rain jacket.
- We added suggestions for ponchos for hiking based on comfort, versatility, and packed size as well as our picks for the best umbrellas for hiking .
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
Best rain jacket overall
Price: $179
Weight: 14.1 oz. (men’s) / 12.4 oz. (women’s)
- Durable materials
- High-quality construction
- Deep pockets
- Stylish fit
- Strong hem & sleeve ties
- Packs small into its own pocket
- Hood rolls up
- Tons of colorways
- A bit heavy/bulky for extended backcountry trips
- A bit baggy in sleeves
- No external chest pocket
The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L ( men’s / women’s ) has been at the top of our list for many years, and for good reason. It’s one of our go-to rain jackets and all-time favorites. From 150-day thru-hikes of the CDT including torrential downpours, high-alpine blizzards, and drizzly fall weather, to trips skiing, camping, and hiking the local trails, this jacket is a durable, affordable workhorse.
The Torrentshell features laminated triple-layer construction that makes it protective in sustained rain, but still feels impressively lightweight on your body. The hood is adjustable and features a large visor to keep the rain out of your eyes and off your face, but it also rolls away easily with a cord and hook when not in use.
For a rain jacket, the Torrentshell is cozy. A soft microfleece lining at the neck adds a soft-to-the-touch feel and wicks away moisture with ease. This jacket has two hand warmer pockets as well as storm flaps – overlapping material that covers the main zipper and pit zips to help you stay dry.
Even though it’s a bit bulky, the Torrentshell still packs down small into the left hand warmer pocket and comes with a convenient carabiner loop so you can keep it easily accessible when the skies open up.
The only major complaint we have about the Torrentshell is its weight. At 14.1 ounces for the men’s version and 12.4 ounces for the women’s, there are other jackets on this list that are better suited for long-distance trips where shaving pack weight is important. So if you’re considering the Torrentshell exclusively for backpacking, we’d recommend other options on this list.
Though it’s not as airy or compressible as some, we highly recommend it for adventures when stormy conditions are inevitable. The Torrentshell is a versatile, reasonably affordable, and very durable jacket that we recommend for all-around use.
Outdoor Research Foray II / Aspire II
Best rain jacket for ventilation
Price: $225
Weight: 11.9 oz. (men’s) / 11.7 oz. (women’s)
- Extra-long pit zips for unrivaled ventilation
- Deep handwarmer pockets
- External chest pocket
- Supple, flexible material
- Many colorways
- A little pricey
- A bit tight for those with wide shoulders
Thanks to excellent ventilation and smart design details, the Outdoor Research Foray II ( men’s ) / Aspire II ( women’s ) earns a spot at the top of our list. This jacket offers some of the best ventilation on the market, top-tier wind and rain resistance, and a stylish cut. CleverHiker Managing Editor, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, has used the Foray II on dozens of day hikes from the iron skies of Michigan to the rugged high alpine of the Colorado Rockies, it’s one of his go-tos for wet weather, and it continues to perform season after season.
If you’re looking for a jacket with breathability, the Foray and Aspire take ventilation to the next level. We love rain jackets with large pit zips for their breathability, but these Outdoor Research models have zippers that extend from the armpit all the way to the bottom hem. This versatile design allows you to completely unzip the jacket down your torso for extreme, poncho-style ventilation, or very precisely control how much airflow you want to keep your entire upper body cool.
Details matter when it comes to performance gear, and the Foray and Aspire are no exception. A simple hood drawcord is well placed and easy to reach, and large hem drawstrings make micro-adjustments a breeze while on the move. We love that the Foray and Aspire’s cuffs offer both elastic and large Velcro tabs for use with bulky gloves.
We found the fit is a bit tight through the shoulders, so if you’ve got a broad or wide build, you’ll want to double-check sizing. And though this jacket is a little pricey, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better value for a relatively lightweight, super-breathable option. When the weather begins to turn and the skies open up, this jacket is a stellar option for staying both dry and well-ventilated.
REI Rainier
Best budget rain jacket
Price: $100
Weight: 11.3 oz. (men’s) / 9.9 oz. (women’s)
- Lightweight
- Button at bottom of zipper flaps keeps rain out
- Lots of colorways
- Deep zippered handwarmer pockets
- Packs into itself
- Oversized hood
- Less durable than others
- A bit challenging to pack into stash pocket
The REI Rainier rain jacket ( men’s / women’s ) has been a favorite of hikers, backpackers, and our team at CleverHiker for a long time. For only $100, this jacket offers a stellar value: it’s well-designed and balances light weight and weather protection. The Rainier has been one of our favorite jackets as a team over thousands of miles on trail, from day hikes in the Cascades to weeks at a time in the Colorado Rockies, and it has performed extremely well.
The Rainier covers all the basics and adds small details we love. Articulated elbows offer a better range of motion with layers on, there are two internal drop pockets – unlike many jackets, which have one (or none) – and the hood is adjustable with a large Velcro tab that’s easy to manipulate even when your hands are wet and cold. Plus, it has pit zips and a practical drawstring hem.
The Rainier offers a slim but modern style, so it doesn’t look out of place whether you’re headed to the local brewery after walking the dog under dreary skies or backpacking on a stormy weekend. We appreciate that the newest version is a bit quieter thanks to a refreshed nylon blend, and the Rainier comes in an array of colorways, from brighter to muted and mellow for every style.
The cons of the Rainier are few. At its price point, it’s a little less durable than burlier models but we have gotten several seasons of use from different versions. It’s also a bit cumbersome to stash into its own pocket, although it makes for a fairly compact package once all the material is collapsed.
The Marmot PreCip Eco is almost identical to the Rainier. Both are great budget jackets, but we slightly prefer the Rainier for its wider availability, quieter fabric, slimmer fit, and better price point.
When you’re heading into drizzly and damp conditions, exploring a new route with friends, or knocking out a few dozen miles of backcountry trail, the Rainier is an excellent rain jacket at a stellar price.
Arc’teryx Beta
Most protective rain jacket for wet conditions
Price: $400
Weight: 10.6 oz. (men’s) / 9.5 oz. (women’s)
- Highest quality build
- Smart hood design
- Hipbelt compatible pockets
- Quieter fabric
- Excellent in downpours
- Very expensive
- No storm flaps over zippers
- Slim fit isn't for everyone
The Arc’teryx Beta ( men’s / women’s ) is a top choice for its superior waterproofing. From the rigors of everyday on-off wear to keeping you dry in the gnarliest, wettest rainstorms (or even alpine blizzards), this is the only shell you’ll need for staying dry in nasty weather.
If you’re undeterred by extreme wet conditions, the Beta jacket is for you. This model’s three-layer Gore-Tex fabric sheds water easily and feels durable in heavy rain, sideways sleet, and whipping snow – and the newly redesigned Beta is now produced without PFAS, which translates to less pollution during production and a more mindfully-made jacket. The drop hem at the back effectively directs and sheds water away from your body as you move. We also appreciate the ergonomic, oversized zippers that are easy to grasp even with bulky gloves on.
The Beta stands out for its dialed-in design: the fabric feels impenetrable, but the fit is roomy enough at the shoulders and elbows to move naturally with you. We find this athletic construction performs admirably on the toughest alpine days where every detail matters. CleverHiker Gear Analyst, Ian Krammer, has used this jacket as his go-to shell to climb hundreds of 13,000-foot Colorado peaks in frigid winter conditions and has also used it in soaking July thunderstorms while climbing in the Rocky Mountains.
We also love the hood design of the Beta. Its high internal collar blocks wind and rain by locking in snugly under the chin, and helps retain a bit of extra warmth in cold, pressing wind. The overlapping hood adjustments fit precisely and snugly around your face, and the wide visor keeps even driving, sideways rain at bay. The hood is helmet-compatible, but it doesn’t feel floppy on its own.
The biggest downside of the Beta is its price tag. This is one of the most expensive jackets we’ve ever tested. The Beta is also bulky compared to other options on this list – it doesn’t pack down well, and this model certainly isn’t the lightest out there.
That said, heft is a small con in the face of serious storms, and this is the jacket our team trusts most in severe rain and snow conditions. And if your use case is a little different, the Beta also comes in an insulated version ( men’s / women’s ) and lightweight version ( men’s / women’s ) .
The Beta is worth the investment for those who need a rain jacket that will last season after season of hard use in wet weather. If you’re on the hunt for a technical rain jacket that can truly do it all, this is the one.
Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic
Super comfortable rain jacket
Price: $230
Weight: 10.7 oz. (men’s) / 9.9 oz. (women’s)
- Stretchy & comfortable
- Large chest pocket
- Large pit zips
- 2 adjustable hem cords
- Packs small into itself
- Hood visor isn’t as wide or long as some
- Velcro cuffs are thin & less sticky
If comfort is your top priority, you’ll love the Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Rain Jacket ( men’s / women’s ). This versatile coat offers soft-to-the-touch fabric, practical pockets, and excellent waterproofing for trekking rugged trails.
The Ozonic continues to be one of the most comfortable jackets on our list – that’s why it stays near the top. CleverHiker Gear Analyst, Heather Eldridge, has worn this jacket on hundreds of day hikes because the stretchy fabric is soft to the touch and gives a relaxed, unrestricted feel that’s easy to move in. And thanks to the breathable fabric, the material is impressively quiet – you can actually hear what your friends are saying with the hood up!
The Ozonic has all the key elements we look for in a rain jacket: hand pockets, two-way hood adjustment, and pit zips, so it’s great for just about any activity. We also love its low weight. At 10.7 ounces for a men’s medium, the Ozonic is near the front of the pack, making it easy to carry, wear, and stuff away.
That said, this Mountain Hardwear classic has a couple of quirks. We find the fit is a bit unusual: it’s baggy through the torso and the sleeves are on the shorter side. However, the major advantage of this looser fit is that it’s great for layering. If you love cooler-weather adventures where rocking a fleece and puffy is vital for comfort, you’ll have no trouble fitting warm layers underneath the Ozonic.
More than anything, we reach for the Ozonic because of its outstanding comfort, trendy profile, and trusty waterproofing. This jacket will shield you from windy, misty mountain summits and downpours alike.
Montbell Versalite
Best ultralight rain jacket
Price: $260
Weight: 6.4 oz. (men’s) / 5.8 oz. (women’s)
- Packs very small
- Highly adjustable hood
- Excellent feature set
- Stretchy & Velcro cuffs
- Hipbelt-compatible pockets
- No chest pocket
- Delicate material
When it comes to water resistance, the Montbell Versalite ( men’s / women’s ) is one of our all-time favorites for thru-hiking and ultralight adventures. This is CleverHiker Founder, Dave Collins’ go-to ultralight shell for backpacking and he’s used it for thousands of miles, from the Grand Sawtooth Loop in Idaho to the Glacier Peak wilderness. Gear Analyst, Casey Handley, also loves the Versalite, and it kept her dry and well-ventilated on a very soggy 273-mile thru hike of the Long Trail in Vermont.
If you’re looking for a truly airy shell to stay dry in short summer storms, this is the one. The men’s Versalite weighs a jaw-dropping 6.4 ounces, and the women’s is only 5.8 ounces. For perspective, that’s approximately the weight of two protein bars. And, it packs down to a very small package – about 3 by 3 by 5 inches – so this model easily slips into any pack without taking up much space.
Despite its incredibly low weight, the Versalite is as feature-rich as any jacket on this list. We love the three-way, super-adjustable hood and tall neck, the combination elastic and Velcro cuffs, and the extra long pit zips for dialed-in ventilation. The oversized hand pockets are higher up on the body to give unrivaled accessibility to pockets while wearing a climbing harness or thick backpack hipbelt, so you won’t have to unclip your backpack while walking to reach your chapstick or phone.
As with most ultralight gear, the Versalite sacrifices durability. It’s made with thin, featherlight materials, so you’ll have to be more careful with it than you would with a burlier jacket. It is also a little more crinkly and noisy than others. That said, we’ve been using this jacket for years without any notable issues and we think the dramatic weight savings makes it one of the best choices for long-distance backpacking.
While it’s on the spendy side, the Versalite is a very competitive price for a premium ultralight jacket. We highly recommend the Versalite to anyone who is looking for a minimalist layer with maximum functionality for a very low weight.
Zpacks Vertice
Breathable ultralight jacket
Price: $299
Weight: 5.75 oz. (men’s) / 5.7 oz. (women’s)
- Adjustable sleeves, hem & hood
- Hood rolls away
- Fit accommodates layers well
- Excellent coverage
- No handwarmer pockets
- Oversized hood works best with hat
- Less durable
The Zpacks Vertice ( men’s / women’s ) is one of the lightest rain jackets available. Despite its featherweight status, this shell performs: it provides excellent protection in pouring rain, but remains impressively breathable. CleverHiker Senior Gear Analyst, Casey Handley, hiked the first 400 miles of the Colorado Trail in one of the wettest springs in the last decade and appreciated its long length and durability.
At about six ounces, the Vertice is in a league with the Montbell Versalite and the Outdoor Research Helium for ultralight jackets. Like the others, this one packs up incredibly small, so it’s ideal for long day hikes and thru-hikes where space and weight are the top priority.
The length of the Vertice is what sets it apart: this model is long enough to cover your bum, which is convenient when taking breaks on wet rocks or logs. It also means the seat of your shorts or pants won’t bear the brunt of the runoff from your jacket, so you’ll stay a little warmer when it’s wet out, and hopefully dry a bit faster.
The Vertice doesn’t skimp on any details either: ZPacks includes long pit zips, simple drawcords on the wrists, hem, and hood, and a handy mechanism for rolling up the hood when storms pass. The Vertice is also one of the most breathable jackets on our list, so it won’t cause you to overheat immediately when backpacking through the early afternoon rain.
That said, the Vertice is built for function in the backcountry, not fashion in the city. It has a baggier fit, so it’s best for larger body types and those who like a longer jacket. We also miss not having handwarmer pockets and the hood is a little floppy.
Like most ultralight gear, the Vertice is also on the spendy side, but if you want the best balance of low weight, crazy packability, and excellent coverage – this one is hard to beat. As long as you give it the care and attention it needs, the Vertice will last for thousands of miles.
Full review: Zpacks Vertice
Black Diamond Stormline Stretch
Lightweight & affordable rain jacket
Price: $180
Weight: 11.3 oz. (men’s) / 9.5 oz. (women’s)
- Less expensive
- Internal collar
- High collar & helmet compatible hood isn't for everyone
The Black Diamond StormLine Stretch jacket ( men’s / women’s ) hits the nail on the head for a great balance of affordability, high-quality construction, and useful features. If you’re looking for a savvy all-around jacket for backcountry hiking, the StormLine is up for the task.
It’s full of simple details that give it exceptional value. The long pit zips help with ventilation and the stretchy Velcro cuffs make the jacket easy to use with gloves on. The helmet-compatible hood is simple to adjust, and the tall collar is excellent at keeping out drafts and drips. We also love the wide variety of colorways available for the StormLine – whether your vibe is neon, pastel, or more muted, there’s probably a color for you.
The StormLine’s material and fit are our favorite things about it. This model offers a regular-to-slim fit, with just enough stretch and gusseted armpits for mostly unrestricted big movements. The StormLine’s aesthetic is sleek enough to wear out to dinner on a stormy summer night, or for keeping you dry while setting up your tent in a misty frontcountry site.
However, this jacket is a bit further down the list largely because of its pocket design. We found the handwarmer pockets are a bit shallow, and positioned too low to access with a backpack or harness on. This model also doesn’t include a chest pocket.
Overall, the StormLine is a highly functional and attractive jacket that packs easily into an impressively small package for portability. Because of the thoughtful design and the affordable price point, the StormLine is one of the most well-rounded rain jackets on the market.
REI Flash Stretch
High value rain jacket
Price: $169
Weight: 1 lb. 1 oz. (men’s) / 14.5 oz. (women’s)
- Excellent stretch
- Easy to layer
- Chest zipper
- Long pit zips
- High zippers compatible with harness
- Baggy / oversized fit
- Short visor on hood
- Long sleeves
- Heavy / bulky for extended trips
The REI Flash Stretch Rain Jacket ( men’s / women’s ) is an ultra stretchy and feature-forward jacket with a stellar balance of affordability and quality.
REI doesn’t skimp on any of our favorite features with the Flash Stretch: pit zips are plenty long enough to dump heat when you’re out of breath and moving through an afternoon rainstorm, and the hood offers three-way adjustments for a nuanced fit even while wearing a hat or helmet. It includes high-position handwarmer pockets for easy access while using a backpack, plus a large chest pocket for small storage. We also like that all the zippers have wide rain flaps to block the rain from dripping in.
We find the Flash Stretch is as cozy as rain jackets get. The polyester and spandex blend feels soft against the skin, and brushed polyester patches at the collar and chin are a nice touch when the hood is up and chilly wind is blasting. This jacket quickly became one of our go-tos for protection on short day hikes simply because it’s so comfortable.
The fit is baggier compared to other jackets, so it’s best for those who prefer a relaxed fit. However, the Flash Stretch is a perfect candidate for adding insulation layers – there’s plenty of room for a puffy or mid-layer underneath, and you won’t sacrifice a bit of extra mobility for that added warmth.
One drawback is that this jacket is one of the heaviest and bulkiest we tested. A smidge over a pound for the men’s Large makes the Flash Stretch one of our last picks for multi-day backpacking trips. That said, this REI model is a great option for daily wear and day hikes where weight isn’t a huge concern.
However, between the soft material, durable build, and excellent waterproofing, the Flash Stretch is a great option for everyday wear, whether you’re at an outdoor concert or heading into a rainy weekend of camping.
Outdoor Research Helium
Most affordable ultralight rain jacket
Price: $170 (men’s) / $180 (women’s)
Weight: 6.2 oz. (men’s) / 6.3 oz. (women’s)
- Packs down very small
- Key clip in hand pocket
- Angled chest pocket
- Handwarmer pockets in women’s version
- Adjustable hood
- No pit zips
- No hand pockets in men’s version
- No cuff tightening systems
When it comes to ultralight jackets, the Outdoor Research Helium ( men’s / women’s ) is one of the most practical options on the market. While it weighs almost the same as the ZPacks Vertice and the Montbell Versalite – just over six ounces – it’s less expensive and offers many of the same features.
CleverHiker Managing Editor, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, hiked the 3,000-mile Continental Divide Trail in this jacket and it held up well in most storms with plenty of room underneath for a lightweight down puffy. CH Gear Analyst, Heather Eldridge, also spent a week backpacking in Glacier National Park with this jacket and had no complaints – it kept both of them dry, comfortable enough, and it took up little space.
The Helium has a large chest pocket that makes access to small items easy and fast. This pocket is also the carrying case for the Helium, and it packs down into one of the smallest, most efficient packages on this list, perfect for backpacking and fastpacking.
This jacket is fairly thin and will wet out faster than others in really heavy rain, especially where backpack straps sit. Also, the men’s version doesn’t have handwarmer pockets, which we’ve found inconvenient on and off trail. This isn’t a dealbreaker for us, but we’d prefer the extra storage like the women’s version – instead, we bring waterproof gloves on cold, wet trips.
All-in-all, you cannot beat the price-to-weight ratio of the Helium. If keeping your overall pack weight low on long summer hikes is important to you, or you need a basic layer for cloudbursts and occasional summer storms, the ultra-packable Helium offers a stellar bang for your buck.
Full review: Outdoor Research Helium
Marmot Precip Eco
Affordable & versatile rain jacket
Price: $120
Weight: 11 oz. (men’s) / 9 oz. (women’s)
- Stowable hood
- Storm flaps over zipper help keep moisture out
- Higher pockets for hipbelt
- Internal laminate lining is less durable
- Hood isn’t as adjustable
- Zipper pulls are small
- Wets out faster than more durable options
If you’re looking for a less expensive jacket for summer storms, the Marmot Precip Eco ( men’s / women’s ) offers a practical design, reliable water protection, and stylish colorways.
This Marmot model has plenty of features we look for in a quality rain jacket. The wide storm flap over the zipper helps keep moisture out. The internal collar is tall, and the wrap-around hood design offers a bit of extra protection when wind and rain are picking up. The hood rolls up and stows away and like other jackets on this list, it packs up into itself.
Some jackets are simply too technical-looking to transition easily into everyday life, but not the Precip Eco. This stylish jacket fits right in on the sidelines of your kids’ soccer game or a morning coffee date, but still lends an efficient, water-resistant layer when storms are moving through. We love the retro colorways Marmot offers, but the Precip also comes in neons, solids, and muted shades to compliment any style.
It performs well in light and medium rain, which makes it ideal for three-season storms. CH Gear Analyst, Casey Handley, used the Precip on her thru-hike of the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail and it saw a ton of use. She stayed reliably dry for the first 1,000 miles and then began to wet out faster than other jackets on this list.
The cons of the Precip mostly come down to long-term durability. We find the fabric of this Marmot model is a bit noisy, the laminate lining begins to crack and flake after a few seasons, and reapplications of DWR are needed sooner than later. That said, for only $120, this Marmot classic is wallet-friendly and still gets the job done on trail.
If you’re looking for a functional, no-frills rain jacket to stay relatively dry in summer storms around town and your local woods, the Precip Eco is a fine choice. We highly recommend it for those whose top priorities are saving weight, space, and money.
What’s Most Important to You in a Rain Jacket?
If you spend a lot of time outdoors in wet conditions, paying a bit more for a rain jacket with an accurate, cozy fit and high-quality materials is well worth the cost. That said, there are many wallet-friendly jackets that will keep you dry and comfortable in most wet conditions. Below, we recommend rain jackets at a variety of price points to suit every budget.
Best value rain jackets
- Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Men’s / Women’s
- Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Men’s / Women’s
- Montbell Versalite Men’s / Women’s
- REI Flash Stretch Men’s / Women’s
- Black Diamond StormLine Stretch Men’s / Women’s
Best budget rain jackets
- REI Rainier Men’s / Women’s
- Marmot PreCip Eco Men’s / Women’s
- Outdoor Research Helium Men’s / Women’s
Best high-end rain jackets
- Arc’teryx Beta Men’s / Women’s
- ZPacks Vertice Men’s / Women’s
You don’t have to settle for an uncomfortable, restrictive, or plastic-feeling rain jacket. There are so many great options that are designed with fit, movement, layering, and next-to-skin comfort in mind. We highly recommend trying on as many rain jackets as you’re able to to find the right balance of comfort and functionality for you.
Most comfortable rain jackets
- REI Flash Stretch Men’s / Women’s
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
When you’re hiking, it’s a good idea to carry a rain jacket even if the weather looks clear, especially when venturing into remote areas. In fair-weather conditions, an ultralight jacket that hardly takes up any room in your pack is all you need to provide emergency, “just-enough” protection. If the forecast calls for sustained rain or afternoon storms, and you’ll likely be wearing your jacket for much of the trip, a light- to mid-weight jacket can be worth the extra bulk and weight for peace of mind.
Best ultralight rain jackets
- Zpacks Vertice Men’s / Women’s
Best lightweight rain jackets
- Outdoor Research Foray II – Men’s / Aspire II – Women’s
Best midweight rain jackets
If low bulk and keeping your overall pack weight to minimum is your number one priority, ultralight rain jackets are the way to go. However, they tend to be more delicate than heavier options. Though durability, comfort, and bomb-proof weather protection come with a bigger weight penalty, a heavier-duty jacket may be more important when it comes to everyday wear or when you’re headed into particularly rugged backcountry terrain.
Most durable rain jackets
BREATHABILITY
Many rain jackets advertise that they’ve got the latest most “breathable” vapor barrier on the market, but the truth is, you’ll get hot and sweaty if you do vigorous exercise in any of them. That’s why we choose rain jackets with features that allow for excellent ventilation, like large pit zips and hem drawcords when we want a surefire way to release moisture and heat while staying cool on trail.
Best rain jackets with pit zips
- Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Women’s
- Marmot Precip Eco Men’s / Women’s
Marmot Bantamweight – Photo Credit: Dave Collins (CleverHiker.com)
Black Diamond Stormline Stretch – Photo Credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)
REI Rainier – Photo Credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)
Photo Credit: Dave Collins (CleverHiker.com)
Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic – Photo Credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)
Montbell Versalite – Photo Credit: Heather Eldridge (CleverHiker.com)
Montbell Versalite – Photo Credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com)
REI XeroDry GTX – Photo Credit: Dave Collins (CleverHiker.com)
Critical Rain Jacket Considerations
Number of layers.
The number of layers in a rain jacket correlates to price and long-term efficacy. Here is what you can expect with each layer:
2-layer jackets are the most common and affordable. They’re typically constructed with an outer shell coated in a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) combined with a breathable liner.
2.5-layer jackets are usually the lightest rain jackets and are made with the same DWR-coated outer as 2-layer options. The inner layer of a 2.5-layer jacket is typically a thin polyurethane coating that helps keep sweat and dirt from clogging the breathable pores of the jacket from the inside.
3-layer jackets are the most effective in heavy moisture and they incorporate all of these elements: they have a DWR-coated outer shell, a breathable and waterproof mid-layer, and a polyurethane lining for the innermost layer. They also tend to be the heaviest.
Zippered openings at the armpits, aka pit zips, are great for letting excess heat escape if you get too warm while hiking uphill or being active. It’s always nice to have the option for more airflow when you’re sweating through a tough ascent in a deluge or feeling a bit too warm during a misty afternoon on trail.
CONDENSATION
If you’re wearing a rain jacket on a cold, rainy day, condensation will almost certainly form on the inside fabric. This leads many people to think that their rain gear is failing, even though it’s still waterproof and very much doing its job. If your jacket is new or has been well-maintained over its life, don’t worry too much if you feel wetness forming inside your jacket. The chances are very high it’s just trapped condensation, and it will evaporate with your body heat as long as you’re wearing appropriate wicking layers underneath and you maximize the ventilation.
How To Stay Cool & Dry In A Rain Jacket
Getting hot and sweating when you’re working hard in a rain jacket is inevitable, and condensation build-up in chilly conditions is very normal and to be expected. Here are our top tips for staying cool and dry in your new rain jacket:
- Start cold – We recommend a single base layer under your rain jacket, especially if you hike quickly, or will be heading uphill right out of the gate. Using your go-to lightweight wool / synthetic t-shirt or base layer top under your rain jacket will feel cold at first, but you’ll find that it takes just a few minutes of movement before you start to warm up.
- Ventilate – You can quickly and easily dump heat through the pit zips, bottom hem, wrist cuffs, and front zipper. Finding the right amount of breathability is key, so consider taking a bit of time while hiking to make the micro-adjustments that will keep you cool and comfortable.
- Slow down – Moderating your pace will slow your heart rate and reduce sweating. If you find yourself a bit too warm or your jacket beginning to “wet out”, consider slowing your steps.
- Drink water – Drinking cold water regularly will cool you from the inside out. Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you don’t need to hydrate, so be sure to drink up while you trudge through that tempest.
- Shed layers – When you’re hiking, temperature regulation is simply a layering game. If you find yourself overheating – or getting too cold – consider taking off or putting on a hat and gloves or a wicking mid-layer.
- Use rain pants – No waterproof clothing system is truly complete without quality rain pants. Check out our guide to the Best Rain Pants for our favorites.
- Waterproof footwear – For wet days and soggy hiking adventures, you’ll want to be waterproof from head to toe. Consider picking up a pair of waterproof hiking boots ( Men’s / Women’s ), hiking shoes ( Men’s / Women’s ), or rain boots ( Men’s / Women’s ) to keep your feet dry.
- Umbrella – Consider using a hiking umbrella not as a replacement for a jacket, but in addition. This is a great way to mitigate how wet your outer layers become, helps direct unrelenting rain away from you while moving, and offers unrivaled breathability on moist, warm, and hot days.
Honorable Mentions
You never know if this diamond in the rough might be perfect rain jacket for you:
Frogg Toggs Xtreme Lite ( Men’s / Women’s )
The Frogg Toggs Xtreme Lite jacket is inexpensive and serviceable. As thru-hikers, backpackers, and peak baggers, our team of gearheads knows that sometimes the lightest, cheapest gear really is enough – and that’s the space where this jacket lives.
For only $60, the Xtreme Lite offers the core features we want in our top hiking rain jackets: handwarmer pockets, and adjustable wrists, hem, and hood. On top of that, this model packs into itself and weighs only 10 ounces. CleverHiker Gear Analyst, Casey Handley, carried Frogg Toggs as her outer shell for the northern 500 miles of the Arizona Trail. The Xtreme Lite functioned as a windbreaker in the cold wind, and a just-in-case layer for a rare desert downpour, and it was fine for both uses.
Though The Xtreme Lite is simply not as durable, breathable, waterproof, well-fitting, or feature-rich compared to the jackets above, it has its place. If you’re looking for an inexpensive jacket for mild conditions and arid places with occasional cloud bursts, Frogg Toggs are a solid option.
Best Ponchos
If your top priorities are full coverage and low weight, a poncho can be a great piece of gear. They are perfect when light or occasional rain is the norm. Though they can fall short when it comes to warmth and durability, a poncho might just be the right pick for you.
Outdoor Products Multipurpose Poncho
The Outdoor Products Multipurpose Poncho does everything we want a poncho to do. A simple drawstring hood cinches around your face, and a waterproof, seam-sealed, billowy body keeps your head and torso dry while offering plenty of breathability and freedom of movement for your arms. We like that the Multipurpose Poncho weighs nine ounces, folds down super small, and comes with a mesh zippered carrying case.
It’s fast to deploy and offers just enough coverage for your body when a downpour hits. Because this poncho is so lightweight, it also dries fast. For only $35, it’s a small and durable investment for the next time you’re caught in a brief rain shower or need a bit of extra coverage while setting up camp in the backcountry.
Packa Poncho
The Packa Poncho is a hybrid jacket, pack cover, and poncho. The Packa is a regular poncho – featuring a simple hood with the same extended material in front – but it adds a large, articulated back to also cover your backpack. For distance backpackers and thru-hikers dreaming of an all-in-one rain cover when rain storms hit, the Packa might just be what you’re after.
Several impressive, unique details solve many common poncho problems: massive sleeves slip on easily over other layers (and feature massive 20-inch pit zips to throw heat), and the hem and wrists have drawstrings to prevent billowing material. We’re especially smitten with the fact that you can put on the entire poncho in less than 30 seconds without taking off our packs.
Though it’s a bit heavy and bulky to store – between 13 and 18 ounces, depending on the fabric you choose, and it’s a bit pricey for a poncho, it is a unique and dynamic product, that’s worth every penny.
Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape Poncho
For ultralight hikers who want the ultimate 2-in-1, the Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape Poncho doubles as a shelter. This model is both a solid, reliable tarp that uses guy lines and a hiking pole for nights on the trail where protection is key, and a serviceable poncho for when summer rain storms start building and you’ve got miles to go.
However, combination gear always involves trade-offs. The Gatewood is made of a thin sil-nylon that’s prone to ripping and tearing, so you’ll need to be extra careful when wearing it near underbrush or places where it can snag. While we love the weight savings of the Gatewood Cape’s dual functionality, we learned the hard way that it is only a pro until you’re trying to set it up as a shelter while it’s raining. And, the Gatewood takes some practice to pitch, so you’ll want to have it down ahead of time.
We’ve seen the ultra-versatile Gatewood gaining traction out on the trails more and more over the last few years, and for good reason – when it comes to a rainproof option and lightweight shelter for a low price, the Gatewood Cape Poncho is tough to beat.
Best umbrellas
An umbrella is one of the most overlooked pieces of rain gear on the trail. Though it’s not a replacement for a quality rain jacket, it can be a real game changer when combined with one. Staying dry (and therefore warm) is essential to your well-being, and for a small weight penalty, you get incredible versatility from umbrellas like the ones below.
Though umbrellas fall short in high winds and lightning, they are a very worthwhile addition in both scorching desert heat and pouring rain.
Gossamer Gear Lightrek Umbrella
The Gossamer Gear Lightrek Umbrella is a robust ultralight umbrella with a shiny, sun-shielding exterior. CleverHiker Managing Editor, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, used the Lightrek on his thru-hike of the 3,000-mile Continental Divide Trail as a complement to his rain jacket and it was an absolute game-changer. It was a vital piece of gear not only for all-day protection from the sun but in the early season snow, heavy rain, and hail of the high Rockies.
We’re big fans of the Lightrek’s chromatic outer layer, which keeps intense UV rays and mid-day desert heat away from the user, and it can even help lower the temperature underneath. This umbrella also has pack attachment straps (sold separately) and stores narrow (but long) in your pack.
We’ve found the Lightrek excels in all conditions except for sustained high winds – but to be fair, it’s plenty durable for a 6.3-ounce umbrella. This thing will last for years if you take proper care of it, and we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it for long adventures in rain or shine. For only $39, the Lightrek is a bargain.
Six Moon Designs Rain Walker Umbrella
At 5.5 ounces, the Rain Walker Umbrella is a low-bulk and efficient ultralight umbrella. If you’re looking for serious coverage at the lowest weight possible, the Rain Walker is a great choice: at full size, it easily covers one hiker and their backpack from the elements. CleverHiker Gear Analyst, Heather Eldridge, uses the Rain Walker for local hikes in Oregon.
Thanks to flexible, wind-resistant ribs, the closed umbrella packs up ultra-thin – barely the diameter of a quarter – and collapses down to about two feet. It’s easy to store, fast to deploy, and we love the soft EVA handle for holding over a long time. Plus, Six Moon also offers attachments for securing your umbrella to the shoulder strap of your backpack so you can hike hands-free.
The downside of the Rain Walker is it’s a bit less durable than other options on the market, and it doesn’t come with a reflective outer layer. If sun shade is a priority for your umbrella, we highly recommend the Silver Shadow or the Silver Shadow Carbon by Six Moon as well.
Zpacks Lotus UL Umbrella
The ZPacks Lotus has a strong and balanced construction. It also offers the widest diameter of these three umbrellas at a whopping 38 inches, which provides a ton of shade and rain protection.
We really like the attachment method (sold separately) for the Lotus umbrella. Instead of two stretchy ties, one of the “holsters” is a low-bulk clip that attaches directly to the strap of your backpack. We find that this design offers more stability for the umbrella, and needs less tweaking and adjusting over time.
That said, the Lotus itself is the most flimsy in wind compared to the other umbrellas on this list. We find a sudden breeze can dramatically strain the ribs under the material. The handle is also small and less comfortable. However, the Lotus is an outstanding option for long-distance treks: its chromatic exterior will reflect the sun’s heat, it packs small and is under seven ounces.
Why trust us?
We fully understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously. Here are some of the reasons you can trust us:
- Our choices are completely independent and based on personal experience.
- We’ve logged over 10,000 trail miles and test outdoor gear for a living.
- We own and field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
- We travel to industry trade shows to learn about upcoming product innovations.
- We constantly update our guides when new products launch.
- We treat our recommendations as if they were for our family and friends.
- We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to constructive criticism. If you think we’ve missed a product or got something wrong, we’d love to hear your feedback.
Need more Apparel advice?
How To Wash A Rain Jacket and Pants
10 Tips for Hiking & Backpacking in the Rain
7 Best Rain Pants of 2024
10 Best Fleece Jackets of 2024
7 Best Base Layers of 2024
10 Best Hiking Leggings & Tights of 2024
7 Best Sun Shirts of 2024
10 Best Down Jackets of 2024
Best Rain Boots for Men of 2024
The 7 Best Rain Boots for Women of 2024
Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket & Pants Review
10 Campfire Safety Tips
Get the best content from cleverhiker & around the backpacking world.
Social media is great, but our bi-weekly newsletter is a much better way to stay in the know.
Sign up to get our curated emails with the best content from CleverHiker and around the backpacking world. You’ll be turned on to new videos, trip reports, gear reviews, inspiring outdoor stories and much more. So get in the mix!
Travel Raincoats for Women to Keep You Stylishly Dry
Cold Weather Tips , FASHION , Sweaters & Jackets , Travel Clothing
Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!
Travel raincoats for women don’t need to be utilitarian, especially if you’re not planning an outdoorsy trip. Take a look at these stylish and Insta-friendly water-resistant jackets!
Travel Raincoats for Women
Table of contents.
There are all different kinds of weather that you might come across in your travels, and it’s important that your travel wardrobe is prepared. One important piece of your travel wardrobe, especially if you’re planning on traveling in a wetter climate or during the rainy season, is a cute rain jacket.
We’ve compiled a list of our favorite raincoats, from warm jackets to coats that are good at breaking the wind and even a few cute raincoats with hoods. Whatever your style and wherever your destination, there’s packable lightweight raincoat for you.
From budget to luxury, keep reading to find one that best suits you!
Best Travel Raincoats for Women
TFG APPROVED! Eddie Bauer Women’s Charly Jacket
Editor-In-Chief Favorite: Eddie Bauer Travel Raincoat
The Eddie Bauer Charly Jacket is a huge reader and editor-in-chief favorite. The StormRepel technology will keep you dry and the breathable lining means you won’t feel soggy or stuffy.
The huge front pockets with both side and top access mean you can easily grab things in the middle of a storm, like gloves, and the adjustable cuffs will keep rain out.
Super packable, but also cute with the adjustable waist which cinches and gives a feminine feel. Comes in sizes XS to XXL in Eddie Bauer or Amazon .
Read this review to learn why we and our readers rave about Eddie Bauer’s waterproof jackets, particularly the Charly Jacket.
Calvin Klein Packable Rain Coat available in sizes from XS-XL
Packable Raincoat for Travel: Calvin Klein
Calvin Klein makes quality jackets, and its packable anorak raincoat is the perfect everywhere piece. It provides a slimming and classic look.
This Calvin Klein raincoat is made of polyester, making it machine washable (bonus!) and waterproof. It has adjustable cuffs with a stand-up collar, hideaway hood, and two slash pockets.
It is pure packable perfection, which is why we love this Calvin Klein raincoat so much. If you’re looking for the perfect in-between season coat with a waterproof design, then this casual but dressy jacket is for you. You can wear it in cold air or during the rain, and you’ll stay warm and dry.
While these packable raincoats for travel will keep you from getting too cold in nippy weather, they also can be used in warmer weather climates and is especially good for in-between seasons.
It has a nice, slightly shaped design, but its tailoring stylishly dresses the jacket up, making it great for a business trip. And while it’s lightweight, it’s also waterproof. Wear it as a London raincoat, with a little black dress for dinner out, or keep it casual with flats for sightseeing in Paris !
Cole Haan Back Bow Packable Hooded Raincoat available in sizes from XS-3XL Plus
Travel Packable Raincoat: Cole Haan
Cole Haan’s Travel Rain Jacket is an investment piece that will take you through the seasons. Wear it in the rain or as a light coat during colder seasons.
This Cole Haan packable raincoat is a great windbreaker that you can use for intermittent rain. However, this cute raincoat is not a winter coat, so if the days get a bit nippier, you might have to layer to beat the weather.
Cole Haan is one of the best brands for raincoats, and this lightweight, packable jacket shows why. It has a drawstring that makes the fit flattering, pockets with flaps to give a little added protection for your goods, and is perfect for those cool misty days.
Pack one of these fashion raincoats on your trip to beautiful Bruges. The navy blue never loses its chic appeal! It’s also available in petite size, too!
See what our readers ranked as the best packable rain jacket to travel with!
Helly Hansen Wesley II Jacket available in sizes from XS-XL here
Stylish Women’s Raincoat: Helly Hansen
Every neutral wardrobe needs a hint of color, so let Helly Hansen’s Wesley Jacket make you stand out.
This is one of the best raincoats for travel. It’s got a hood that can be stowed in the collar, a storm flap, and zippered side pockets, with a protective chin flap for extra coverage. It has snap buttons and is machine washable. Plus, it’s definitely packable and rolls into a small, lightweight package.
Don’t get flushed out by the muted tones of the season, choose one of the five adorable colors these cute rain jackets come in. This classic hue is a stunner and a nice sophsticaged touch for a trip in spring or a cold summer.
Learn my hacks to pack carry-on only using packing cubes !
Marmot Essential Women’s Lightweight Waterproof Raincoat available in sizes from XS-XL
Lightweight Raincoat for Travel: Marmot Essential
Are you headed to a particularly wet climate? Then looking into an everyday women’s raincoat might be the best option for you. As far as everyday goes, the best raincoat for travel might be the Marmot Essential Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket .
This waterproof raincoat is both breathable and packable. It has taped seams to ensure it’s weatherproof. Its long length helps keep the rain out, and the water droplets slide right off the plain weave nylon material.
It has zippered pockets to protect your stuff and pit zips to help you regulate the internal temperature underneath. This lightweight womens raincoat is not necessarily built for the deepest winters, but if you’re headed to a cooler climate and experience a nippy day, you can layer underneath.
If you’re looking for what to wear in Italy in May and the forecast is predicting rain, then this might just be the jacket for you!
Check out these cute rain boots for your next trip!
Columbia Splash A Little™ Rain Jacket available in sizes from XS-XL and 1X-3X here
Best Brand for Raincoats: Columbia
Columbia makes one of the best travel raincoats for women with the Splash A Little raincoat. Both fashionable and functional, this stylish raincoat is perfect for a rainy jaunt through a European city.
You can pack light stylishly with this packable rain coat, because it’s made of polyester and is machine washable. It’s shell is both waterproof, with its full seamed seal, and breathable, making it great for heading out on a rainy hike.
These minimalist travel raincoats for women by Columbia are a nice addition to your clothing for rain wardrobe. Made with a storm hood, adjustable cuffs, and a modern classic fit, you can definitely play in the rain with this on!
Plus, there is an interior security pocket that’s great for travel. It’s one of the great women’s fashion raincoats with a flattering fit that has the ability for light layering and does a pretty decent job breaking the wind.
The Columbia is a great summer raincoat with a classic yet neutral print and a great design. In fact, you can find one that fits the bill if you’re looking for a classic women’s yellow raincoat!
Columbia Arcadia Ii Waterproof Breathable Jacket with Packable Hood available in sizes from XS-3XL here
Packable Rain Jacket : Columbia
If the Columbia Splash A Little Raincoat isn’t warm enough for you, but you’re still loving the brand, then the Columbia Arcadia Ii Waterproof Breathable Jacket with Packable Hood might be a better fit.
This Columbia style is still one of the more packable raincoats for travel, but it’s a tad bit heavier with its heat thermal, reflective, and insulated style. It’s built specifically for going on an adventure with its travel and media pockets.
The fit is great due to the removable belt that gives you a choice for a more feminine look. And it features a cute ring of fur around the hood that can be detached, depending on the look you’re going for.
This is a great warm and stylish raincoat that has lots of pockets for organization that can double as a winter coat.
Wouldn’t you love to have this fashionable wet-weather coat on your trip to Rome this winter? Gotta have a little faux-fur in your life, and this coat gives it just right!
Joules Golightly Printed Packable Waterproof Rain Coat available in sizes from 2-16
Cute Rain Jackets : Joules Golightly
Sometimes a simple raincoat isn’t enough, and you need something more whimsical for the colder weather travel days. If you’re looking for the best travel raincoat with a little extra flair, then the Joules Golightly Coat is a great choice.
This lightweight stylish raincoat is packable and breathable, sealing in comfort with taped seams, a neck cowl, and a hood with adjustable drawstring.
These stylish raincoats come in several fun colors and feature a regular fit that you can do some layering underneath.
Eddie Bauer Women’s Girl On The Go Insulated Trench Coat available in sizes from XS-3X
Best Raincoat for Travel: Eddie Bauer
Looking for a packable trench coat? Eddie Bauer is one of the best brands for raincoats, and the Girl On The Go Insulated Trench Coat is no exception.
This classic women’s trench coat is a classic fit — not too form fitting and not too loose, with princess seams for a slimming and flattering fit. The fit also means you can add a few layers for extra warmth.
This is one of the better travel raincoats for women due to the secure zip pockets, one internally and two externally. Plus it’s packable! You can use it in either warmer or cooler weather.
This versatile travel raincoat has a two-way front zip with a storm flap so you can unzip a little from the bottom to sit down or even move better. Also available on Eddie Bauer website.
Here are a few trench coat styles to inspire your travel wardrobe this season!
Fjällräven Stina Jacket available in sizes from XXS-XL
Fashionable Rain Jacket: Fjällräven
With a sleek, cropped look and the functionality of a sturdy raincoat, it’s hard to go wrong with the Stina Jacket by Fjällräven !
This lightweight women’s raincoat is made of a combination of polyester and cotton. It’s durable and water-resistant with a full-zip closure that has some pretty accent details.
It’s an elegant, figure-flattering stylish rain jacket. It has feminine styling and a flattering fit that’s perfect for those chilly spring and fall days. But while it works for layering, it doesn’t quite fit the bill for a winter coat.
We adore the many fashionable details of this piece, ranging from its cuffs to its beautifully high collar. The Stina comes in four different shades but be warned — it’ll definitely be hard to pick just one! You can also shop for it at Nordstrom and Zappos , too!
Summer Raincoat: Cole Haan Short Rain Jacket available in sizes from XS-XL
Summer Raincoat: Cole Haan Short Rain Jacket
Cute, functional, and budget-friendly — if that checks all of your travel raincoat boxes then check out the Cole Haan Short Rain Jacket .
This waterproof hooded raincoat is made of polyester, so it is machine washable. It has an adjustable sleeve opening to help keep the bad weather out.
This darling piece is both cute and functional, with a water-resistant coating that’ll come in handy for those rainy days ahead. It’s lightweight, breathable, and an easy item to throw over just about anything.
Arcteryx Atom Raincoat available in sizes from XXS-XXL
Waterproof Hoody: Arcteryx
For a city-style packable raincoat, the Arcteryx Atom Coat is the choice for you!
This lightweight coat gives complete weather protection — it’s waterproof, windproof, and breathable. It’s built with durable CORELOFT fabric that’s comfortable and keeps the rain and wind off you.
The Arcteryx raincoat for travel is perfect for wandering the streets of Stockholm on a rainy day. It’s sleek and stylish with concealed zippers. And you can get it in a series of different neutral but standard colors.
Pair this light-colored raincoat with comfortable but sleek legging-style pants from Zara and a black pair of Nike free trainers for a city cool-but-casual sightseeing outfit.
While this stylish raincoat leaves room for layers to keep you warm, the fit is still comfortable and not bulky. It’s perfect for wet days in urban environments and works well with every look!
These rainy day outfits for travel won’t let you down!
Marmot PreCip Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket available in sizes from XS-XXL
Travel Raincoats for Women: Marmot
All rain coat, no frills. The Marmot PreCip is the perfect packable raincoat if you’re looking for a classic no bells and whistles model.
The Marmot is a bit more on the casual style, but the feminine seams make the fit flattering. It’s got a high-quality build, both waterproof and breathable with tapered seams that help prevent leaks.
This lightweight jacket is perfect for hiking, climbing, cycling, or any other activity when rain might be a slight problem. It has an attached adjustable hood that can be rolled into the collar for use when you don’t need it. Not to mention, the Marmot folds perfectly for travel.
It’s your everywhere jacket, fitting to use wherever you are — at home or on the road. You’ll never run out of style with this versatile coat.
Marmot Lea Jacket available in sizes from XS-XL
Lightweight Women’s Raincoat: Marmot
Marmot is one of my favorite outdoor brands. Its quality gear is made to last, and the Marmot Lea Jacket is no exception. These travel raincoats for women are more than just the average waterproof jacket.
This is one of those stylish women’s raincoats made for spring’s fickle conditions. It’s both a waterproof raincoat with its seam-sealed fabric and built to keep you warm in cooler climates with its two-layered fabric.
It is a waterproof hooded raincoat with adjustable cuffs and an internal zippered pocket to protect your more valuable things. And it has an attached hood that can be tucked away when you’re not using it.
The dark purple would look fantastic against the gray backdrop of Buckingham Palace or even throw on the dark arctic navy for a visit to the Eiffel Tower. You can sport feminine style even when function is top priority!
If you need something a little thicker for those colder weather travel days, opt for the Chelsea Coat . This waterproof down raincoat is comfortable, light, yet heavy duty. This fashionable find will keep you warm, even when it’s freezing outside on those cold and windy days.
You’ll always stay chic and cozy in this down raincoat , so be sure to bring this on your Icelandic tour — take me to the Blue Lagoon!
North Face Antora Jacket available in sizes from XS-3X
Classic Travel Raincoat: The North Face
The North Face is one of the best travel brands, and we love the Antora raincoat. Check out this classic stylish raincoat!
These packable raincoats for travel keep you both warm and dry, so you’re shielded from the elements — both winter and rain. It’s great for layering, too, if you need a little additional warmth. Plus, it comes in an array of cute colors.
Similar to the trench coat, it can be worn in various destinations and is both functional and travel-friendly. With a simple and classic appearance, this can be thrown over any casual look!
Get more rain coverage with the best travel umbrella recommendations!
Cole Haan Signature Trench Coat available in sizes from XS-XL
Waterproof Trench Coat: Cole Haan
The Cole Haan Water-Resistant Trench is one of the best stylish women’s raincoats on the market, and a TFG reader fave!
This classic trench coat presents an air of urban chic that’s ready to fight cool rainy weather with its fabric, cozy cotton lining, and protective wind flaps. It features belted cuffs, a removable hood, and a belt to create a little feminine definition.
This is the ultimate classic, double-breasted trench coat and a worthy investment piece. The khaki or black color matches any outfit; pair this with straight leg jeans as you glide through the streets of Paris .
Travel Raincoats for Women Comparison Chart
Where do you find the best travel raincoats for women? Please share below!
For more travel jackets, please read:
- Best Winter Parkas
- Packable Down Jackets
- Cozy Women’s Wool Coats
- Most Recommended Waterproof Jackets for Every Adventure
LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!
We hope you liked this post on stylish travel raincoats for women. Please share this post with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
42 comments.
Bought the Eddie Bauer Girl on the Go and went to Ireland. What a great coat! So happy with it!
Petite ladies or short waisted Eddie Bauer Girl on the go comes in Petite cut. I ordered the regular and the petite to see what fits best. The jacket has a built in “belt” to visually give a waistline without the hassle of a belt. The petite cut hit my waist perfectly! This and the princess seams the jacket gives you shape and polished look. Also love that you can detach the hood and can confidently wear it with a dress to dinner. Absolutely love it.
I used the Columbia Arcadia jacket in Dublin this summer. It was perfect!
Disappointing to find the coats were actually jackets, excellent as they might be to keep out rain, too short to keep a skirt or dress dry.
Hi Alison, to help you in your search, I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/
It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and clothing recommendations!
So many good choices! Thanks!
Eddie Bauer insulated Girl on the Go is perfect for me. Love the length, the colors and packability! Your site is wonderful to offer easy comparison for decision-making.
I love the Golightly colors!
Love the Eddie Bauer Girl On The Go Trench! I have it in Charcoal and Black. I prefer the unlined style so I can wear it over my packable insulated coat or just as a rain layer in warmer weather. On cold days, wearing a packable down or PrimaLoft parka under this trench is toasty warm and stylish.
My favorite rain jacket is the Columbia Pardon My Trench!
That is awesome to her Diane, thank you for sharing your review of the Eddie Bauer Girl on the Go Trench jacket with us! ?
I needed to replace an old Land’s End packable windbreaker with something similar but longer. I got the Fit Packable Anorak from J Jill. It packs into itself like my old one, but it is raincoat length with an adjustable waist which allows you to resize it based on the weight of your layers underneath. It also has great pockets which allowed me to skip a purse when I didn’t want to carry one. I wore it last April/May on a 1 month trip in Europe and loved the way it looked and functioned.
Hi Liz, thank you for sharing your great review of your Anorak from J Jill with us, sounds fantastic!! Hope you had an amazing time during your trip to Europe! ?
I suggest you try Protected Species Waterproof Parka. It’s a bit pricey, but well worth the investment, especially if you’re planning to travel to England. This coat is beautiful and keeps you completely dry!
Hi Liese, thank you for sharing your recommendation for travel raincoat with us, sounds perfect! Happy travels!
Is there one rain jacket that is the number one choice and the most versatile for keeping you dry and allowing you not to sweat.
I’ve worn Full Beauty’s Taslon Anorak jacket with the zip-out liner around the world over the past three years. I also wear it here at home over winter in the rain, snow and cold down to minus 20 Celsius. I wear it with my minus 33 wool base layers, a flannel shirt and a Milwaukee heated hoodie. I spray it once a year with silicone spray. When it’s liner is removed it folds small and is light and part of my carry-on packing list. It’s a good plus size option.
Great recommendation Connie, thank you!
Some lovely coats highlited here. I have the molly scottevest, which is a shorter trench coat style that i think I’ll take with me when i travel europe for 4.5mths.
Let us know how it goes!
I’ll be spending two weeks in Ireland/Scotland this coming October (Middle of the month) for my honeymoon. I’m having a hard time trying to figure out what the best must have items to pack would be (I have a tendency to get cold easily, I’m from northern Illinois so I’m used to winter weather). I’m loving all the information on this site just feeling a little overwhelmed right now 🙂
Hey! I just came across your comment. Im going to Ireland THIS October. Any suggestion? I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed but excited too so it’s all good. Just lookin for ideas and such.
Hi Carlie, thank you for commenting!! Have a look at this article for tips for what to pack for Ireland based on the weather: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-ireland-packing-list-ideas-for-dublin/ Have a wonderful time!! 🙂
I love the red on in the top picture. Which one is that?
I was being a bit indecisive between a coral trench from M&S or a coral Regatta jacket for my upcoming cruise Oct/Nov. Looks like the trench as definitely more stylish and maybe I’ll take my ivory faux leather biker jacket just in case.
Glad we could help Rhonda! Thanks for reading!
I just got this coat I’m going to bring to South Africa ,Kruger and Namibia in January! I’ve been wearing it here with jeans and last night I wore it with a LBD for dinner out in pouring rain
That’s awesome news Tracy! Which coat did you end up getting?
All of these rain jackets are so lovely! I especially like the Marmot Gwyn Jacket. The over-sized buttons are just too cute. 🙂 My next favs would be the Burberry Trench (so classic!) and the Barbour Quilted Jacket.
They’re super cute 🙂
Thank you so much for your website! It has helped a lot for my upcoming trip to Europe. Are any of these rain coats light weight and packable enough for a summer trip to Italy and France? Thank you!
You’re welcome 🙂 A lot of these coats would be fine for a trip to Europe and some pack super light!
I have a (now discontinued) red packable Cole Haan travel raincoat that was a lifesaver for a 3 week European vacation last year. I’m sure the Cole Haan one you mentioned is the newer version, and is just as amazing. One thing I was concerned about is the wrinkle factor, and whether or not it can actually pack away into the pouch. Wrinkles fall out within minutes, and packing back up is a breeze! I’m at the point now where I throw it in my bag wherever we travel, regardless of the forecast. Highly recommend purchasing a travel rain jacket for everyone!!
That’s a great point! They’re small, packable, and convenient for a variety of trips. Thank you for your feedback 🙂
Hi Alex, Somewhere in this article a reflective heat liner was previously mentioned….but I seem to have lost it. Can you help me? I think they were referring to the reflective heat “ dots” found on the inside of some clothing, but really sounds great for the inside of a rain jacket!!! Thanks so much, Connie Q
Hi Connie, this is Rebecca TFG team member. Do you mean the Columbia Carson Pass™ II Jacket with its heat thermal, reflective, and insulated style? If so, you can read our review of it here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/columbia-jacket-review/ Happy travels! ?
It’s great to see some rain jackets that aren’t just functional but also look good.
Thankfully 🙂
It’s good to see some rain jackets that aren’t just functional but also look good.
im a big fan of the Made in New Zealand brand: Earth Sea Sky. Their Synergy Jacket took me thru Italy…keep the wind out, the rain out and would pack away in its own wee packet and stored in my small handbag.. perfect and will outlast anything!
Thanks for sharing Helene, that sounds great!
Helene, Hi, just wondered where we can find this jacket in the US? Connie
Submit a Comment Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Best Rain Jackets of 2024
An in-depth look at the top rain jackets on the market, from versatile jackets for hiking and everyday use to ultralight emergency shells.
Switchback Travel
We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us .
Here in the Pacific Northwest, we know a thing or two about rain. From months of daily drizzle to heavy downpour in the mountains, we’re acutely aware of the benefits of a quality waterproof and breathable shell. Below we break down the best rain jackets of 2024, from entry-level models for hiking and daily use to performance pieces for backpacking and climbing. For more background information, see our rain jacket comparison table and buying advice below the picks. Of note: This article includes picks for both men and women, but we’ve also written a dedicated round-up on the best women’s rain jackets .
Our Team's Rain Jacket Picks
- Best Overall Rain Jacket: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
- Best Performance Rain Jacket: Arc'teryx Beta LT
- Best Budget Rain Jacket: REI Co-op Rainier
- Best Stretchy Rain Jacket: Black Diamond StormLine Stretch
- Best Ultralight/Emergency Rain Jacket: Outdoor Research Helium Rain
Best Overall Rain Jacket
1. patagonia torrentshell 3l ($179).
Patagonia shook up the rain jacket market with the release of its Torrentshell 3L a few years ago. The jacket’s hardshell-like 3-layer construction (hence the “3L” in the name) is highly protective and durable, plus the interior’s soft-touch tricot lining boosts comfort and limits the clammy feeling that’s typical among sub-$200 rain jackets. In testing, material quality has been a common theme: Everything from the thick-toothed main zipper to the pit zips and three-way adjustable hood have a solid and reliable feel. Tack on sleek Patagonia styling, wide variety of available colorways, new-for-2023 PFC-free DWR coating (to go along with the 100%-recycled face fabric), and excellent $179 price tag, and the versatile Torrentshell 3L currently is our favorite overall rain jacket.
A notable downside of the Torrentshell’s durable construction is that it’s stiffer and crinklier than competitors like the Marmot Minimalist and Black Diamond StormLine below (it does break in and loosen up a bit over time). Additionally, you miss out on a chest pocket, and the shell isn’t a weight or packed size leader. In the end, if you want a high-performance piece for serious outdoor use, you may want to up your budget to an alternative like the Arc’teryx Beta LT below. But we think the vast majority of folks will find the Torrentshell to be a near-perfect match for everyday and light backcountry use. For its reasonable $179 MSRP, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better-made, better-looking, or more protective shell... Read in-depth review See the Men's Patagonia Torrentshell 3L See the Women's Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
Best Performance Rain Jacket
2. arc’teryx beta lt ($450).
Arc’teryx is known for top-of-the-line quality and prices to match, and the British Columbia-based brand has long been our go-to for premium weather protection. With a recent reconfiguration of their lineup, they’ve moved their rain shells away from the Zeta collection into the versatile Beta series. Combining 3-layer Gore-Tex construction with a host of technical features (including a helmet-compatible hood and pit zips), the Beta LT blurs the line between rain jacket and hardshell and delivers trustworthy performance for four-season hiking and backcountry exploring. And as we’ve come to expect from the brand, all of the Beta LT’s details are nicely sorted, with premium seam taping, streamlined seams, and a fit that is reasonably trim but roomy enough for layering.
What’s not to like with the Beta LT? Most significant is the price: At a whopping $450, it’s the most expensive rain jacket here and arguably overkill for summer backpacking or around-town use. The Beta below will save you over 3 ounces and $50, and many users will appreciate the more simplified feature set. But for skiing, climbing, or bike commuting, we appreciate the LT’s more hardwearing 40-denier shell (the Beta is 30D), and the helmet-compatible hood and pit zips are an undeniable benefit for those really getting after it. All told, if you’re looking for versatile rain and snow protection but don’t want to spring for a full-on Gore-Tex Pro hardshell, the Beta LT is hard to beat... Read in-depth review See the Men's Arc'teryx Beta LT See the Women's Arc'teryx Beta LT
Best Budget Rain Jacket
3. rei co-op rainier ($100).
REI’s in-house line of rain shells continues to impress us when it comes to bang for your buck, and the popular Rainier is no exception. Overall, we think they’ve put together a solid product: The in-house 2.5-layer construction holds up well in all-day drizzle, pit zips help keep cool you on the go, and the clean styling wears well just about anywhere. Tack on REI’s excellent warranty and a wide range of colorways and available sizes, and you get a quality rain shell for anything from city commutes to summer hiking and backpacking trips.
In testing the Rainier, we were struck with how many features it shares with Marmot’s PreCip Eco below. Everything from the REI’s hood design to pocket layout and even smaller touches like mesh pockets and the Velcro covering the center zipper reminded us of the Marmot shell. How do they differ? Most notably, we found the fit of the Rainier to be very large (depending on how you plan to layer underneath, it may be best to go down a full size). In addition, the REI has a slightly more substantial face fabric and improved comfort with a fleece-like lining covering the collar (weight goes up a bit as a result). It’s a close call between the two, but as long as you can get a good fit, we think the REI’s modest improvements in comfort and durability give it the edge. See the Men's REI Co-op Rainier See the Women's REI Co-op Rainier
Best Stretchy Rain Jacket
4. black diamond stormline stretch ($180).
Black Diamond took the plunge into the rain shell market with their StormLine. The big news is the stretchy 2.5-layer construction, which offers greater comfort than a standard rain jacket like the REI Rainier above. The interior is soft to the touch and doesn’t have the plasticky feel that you get with most traditional designs, and there’s a noticeable amount of “give” in the shell fabric. The jacket also is well equipped and competitively lightweight with two hand pockets, a coated front zipper, and an all-in weight of 10 ounces (for our men’s medium). To top it off, the StormLine is aggressively priced at $180.
Features like a helmet-compatible hood, stuff pocket, and pit zips give the StormLine a clear performance slant, but the large fit isn’t ideal for the backcountry. It’s easy to layer a puffy underneath, but the jacket was much too long and roomy for us when wearing it over a thin baselayer (sizing down can help). We found that BD’s 2-ounce-lighter FineLine jacket has a more athletic cut, but that model gives up valuable features like hand pockets, adjustable cuffs, and pit zips. One final note here: Black Diamond recently expanded the StormLine collection to include an Anorak ($155) , which boasts a half-zip front and zippered kangaroo pocket... Read in-depth review See the Men's Black Diamond StormLine See the Women's BD StormLine
Best Ultralight/Emergency Rain Jacket
5. outdoor research helium rain ($170).
A longtime ultralight favorite, Outdoor Research’s Helium Rain Jacket, was overhauled a few seasons back. The most notable update was the inclusion of Pertex’s Diamond Fuse fabric, which boosts durability and tear resistance without a weight penalty. Moreover, Outdoor Research updated the fit to a trimmer cut, and the jacket now stuffs into its exterior chest pocket. In testing the Helium Rain, we found it remains a solid ultralight/emergency piece: The 2.5-layer build and DWR coating can handle light to moderate rainfall, the adjustable hood offers good all-around coverage, and its small packed size is ideal for activities ranging from hiking and backpacking to climbing.
What are the compromises in choosing the Helium Rain? Heavy downpours can overwhelm the thin build, causing the fabric to absorb moisture and feel wet against your skin. Further, you miss out on hand pockets, which means the only storage option is the single chest pocket. Finally, it doesn’t excel for true performance use—the lining is prone to getting slippery and clammy and there are no pit zips to dump heat. But these complaints are to be expected in a sub-7-ounce shell, and the Helium Rain’s low weight and impressive packability, reasonable price, and surprisingly good toughness make it our top ultralight pick. Of note: OR also offers the 3-layer Helium AscentShell ($449) , which combines the Helium’s durable fabric with a more breathable AscentShell membrane... Read in-depth review See the Men's Outdoor Research Helium Rain See the Women's OR Helium Rain
Best of the Rest
6. outdoor research foray ii ($225).
We love what Outdoor Research has done with the Foray (and women’s Aspire), a do-it-all rain jacket that can even work as a lightweight shell for spring skiing. The popular design features a Gore-Tex Paclite waterproof laminate, smooth and comfortable interior, and tough 50-denier shell that’s both durable and highly weather-resistant. But what sets the Foray apart is its full-length side zips (called TorsoFlo) that extend from the armpit all the way to the bottom hem. When fully unzipped, this creates a poncho-like opening for awesome venting on the trail—a great way to dump excess heat while still retaining coverage.
The Foray was lightly updated last spring, and the II features a lower weight, modernized design and colorways, and availability in a wider range of sizes (S to XXXL). But the overall formula remains the same, which we’re happy to see: The venting system is functional for a number of outdoor activities, and with a relatively light weight, the jacket feels fairly nimble and multi-sport-ready. Not everyone will be a fan of the full-length side zips, but all things considered, the Foray and Aspire are excellent quiver-of-one rain jackets for the backpacker, spring skier, and daily wearer... Read in-depth review See the Men's Outdoor Research Foray II See the Women's OR Aspire II
7. Norrøna Falketind Gore-Tex Paclite ($349)
Norway-based Norrøna isn’t a household name in the U.S., but they offer a quality lineup of serious shells built for demanding backcountry pursuits. On a recent testing trip in Southern Patagonia, we fell in love with the Falketind Gore-Tex Paclite jacket, which offered reliable waterproofing alongside a fantastic fit and finish. Norrøna’s lightest and most packable waterproof jacket, the Falketind checks in at just 9.1 ounces and features a minimalist design with 20-denier nylon, one chest pocket, one chest vent, and simple adjustments at the hood, hem, and cuffs. For those looking to shave some weight from their pack without compromising weather protection, it’s a stellar choice.
The Falketind Gore-Tex Paclite is undeniably expensive at $349, especially considering it’s just a 2-layer design. As expected, breathability suffers as a result of this construction, which means the Norrøna is not our first choice for high-output activities (what’s more, the single core vent isn’t nearly as effective as pit zips). But for slower-moving pursuits, it’s a reasonable compromise, and we found ourselves reaching for the Falketind over our Storm10 (below) while alpine climbing in Patagonia—the longer cut functions better under a harness, the chest pocket provides more storage, and the soft fabric and Paclite membrane offers better freedom of movement than the Storm10’s 3-layer design... Read in-depth review See the Men's Norrøna Falketind Paclite See the Women's Norrøna Falketind Paclite
8. Marmot PreCip Eco ($100)
In the world of rain jackets, Marmot just seems to get it, delivering good fit and performance at reasonable price points. The PreCip is their leading entry-level offering that’s reached iconic status among hikers, backpackers, and everyday wearers. For years, the formula has stayed largely the same: proven 2.5-layer waterproof construction that does well in light to moderate conditions, seam taping, and reasonable weight. You also get useful backcountry features like pit zips and a stuff pocket, and its adjustable hood provides full coverage in a rainstorm. For $100, there’s not much more you can ask for from a rain shell.
Marmot gave the PreCip a light revamp fairly recently. What changed? Most notably, it now has “Eco” in its name thanks a recycled face fabric and a PFC-free DWR coating. There’s also an updated fit, although the jacket still has a regular cut that’s roomy enough for wearing a lightweight puffy underneath. All told, the REI Rainier above edges it out slightly in comfort and value (it's often found on sale), and those wanting a high-end performance piece that’s stretchy and breathable should look elsewhere, but the PreCip remains a classic choice for mixed every day and hiking use... Read in-depth review See the Men's Marmot PreCip Eco See the Women's Marmot PreCip Eco
9. Arc’teryx Beta Jacket ($400)
Released last year, the Arc’teryx Beta offers a nice middle ground for those who want the premium weather protection of the Beta LT above alongside a more casual feature set. We’ve donned this jacket throughout many a PNW rainstorm and while backpacking in Patagonia, and have come away very impressed with its all-around performance: It’s lightweight at 10.6 ounces, super comfortable against the skin with Gore’s C-Knit backer, and features a trim fit and streamlined hood that look the part both on the trail and in the city. If you’re looking for a one-quiver rain shell for everything from hiking and backpacking to around-town use, the Beta is a strong contender.
The Beta is one of the only jackets on this list to feature 3-layer Gore-Tex waterproofing, which is about as premium as it gets for a rain shell. But while it offers all the performance most hikers need, its simplified design does make a few sacrifices. First off, the relatively thin, 30-denier shell won’t withstand wear and tear as well as jackets like the Torrentshell (50D) or Beta LT (40D) above. Further, the 3-layer Gore-Tex with C-Knit technology is impressively breathable, but you don’t get much in the way of venting (no pit or core vents), which will be apparent on mild or particularly high-output days. Finally, the Beta does not feature a helmet-compatible hood, although most hikers will appreciate the more close-fitting design. But despite the nitpicks, the Beta is a versatile, high-performance rain shell from one of the best brands in the business... Read in-depth review See the Men's Arc'teryx Beta Jacket See the Women's Arc'teryx Beta Jacket
10. Marmot Minimalist ($199)
A longstanding favorite in the rain shell market, Marmot’s Minimalist balances classy looks with solid Gore-Tex protection. The 2-layer Paclite build resembles Outdoor Research’s Foray above, but with a smooth and clean exterior—including fabric flaps over the center zipper and hand pockets and a nice array of subdued colorways—the Minimalist is fully at home around town. For outdoor uses, the jacket is competitively light at 13 ounces, can be rolled into its hood for storage, and features pit zips to keep you comfortable on the move. Finally, Marmot upped their sustainability game with the most recent model, and the Minimalist now features a 100% recycled shell fabric and PFC-free DWR coating. For a reasonable $199, that adds up to a whole lot of jacket.
We’ve had the Minimalist ranked at or near the top of our list in prior years, but we felt the most recent update was a step backwards in most ways (besides the sustainability improvements mentioned above). Specifically, the jacket has lost its high-end feel: Prior models featured premium fabrics and thick and oversized touch points like zipper pulls and toggles, but the latest model feels plasticky and cheap by comparison. We also don’t like the new center flap over the main zipper, which no longer has a button to secure it in place, is relatively small and flimsy, and is prone to folding open. In truth, these are relatively small complaints—and perhaps magnified because we liked the predecessor so much. But we’d love if Marmot brought back the high-quality look and feel of the old Minimalist... Read in-depth review See the Men's Marmot Minimalist See the Women's Marmot Minimalist
11. Patagonia Storm10 ($329)
Patagonia’s Storm10 jacket takes the 3-layer H2No Performance Standard membrane of our top-ranked Torrentshell and pares it down for backcountry duty. With a substantial 5.8-ounce savings, the Storm10 is a performance rain jacket at its finest: It’s impressively waterproof, decently breathable despite the lack of pit zips (the thin 20D shell fabric helps), and packs down very small into its chest pocket. And for those who dabble in climbing or mountain sports, the shell is well equipped thanks to a helmet-compatible hood, hand pockets that are accessible over a harness or hipbelt, and a slim fit.
The Patagonia Storm10 gives the Arc’teryx Beta LT above a run for its money as our top performance pick, but in the end, the two jackets have slightly different intentions. Whereas the Beta LT features a burly shell that's purpose-built to handle winter weather and sustained wet conditions, the Storm10 is more suitable for summer alpine environments. You don’t get a ton of room for layering (we can fit a thin midlayer underneath, but not much more), and the low weight and streamlined feature set makes it one of our favorite emergency layers. In the end, the Beta LT is the more well-rounded pick for most mountain-goers, but the Storm10 is worth a look for those focused more on weight and packability... Read in-depth review See the Men's Patagonia Storm10 See the Women's Patagonia Storm10
12. REI Co-op XeroDry GTX ($179)
Joining the budget-oriented Rainier above, the performance-minded XeroDry GTX is our second pick from REI’s rain jacket collection. The Co-op’s in-house offerings are often great values, and the XeroDry is no exception, boasting a well-regarded Gore-Tex Paclite construction for just $179. What’s more, its 2-layer build helps keep weight and packed size in check without compromising on useful features like two hand pockets and a chest pocket, adjustable cuffs, and a secure hood. REI lightly tweaked the design this year, including small changes to the styling and swapping to a PFC-free DWR finish, but the rest of the formula remains largely the same (this is good news, as it was a popular item). Offered in a healthy range of colors and sizes—including tall for men and XS to 3X for women—the XeroDry is a nice option for anything from daily commuting to extended hiking trips.
We mentioned that the XeroDry is a great value, and for reference, the next-most-affordable Paclite models on our list are Marmot's Minimalist at $199 and OR’s Foray II at $225. However, in saving some money, you give up a little in material quality—we found the XeroDry’s shell to be cheaper-feeling and quicker to absorb moisture in heavy rainfall. And on the move, the hand pocket vents on the REI aren’t as effective at dumping heat as the Minimalist’s or Foray’s pit zips (plus, opening them up means you can't rely on the pockets for storage). These downsides are enough to drop the XeroDry a bit on our list, but we still like its combination of features, Gore-Tex membrane, and price. See the Men's REI XeroDry GTX See the Women's REI XeroDry GTX
13. Montbell Versalite ($249)
The climbing community loves Montbell and for good reason: The company offers well-thought-out technical pieces that come in cheaper than brands like Arc’teryx and Patagonia. Weighing just 6.4 ounces, their Versalite rain jacket is a prime example: You get impressive breathability, good comfort, and features like pit zips and hand pockets for around $250. It’s worth noting that the Gore Infinium construction alone technically isn’t waterproof, but Montbell added a nylon ripstop face fabric, minimal seams plus seam taping, and a DWR coating, making this jacket well equipped for fending off moderate rainfall. And the upside to Gore Infinium is excellent breathability for the weight, which makes the Versatile a great option for long days of hiking (it’s no coincidence that it’s a part of Montbell’s thru-hiking collection).
As with many Montbell products, where the Versalite comes up short is everyday wear. The jacket’s extremely thin 10-denier face fabric (for reference, the ultralight Outdoor Research Helium Rain above uses far tougher 30D) will require extra care to avoid tears and punctures. Moreover, the tall hand pockets and exposed zippers lack the refinement and sleek styling that you get from an Arc’teryx product. That said, the Versalite checks a lot of boxes from a performance standpoint and deserves consideration from ultralight backpackers and minimalist summer-time adventurers. See the Men's Montbell Versalite See the Women's Montbell Versalite
14. Outdoor Research Motive ($229)
We’ve tested a number of Outdoor Research’s AscentShell models over years, and the Motive is their lightest and most affordable to date. At just 10.9 ounces, it’s on par with many budget-oriented 2.5-layer designs like the Marmot PreCip Eco, yet the Motive features a 3-layer construction that easily beats out the Marmot in toughness and breathability. The interior is also quite comfortable for a rain shell, and we found it wasn’t prone to feeling clammy even when working up a sweat in Washington’s Hoh Rainforest. Reasonably priced at $229, the Motive has a whole lot going for it.
We’ve placed the latest AscentShell jacket toward the bottom of our list, however, because its finer details are somewhat disappointing. To start, the cuffs sit awkwardly around your hands: They’re too loose to create a good seal and would benefit from a Velcro cinch. In addition, the single side waist adjuster means the jacket feels uneven when pulled tight. And for a shell that’s intended for hiking and backpacking, we’d prefer the hand pockets sit a little higher to be accessible when wearing a hipbelt (the interior chest pocket is generously sized, however). For casual wear, these complaints may not be deal breakers, but we think there are better crossover everyday/backcountry options. See the Men's Outdoor Research Motive See the Women's OR Motive
15. Cotopaxi Cielo ($145)
Based in Salt Lake City, Cotopaxi is a relatively new brand that has quickly risen to popularity in the outdoor world, thanks to their sustainable business practices, positive community presence, and—of course—hard-to-miss colorways. Their Cielo is case in point: The rain jacket is built with a 100%-recycled shell with PFC-free DWR finish, and its vibrant color blocking and classy fit and finish make it fun to wear both on the trail and around town. What’s more, the feature set is on par with what we look for in an everyday rain jacket, including taped seams, Velcro cuffs, a hem adjustment, three pockets (two hand and one chest), and a water-resistant front zip. As with most of their offerings, Cotopaxi did something a little different with the Cielo, and we really like the result.
The Cielo will get the job done in light rain, but in the end it’s one of the least capable jackets here. Cotopaxi gives it a 10K waterproof rating, which generally correlates to only light protection against moisture. This compromised performance makes the $145 price tag a bit hard to swallow, especially when Columbia’s Watertight above costs about half as much. But we do appreciate Cotopaxi’s effort towards sustainably built outerwear, and their rain jacket is undeniably good-looking for a budget piece. If you’re in the market for a casual shell for light drizzles or quick dashes between the car and the climbing gym, the Cielo fits the part. See the Men's Cotopaxi Cielo See the Women's Cotopaxi Cielo
16. Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 ($195)
Rab is best known for their technical hardshells and insulated jackets—they’re a climbing company at their core—but they’ve been making consistent strides in the rain jacket market of late. Our favorite from their collection is the Downpour Plus 2.0, which offers a strong dose of performance at a very reasonable price point. The 2.5-layer shell is softer and more pliable than most 3-layer designs here, and all the touch points have a quality look and feel to them. The jacket also has great technical chops with pit zips; raised hand pockets that are hipbelt-friendly; and an adjustable, helmet-compatible hood. Overall, it’s a versatile design that should be on the radar for everyone from hikers and backpackers to bike commuters.
At $195, the Rab slides in between popular rain shells like the Patagonia Torrentshell and Marmot Minimalist above. All three jackets check in around 13 to 14 ounces and come with pit zips, but the Rab stands out with its smooth-operating coated zippers (the aforementioned jackets instead feature storm flaps) and trimmer fit. But we rank the Rab below the Patagonia and Marmot because of its subpar performance in heavy rain: The DWR coating wets out pretty quickly in a downpour, and the thinner shell fabric is prone to absorbing moisture and pressing against your arms and shoulders. As such, we think the Torrentshell and Minimalist are the better buys for those getting out in rough conditions. But if you prioritize comfort, a performance fit, and price, the Rab is at least worth considering. See the Men's Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 See the Women's Rab Downpour Plus 2.0
17. The North Face Venture 2 ($109)
Just about every major outdoor brand offers a budget-oriented rain shell for about $100, and The North Face’s entry is the popular Venture. Like the Marmot PreCip Eco and REI Co-op Rainier above, the TNF features a 2.5-layer construction (in this case, their in-house DryVent design), pit zips for ventilation, and an adjustable hood. In addition, they’ve covered the basics for mixed daily wear and hiking uses with a reasonable 11.6-ounce weight, stuff pocket, and layering-friendly fit. Offered in a wide range of colors and backed by the brand’s impressive warranty, the Venture 2 is worth having on your radar.
Why do we have The North Face Venture 2 ranked here? To start, it has our least favorite hood design among its competitors with less coverage at the top of the head due to its flimsy bill. Second, the main zipper has a coil design that lacks the smooth, confidence-inspiring action of the Marmot and REI. Finally, we've had consistent issues with the jacket wetting out fairly quickly in heavy rainfall (it's also slow to dry). Despite our complaints, the Venture 2 is still a serviceable emergency shell and a step in the right direction from the old Venture, which we found to be very cheaply made. For a similar concept but with a more durable, around-town-friendly build, check out TNF’s Resolve 2... Read in-depth review See the Men's The North Face Venture 2 See the Women's The North Face Venture 2
18. Black Diamond Highline Stretch ($300)
Building on the success of the StormLine above, Black Diamond took that expertise upmarket with the Highline Stretch. Here’s the story: This hardshell-like design includes a 3-layer variation of their in-house BD.dry membrane, has a light amount of stretch incorporated into the nylon build, and keeps things pretty light at 12.7 ounces (our men’s medium is slightly more at 12.8 oz.). The Highline sticks to BD’s roots with a climbing helmet-compatible hood (it’s too small for a standard ski helmet) and includes useful features like pit zips, hand pockets, and a tall collar. For fast-and-light alpine trips when the forecast looks favorable, the Highline certainly can do the trick.
Overall, we think BD’s Highline does a nice job balancing price, weight, and protection for 3-season use, but it can’t compete with the Gore-Tex-equipped Beta LT above in terms of outright protection and refinement. The construction is undeniably thin—it feels almost paper-like along the interior—and the zippers are fairly stiff and have a cheaper feel to them. As such, we give the edge to the burlier Beta LT for year-long use (plus, the Beta's larger hood makes it fully functional as a backcountry ski jacket). If you don’t need full-on winter protection, however, the Highline is a comfortable and well-designed shell that costs significantly less than the Gore-Tex-equipped alternatives... Read in-depth review See the Men's BD Highline Stretch See the Women's BD Highline Stretch
19. Columbia Watertight II ($75)
Priced at $75 and often available for a discount at Amazon, the Columbia Watertight II is a leading budget rain jacket. And while it doesn’t stack up as well in performance testing, good seam sealing and a reliable build make it a solid option for daily use or as a just-in-case shell when bad weather isn’t in the forecast. The Portland-based brand does value-oriented gear better than most, and the Watertight and women’s-specific Arcadia include a number of features you don’t often find at this price point: zippered hand pockets, Velcro wrist cinches, and an adjustable hood.
How does the Watertight II compare with REI’s budget-friendly Rainier above? Both jackets have large fits (sizing down is recommended unless you want room for layering), stuff away into a pocket, and weigh about the same (the REI is 1.2 oz. heavier). The Columbia will save you around $25, but the Rainier's 2.5-layer design is more breathable, and the shell and interior are noticeably softer to the touch. You also get pit zips for dumping heat and a higher-quality hood with better adjustability, which are worthwhile upgrades for most hikers. In other words, unless you prioritize price above all else, we think the REI is the better buy... Read in-depth review See the Men's Columbia Watertight II See the Women's Columbia Arcadia II
Rain Jacket Comparison Table
Editor's Note: "Packable" indicates the jacket has a stuff pocket.
Rain Jacket Buying Advice
Rain jacket categories, waterproof vs. water-resistant, fabric layers, durable water repellent finish (dwr), breathability, packability, sustainability: recycled materials, pfc-free dwr, and more, rain jackets with built-in stretch.
- Hardshells and Softshells
Rain Jacket Care
Daily Use If you live in a wet climate like the Pacific Northwest or New England, a rain jacket is an indispensable part of your everyday wardrobe. For daily uses like commuting, running errands, or walking the dog, you’ll likely prioritize a casual fit (which will accommodate a wide variety of layers underneath) and useful features like handwarmer pockets and Velcro wrist cinches. You won’t often see add-ons like helmet-compatible hoods or exposed, water-resistant zippers in this category, and daily use jackets don’t prioritize weight-savings or packability (in fact, they’re often quite thick and durable). As a result, daily use jackets are either budget-oriented or designed with style in mind, and some of our favorites include the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L (which crosses over nicely into the hiking category below) and Marmot Minimalist.
Hiking Hiking-focused shells vie with those in our daily use category for the most common type of lightweight rain jacket. This designation includes big sellers like the entry-level Marmot PreCip Eco all the way up to the $400 Arc’teryx Beta. Hiking jackets are built to be light and packable to bring along on a backcountry trip, and their performance in heavy rain and wind is admirable—particularly the more substantial Gore-Tex Paclite models (including the Marmot Minimalist and Outdoor Research Foray II ). Breathability does suffer compared with the performance shells below and the cheaper jackets won't last as long, but hiking shells are a nice middle ground of price, weight, and protection.
Performance Performance-oriented rain jackets are your focused outdoor pieces. One step down from a full-on hardshell jacket, they're made to withstand extreme conditions: The shell fabrics are tougher, the waterproof membranes are better breathers, and the hoods are more substantial. As a result, the interior fabrics are also much less prone to clamming up, and often have a premium, soft feel. Price does increase with these upgrades, although daily usability is nearly on par with the hiking/daily use category above. The primary compromise is pocket placement as some hand pockets sit high to accommodate a climbing harness or backpack hipbelt. Jackets in this category include the Arc'teryx Beta LT , which impressed us with its performance during a wet and slushy winter in the PNW.
No piece of outdoor gear offers total protection from outside moisture, but most of today’s rain jackets are listed as being either “water-resistant” or “waterproof.” Many light rain jackets, windbreakers, and softshells are water-resistant, meaning that they shed water in light to modest precipitation but aren’t completely waterproof under extended exposure. Waterproof jackets have a built-in laminate layer like Gore-Tex or a coating that essentially blocks outside moisture from entering under most conditions. Additionally, they have waterproof taping along the seams on the interior of the jacket.
You may notice a waterproof rating listed on some outdoor gear websites, represented by a number from 0 to 20,000mm or more. This is the amount of water in a 1-inch-diameter vertical tube that the material can withstand without leaking. The test is a strange one: It doesn’t mimic real-world conditions and many manufacturers choose not to list it at all. Other factors like seam taping play a major role in waterproofness, so the number doesn’t truly determine how dry you will stay in a downpour. We at Switchback Travel don’t feel the waterproof ratings are very helpful in the buying process and have chosen not to list them with our specs. You can take note of the number when it’s available, as it will often correlate with other characteristics like fabric thickness and durability, but don’t base your buying decision on that alone.
3-Layer A true 3-layer construction incorporates three separate pieces of fabric, with the actual waterproof and breathable membrane in the middle and a more substantial fabric on the interior. This adds a bit of bulk than a comparable 2.5 layer, but increases durability and further improves moisture wicking and next-to-skin feel. Jumping to a 3-layer jacket also involves a significant increase in price (one exception is Patagonia's $179 Torrentshell 3L ), and most often these are big name designs, like Gore-Tex or eVent. It's worth noting that nearly all premium performance jackets to make our list have a 3-layer construction.
In addition to the waterproof membrane, another key piece of a rain jacket’s protection is its durable water repellent finish (commonly referred to as DWR). This coating is applied to the exterior of most rain jackets to prevent moisture from absorbing into the face fabric by beading up the droplets. A fresh DWR is an impressive thing and can offer excellent protection in light to moderate conditions, although heavy and sustained rainfall will eventually overwhelm the coating (that’s where the waterproof membrane comes into play). Over time, the DWR finish will wear down, although you can keep it fresh by staying on top of maintenance (more on this in our “ Care ” section below).
A final note related to DWR is that there has been a recent push to move away from traditional coatings that use perfluorocarbons, which is a chemical that has been linked to environmental and health issues. It’s still a developing technology and key brands like Patagonia haven’t made the full switch yet (for more, here’s Patagonia’s breakdown of the process ), but PFC-free options are becoming more prevalent on the market. We outline other key measures in our " Sustainability " section below.
A quick look at our comparison table above reveals that rain jacket weights correlate closely with their intended use(s). On the lightweight end of the spectrum are hiking-ready shells like the Arc'teryx Beta and Outdoor Research Motive (10.6 and 10.9 oz., respectively), while designs that are more feature-rich and durable for crossing over for daily wear often add a bit of weight (including the 14.1-oz. Patagonia Torrentshell and 13.9-oz. Arc'teryx Beta LT). For those who want a well-rounded option, we’ve found the 9- to 16-ounce range is typically the sweet spot.
One of the most sought-after features in a waterproof rain jacket is breathability: the ability for perspiration and other moisture to exit the jacket without outside water coming in. Some cheaper rain jackets are barely breathable at all, but almost all of the fabrics used in today’s models are at least somewhat breathable and promoted as such. The market leader has long been Gore-Tex, particularly in their high-end "Active" and "Pro" offerings, but a number of fabrics are now challenging the paradigm, including AscentShell by Outdoor Research. Generally speaking, the more you spend the more breathable the jacket will be. One exception is ultralight jackets, which cost more than cheap lightweight models but ventilate approximately the same in most cases. A jacket’s ability to keep you cool is greatly enhanced with the inclusion of pit zips, which we discuss further below.
A jacket’s packability can be looked at and measured in a couple ways. First, there are the jackets that can stuff into their own pockets. Just turn the pocket inside out, smoosh the jacket in, and zip it shut. While this is great, it’s doesn’t necessarily mean the jacket is that packable. The packed sizes can vary widely for these “packable” shells, with the ultralights resembling a small envelope and others, like the cheaper Columbia Watertight, measuring about 3x the size. The other way of looking at packable rain shells is how compressible they truly are. In that respect, the lightweight Arc'teryx Beta would still be considered quite “packable," despite lacking a stuff pocket. You can just roll it up into its own hood to protect the thinner fabric in your pack. Look to weight as a great indicator of how packable a jacket truly is.
The outdoor apparel world has seen a sizable uptick in the use of sustainable practices over the past several years, and the rain jacket market has been one of the most dynamic. Key measures include recycled materials and PFC-free DWR coatings (traditional coatings use per- or polyfluorinated chemicals—"forever chemicals" known to be harmful to the environment). With many states stepping up to ban the sale of items that include PFCs, the outdoor industry is seeking better solutions for water- and stain-resistant finishes (for more, you can read about Patagonia’s take on the issue ). Bluesign-approved fabrics are also becoming more common, indicating that the materials have been sourced and produced to minimize their overall impact on the environment. Finally, many companies make products with a Fair Trade certification, which helps ensure the fair and ethical treatment of workers.
The good news is that most sustainability-conscious brands are transparent about these practices and clearly indicate which (if any) measures each product uses. Patagonia is a clear leader in this realm: Their Torrentshell 3L , for example, uses a 100%-recycled face fabric, PFC-free DWR coating, PU membrane that’s comprised of 13% biobased content, and is both bluesign-approved and Fair Trade Certified, indicating that the materials are safe for consumers and the environment and that workers are treated fairly. Other brands that are competitive in the sustainability realm include REI Co-op, Marmot, and Black Diamond. Arc’teryx has traditionally lagged behind here, but some of their recent releases have begun incorporating best-known practices. All told, there’s still a long ways to go in the industry, but the current trajectory and momentum from many of the key players are encouraging.
Rain jackets don’t offer as much variation in features as some other types of outdoor gear, but there are notable differences between models. Many ultralight and trail running jackets forego pockets to cut down on weight, while other models sport them in abundance. Some rain jackets offer pit zips and/or full side vents, while basic models do not (as well as taped seams on more expensive rain jackets for extra protection from the elements). Almost all rain jackets have hoods included, but some are cut big enough to fit over a bike or climbing helmet and the style of the cinch varies significantly. Keep a close eye on features and try to match them to your intended use and budget. Pockets Casual users appreciate a couple of hand pockets, and that’s one of the most notable omissions in using an ultralight shell for daily use. Most ultralight shells go without hand pockets, instead opting for a chest pocket for storage. On the other hand, more feature-rich shells, such as our hiking/daily use options, hit a better sweet spot for the everyday user. You often get two hand pockets and a chest pocket (either on the inside or outside of the shell), all the better for the little things you need to carry around on a daily basis like a phone or wallet.
Hood Hood size can be a big consideration when rain jacket shopping. If you plan to climb in your rain jacket, look for one with a helmet-compatible hood. These can reach over the top of most climbing helmets for added weather protection. But for normal hiking and backpacking, it’s often prudent to avoid this feature as the large hood will require a lot of cinching down, causing the fabrics to bunch up.
Adjustability of the hood also is key. When the wind is blowing, you want a hood that conforms to your head, while retaining enough structure around the sides and the bill that you can still see out. Some manufacturers succeed better than others at this concept. One standout is Arc’teryx’s StormHood (as seen on the Beta LT ): With a single pull at the back of the hood, you adjust evenly around the sides and back of the head. We prefer the toggle style for adjusting the back of the hood over a rip-and-stick Velcro tab for its improved performance. The cord wraps around the sides of your head and pins the fabric down in a uniform way when cinched, which keeps the hood on your head even in really windy conditions. The benefits of the Velcro style are simplicity and weight: They don’t require a cord or toggle, both of which add a bit of bulk.
Pit Zips, Side Zips, and Core Vents In creating a waterproof jacket specifically designed to keep moisture out, there are natural restrictions on the air being held inside. And when you’re working hard, it can quickly become a necessity to dump some of that hot air rather quickly. Enter the pit zip. By opening up the jacket under the arms, you can release a lot of air without sacrificing the jacket’s waterproof design. The ultimate expression of how effective a pit zip can be is the Outdoor Research Foray II . The underarm zippers extend all the way down to the hems on either side. Full unzipped, the jacket becomes a poncho.
Because adding pit zips to a jacket inevitably results in a slight weight increase, some manufacturers like REI, Rab, and Outdoor Research have come up with a creative solution: core vents. By lining some of their designs' handwarmer pockets with airy mesh, they double as vents when unzipped. It’s not perfect—opening your pockets to vent means that anything stored inside could fall out and it doesn’t dump heat as quickly as the traditional pit zip—but it does save weight while offering a boost in ventilation.
Waist Adjustments To give the best seal possible, every rain jacket that we recommend here has some sort of cinch system at the hem. Typically done with a cord and toggle, they’re very user-friendly. You’ll see one side cinch on ultralights when the manufacturer is trying to cut some weight. The single cinch does mean if you really have to tighten the jacket, it will pull a bit to one side, but it’s often negligible and worth the weight savings. Heavier rain jackets have cinches on each side for a more even fit.
Over the past few years, there have been a growing number of waterproof rain jackets featuring built-in stretch. Designs like Outdoor Research’s Motive and Black Diamond’s StormLine and FineLine incorporate fabrics and a waterproof internal membrane that flex surprisingly easily. For performance use, the benefits are obvious: While climbing, hiking, or other activities where you’re moving your arms a lot, a stretchy jacket is less restrictive. But we’ve also enjoyed the greater level of comfort and less crinkly feel for daily wear. In general, a stretchy rain jacket will cost more than a standard shell (for example, the BD StormLine is $180 compared with the $100 Marmot PreCip Eco), but it’s a nice upgrade that comes with plenty of tangible benefits.
A rain jacket’s waterproofing relies on a combination of factors: durable water repellent (DWR) coating that beads up water, and clean fabric layers on either side of the waterproof and breathable membrane to allow air vapor to pass through. Some membrane designs are more vulnerable to getting clogged up and require consistent cleaning (this will vary based on use, but we aim for every few weeks with our eVent direct venting gear).
For washing, it’s always best to start by checking the label on your jacket as the specific instructions will vary. As a general recommendation, the following works well for us: Wash the jacket in warm water with liquid detergent, and run it through a second rinse cycle to clear out any detergent residue. Line drying typically is best, although we’ve had some eVent and Gore-Tex jackets that instruct you to put it in the dryer on warm heat to replenish the DWR finish.
If you’re noticing that the jacket isn’t beading up water anymore and putting it in the dryer for a short stretch doesn’t fix the problem, you may need to reapply some DWR (this is common as the coating diminishes over time). A waterproof jacket without DWR won’t breathe as well in heavy rain because the water will pool up and soak into the exterior fabric layer. Reapplying the DWR is done through a fairly simple process, and we’ve found that the Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On works well. Back to Our Top Rain Jacket Picks Back to Our Rain Jacket Comparison Table
Learn More About Outdoor Gear
Hiking Gear Reviews
Arc’teryx Beta Jacket Review
Rain Jacket Construction: 2L vs. 2.5L vs. 3L
Best Women’s Rain Jackets of 2024
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket (2023) Review
Best Trail Running Shoes of 2024
Best Hardshell Jackets of 2024
Outdoor Research Foray II GTX Jacket Review
Best Backpacking Tents of 2024
Mobile Menu
Megamenu - desktop hamburger menu.
- Hiking Gear
- Backpacking Gear
- Biking Gear
- Camping Gear
- Footwear Reviews
- Climbing Gear
- Skiing Gear
- Winter Gear Reviews
- In-Depth Gear Reviews
- Hiking Shoes
- Hiking Boots
- Trail Running Shoes
- Mountain Bike Shoes
- Approach Shoes
- Climbing Shoes
- Beginner Climbing Shoes
- Mountaineering Boots
- Winter Boots
- Rain Jackets
- Down Jackets
- Synthetic Jackets
- Fleece Jackets
- Hardshell Jackets
- Softshell Jackets
- Windbreaker Jackets
- Ski Jackets
- Winter Jackets
- Hiking Pants
- Hiking Socks
- Trekking Poles
- Baby Carriers
- Running Vests
- Backpacking Tents
- Backpacking Packs
- Backpacking Sleeping Bags
- Backpacking Sleeping Pads
- Backpacking Stoves
- Backpacking Food
- Water Filters
- Altimeter Watches
- Handheld GPS
- Mountain Bike Helmets
- Mountain Bikes
- Mountain Bikes Under $1,000
- Mountain Bikes Under $2,000
- Gravel Bikes
- Bike Brands
- Kids' Bikes
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Camping Tents
- Rooftop Tents
- Camping Sleeping Bags
- Camping Mattresses
- Camping Chairs
- Camping Stoves
- Duffel Bags
- Rock Climbing Shoes
- Climbing Helmets
- Climbing Harnesses
- Climbing Quickdraws
- Belay Devices
- Climbing Ropes
- Climbing Backpacks
- Winter Gloves
- 4-Season Tents
- Ski Helmets
- Ski Goggles
- Ski Backpacks
- All-Mountain Skis
- Ski Bindings
- Backcountry Skis
- Backcountry Ski Boots
- Skis for Beginners
- Hardpack Skis
- Mirrorless Cameras
- Full-Frame Cameras
- DSLR Cameras
- Point-and-Shoot Cameras
- Travel Cameras
- DSLR Lenses
- Mirrorless Lenses
- Lofoten Islands
- Lofoten Hiking
- Hardangervidda
- Jotunheimen
- 10 Great Norway Hikes
- Public Huts
- Torres del Paine
- Chalten and Glaciares
- Lake District
- Patagonia National Park
- Milford Sound
- Abel Tasman
- Marlborough
- Great Walks
- Adventure Towns
Add adventure to your inbox
- Privacy Policy
- Terms of Use
© 2024 Switchback Travel. All Rights Reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission.
Best Packable Rain Jackets (Light, Compact & Affordable)
Traveling around the world means having to be ready for anything. Unfortunately, you can’t exactly carry your entire house with you, especially if you’re carrying a single backpack. That’s why you need one of the best packable rain jackets to help you beat that sudden downpour!
At A Glance: Our Top 3 Picks for Packable Rain Jackets
- BEST travel rain jacket Marmot Precip Jacket Jump To Review
- best lightweight waterproof jacket Arc'teryx Zeta LT Jump To Review
- BEST VALUE FOR MONEY The North Face Alta Vista Jacket Jump To Review
- Cheapest Compact Rain Jacket Paradox Waterproof Rain Jacket Jump To Review
And when you don’t need it, you can keep it stowed away in your bag and forgotten about. Until you need it, suddenly, again!
There are many kinds of lightweight rain jackets out there, from soft shell jackets to heavier hard shell. But some are a few notches above the rest.
These won’t save you in extremely wet weather or torrential rain, but they will give you enough protection from light drizzles to moderate rain. Either way, you’ll be thankful you thought of packing one of these babies in your bag.
Top Product Overview
Best packable rain jackets, marmot precip jacket.
Another great alternative for a packable rain jacket is the Marmot Precip . It’s not as popular as the Patagonia Torrentshell, but it’s quickly gaining cult-level popularity due to great performance for a lower price tag. And the fact that it’s a fully waterproof rain jacket, of course!
The Precip offers reliable protection against water, wind, and even some light snow thanks to its DWR coating and NanoPro Nylon Ripstop material.
The collar is a good touch to keep your neck covered and keep rain from entering from the top. Together with the hood, the whole head is pretty well covered . The hood is also removable making it a great option for everyday and urban wear.
The adjustable cuffs are sealed with velcro, and the hem is adjustable and keeps water and cold out pretty well. The front zipper is not waterproof, but it is covered with a flap and also secured with velcro to keep it from flying up. It also has an additional storm flap underneath the zipper to keep the water out.
It doesn’t come with a chest zip or pit zips (like the majority of packable rain jackets) but it does have some mesh inner pockets to store things if the need arises.
TIP: You can read a full review of the Marmot Precip here .
While it’s great for moderate rain, the Precip is not meant to be worn under torrential and extended rain. The water doesn’t leak through the jacket, but it does soak through the upper layer and you’ll feel the cold on your skin.
- Relatively affordable compared to rainjackets in the same category
- Excellent performance
- Removable hood
- Water soaks through in extended exposure
Product Information
- Weight: 11 ounces
- Waterproofing: DriClime® Lined Chin Guard
- Material: 100% Nylon Ripstop 2.2 oz/ yd
Arc'teryx Zeta LT
If you’re a serious hiker and traveler and you’re on the lookout for the best gear in the market, then the Arc’teryx Zeta LT delivers the highest performance on this list.
It also goes without saying that it costs the most as well by almost double the price . However, if the price is no problem, then you’re getting yourself one of the most reliable and packable rain jackets out there.
This waterproof jacket has hand pockets that go above a hip belt, an adjustable hood that can mold to your head, and an outer shell that performs like a hard shell jacket in a very lightweight package. It also has its own chest pocket that is quite deep, to store items you want easy access to. Although there are no pit zips, so, if you walk for a while in this, it will eventually get a bit warm!
Despite the tough build, it’s still lighter than the Patagonia Torrentshell at 11.85 ounces . It performs better than any lightweight rain jacket on the list and is one great investment instead of getting poorer built and tear-prone lightweight jackets.
It also does not skimp on comfort. While most packable rain jackets tend to be clammy and less breathable to keep the waterproofing intact, the Arc’teryx Zeta LT has a Gore-Tex C-Knit interior. It’s soft against the skin while still moisture-wicking and odor repellent .
Unlike most ultralight rain jackets that use a 2-layer build, the Zeta LT has a 3-Layer construction. The Gore-Tex waterproof membrane is sandwiched between the outer shell and inner liner. Even in the heaviest rain, you won’t feel clammy and the jacket won’t feel slippery against your skin.
Note: If you want the even lighter and more packable version check out the Arc’teryx Zeta SL .
Despite the thicker build, Arc’teryx was able to keep this jacket light and breathable . Thanks to the C-knit inner layer, the wearer is kept cool even when you’re working really hard. It also has a snugger fit than most lightweight rain jackets, which keeps less hot air to build up inside.
In terms of packability, it doesn’t have its own stuff sack or pocket . However, it’s thin and manageable enough to roll and store into the hood.
- High performance lightweight rainjacket
- Extremely comfortable
- Lightweight and packable
- Very expensive
- No stuff sack or stuff pocket
- Weight: 11.85 ounces
- Waterproofing: 3L Gore-Tex C-Knit
- Material: GORE-TEX C-KNIT Backer Technology
The North Face Alta Vista Jacket
The North Face has been making outdoor gear for decades, so they are a worthy contender for the best packable rain jackets around. This particular model is a new model that is a great compromise between a waterproof jacket and sometimes lightweight and packable. And affordable too!
Unlike the far more expensive Gore-tex options, this jacket uses a DryVent™ 2.5 Layer shell with mesh liner, to reduce any discomfort. It is reasonably breathable too, so you won’t feel like you are wearing a portable sauna!
Starting at the top, it has a 3-way adjustable hood, pit zips to let the sweat out and adjustable pulls to rein in the hem for the perfect fit. These are all the kinds of things I look for as a minimum in a jacket because otherwise they don’t fit, water and wind gets in and they are a waste of money, quite frankly.
In terms of packability, this jacket is so small and light it rolls into the pocket! This is a pocket rain jacket you can throw it in any bag, your car, your biking or running pack and always have it handy. Sure, it’s not a mountaineering Goretex jacket, but for the price it is a no-brainer and many reviewers say the same thing!
The front zipper of this pack away rain jacket is one of those great waterproof zippers. And the DWR on the outside will have the rain beading off in no time. One guy who reviewed this recently said he came out of a downpour completely dry.
All in all, this is a great buy for anyone not wanting to spend a fortune on a full Gore-tex jacket, but still wanting a little comfort and something light to carry around in case of bad weather.
- Extremely affordable option
- Waterproof and Windproof
- Runs a little small
- Weight: 11.6 ounces
- Waterproofing: 2.5-layer DryVent
- Material: 2.5-layer DryVent
Paradox Waterproof Rain Jacket
Sometimes, all you need is a product that works. For those who are not keen on dropping a wad of cash for a foldable rain jacket, the Paradox Waterproof Rain Jacket fits the bill.
Priced under $50 , this is anyone’s go-to packable rain coat for casual travel . Of course, you sacrifice some comfort and performance with a lower price tag, but it does a good job of protecting you from that sudden rainfall on an otherwise sunny day. Made of a polyester and nylon blend , you can even toss this in a washing machine in a cold setting.
This packable rain jacket is built with a 2.5-layer breathability level with a thin inner lining. Without ventilation, this tends to get very clammy and you get very sweaty when working hard under the rain. The outer shell is treated with a water repellent finish , which tends to wear out after years of use.
Rain also soaks through to the middle layer after around an hour of continuous exposure, which will then get you feeling cold. Luckily, it doesn’t soak through entirely.
While the silhouette and design are sleek and stylish, the material itself has a plastic feel . The hood also goes on the large side and has limited adjustment options. It also doesn’t come with its own stuff sack, but you can easily stow it in the hood and stuff it in your bag. It also comes with one handy internal chest pocket, so you can stash at least your phone or keys if you need to.
Nevertheless, at its price, you can’t get any better than this.
- Extremely affordable
- Lightweight and compact when packed
- Mediocre performance
- Rain can soak through after an hour of exposure
- Waterproofing: 2.5 layer
- Material: 80% Nylon/20% Polyester
Outdoor Research Helium Jacket
When we talk about lightweight, there’s no other company that does it better than Outdoor Research. The Outdoor Research Helium is ultralight, packable, and sports a minimalist design in bright and neutral colors.
Thanks to its Pertex waterproof build , the Helium II does an excellent job protecting wearers against rain and width. It only weighs 6.4 ounces , but the material is quite sturdy and almost impenetrable. It’s been a top pick for hikers, bikers, and travelers.
The Outdoor Research Helium rain jacket doesn’t boast much in terms of features. There is o ne Napoleon chest pocket , a water-resistant main zipper , and a single pull hood adjustment . It stuffs easily into an inner pocket and it turns out so compact and weightless that there’s no real reason for you to leave it behind.
Because of the lack of functionality , it’s not the best jacket to wear around the urban jungle. No hand pockets, nowhere to store your phone, and nothing to keep things from getting stolen. It’s a very basic jacket almost to a fault , but its real performance comes out when you get it outdoors.
While the Outdoor Research Helium jacket is great for waterproofing, the material can get very clammy . Its 2.5-layer design is not very breathable and there are absolutely no venting options . It’s a great option for surprise rain, but wearing it for long periods of time will leave you sweaty and uncomfortable.
While it has significant design flaws, the price range is very attractive . It’s not the cheapest but also definitely not the most expensive. If price is no option, there are better garments on this list that can do a better job. However, value for money gives Helium II a big boost in terms of favorites.
- Excellent water and windproofing
- Value for money
- Not breathable
- Only one pocket
- Weight: 6.4 ounces
- Waterproofing: 2.5L Pertex Shield +
- Material: 100% Nylon
Patagonia Torrentshell
Patagonia is another great brand for outdoor gear, and the Torrentshell is one of the best packable rain jackets. Much thought was put into achieving the perfect fit , not just for style but also for better protection against the elements. It has a sleek flap to cover the waterproof zipper and adjustable hems to hug your hips .
Unlike many rain jackets, the Patagonia Torrentshell is sleek and stylish enough for everyday and urban wear.
It has a more luxurious feel to it as well. The fabric is soft to the touch and not plasticky like many packable rain jackets. At 13.9 ounces , it’s not featherlight, but still light enough for you to easily carry it around everywhere. This heftier build also comes in handy when the weather turns particularly sour . And when the drizzle does turn into heavy rain, the 2-way adjustable hood design keeps your face well protected in any weather.
There’s a single cinch at the back to adjust the sides and back of the head. It also has a small bill to extend protection over the face. It also packs compactly into one of the hand pockets.
The athletic style of the jacket makes for a great silhouette, but the shorter back of the hem doesn’t do well for rain protection. As with any kind of garment, the backside usually rides higher than the front, and a longer back hem would have been better for keeping rain from hitting the backside.
Overall, however, it’s a great option for everyday and emergency wear . It retains its slimmer style even when layered over a shirt or under a heftier jacket. Its versatile use is a great option for travel and outdoor adventures.
- Great athletic fit
- Versatile and functional
- Adjustable hood design
- Short back hem
- Weight: 13.9 ounces
- Waterproofing: 3L H2No
- Material: 100% recycled nylon ripstop
Black Diamond Stormline Stretch
Black Diamond has a pedigree when it comes to making long-lasting, reliable, and waterproof outdoor gear. I use a lot of their stuff for snow sports and I have to say that they never fail to amaze me with the quality of their product.
The Black Diamond Stormline is another worthy contender for a great lightweight rain jacket with all the jacket features you would expect. It features their in-house 2.5 layers BD-Dry fabric which is waterproof, breathable, and stretchy. It comes with a DWR coating to help make the water bead. At least for a while.
Black Diamond even gives you pit zips on this model, which is rare in this review. If you don’t know what they are, they are waterproof zippers under your arms which you can open as much as you like to let the jacket ventilate when you are doing heavy exercise. You normally only see these features on top-of-the-line Goretex jackets .
All the openings are also easily secured to keep you dry including the cuffs, hem, and hood, which is adjustable.
- Waterproof, Windproof & Stretchy
- Full of features you only get on a top-notch Goretex
- Fit may not be as you would normally expect
- Weight: 282 g (9.9 oz)
- Waterproofing: 2.5 layer DB-Dry from Black Diamond
- Material: 100% Nylon 2.5 Layer
Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket
Colombia is not as renowned for its outdoor gear as say Patagonia or North Face, however, if you want quality at a reasonable price, they are a great option. This lightweight, packable rain jacket has all the features you would expect. Starting with their own branded Omni-Tech breathable waterproof layer, they have also added mesh on the inside for a little extra comfort.
The fabric chin guard is also a welcome addition for when you need to zip all the way up in cold, windy conditions. This ultralight rain jacket also has zippered pockets and a draw-string hem to keep the wind out. And, it is packable into the pockets, which is great for when you want to keep it in your bag – just in case.
All in all, most owners of this jacket say it’s a great buy and keeps the weather out in all kinds of conditions. For hours on end.
- Lightweight rain gear
- Compact when packed
- Runs a little large, although is great for layering in cold weather
- Waterproofing: Omni-Tech™ waterproof & breathable fully seam sealed
- Material: 100% Nylon 2L Full Dull plain weave
Arc'teryx Norvan SL
If you want the absolute lightest rain jacket , then you can’t go past the Arc’teryx Norvan SL . It is actually designed for trail running, so you can understand why it is so light, packable, and yet still absolutely waterproof.
It weighs in at only 4.4oz (125g) so is great when you want something that will pack into a small space. I have a similar jacket for mountain biking, which I rarely use, but know will always be there when I need it. Right at the bottom of my pack, taking little space.
They have used a new technology on this jacket – Goretex along with Shakedry to help keep the weight to a minimum. There are also fewer features on this jacket, as it is so minimalist – with elastic use on all openings (hood, cuffs, and hem).
So, it might not be as tight and windproof as other jackets that you can really cinch down. The hood is rollable and stowable though, which is a smart addition. All in all, this is the type of light, packable rain jacket people need when they to sports.
- Extremely Lightweight and Packable
- Great for sports
- Not as windproof as other jackets
- Weight: 4.4 oz (125 g)
- Waterproofing: Goretex with Shakedry
What To Look For
Rain jackets come in all shapes, sizes, materials, and built. Casual users will require fewer functions than serious hikers. Determine what you’ll use your rain gear for, how often, and under what conditions. This will greatly affect the materials you need and the price you pay for.
Also, ensure that it is going to provide you with enough range of motion for the main activity you want to do in the jacket. This is far more important for sports, so in those cases, you will find the more expensive jackets on the market are often better equipped for such things.
Waterproofing
Just because it’s a rain jacket doesn’t mean it will always keep you completely dry. Know the difference between water-repellent and waterproof. Most rain jackets, especially the ones on the cheaper range, will eventually soak through if exposed for long periods of time in the pouring rain. While you won’t always end up wet, a soaked rain jacket will leave you cold and clammy.
So, look for jackets that use a top-notch material like Gore-tex, Gore-tex paclite or similarly branded equivalents from North Face and Black Diamond.
Breathability
The biggest flaw of any rain jacket is breathability. Most rain jackets have no venting options to keep the integrity of their waterproofing or water-repellent function. This means that if you’re hiking or doing any serious activity with the jacket on, you’ll eventually create heat inside the jacket and the jacket will trap that heat inside. Check for inner lining materials that keep you cool.
Weight and Packability
The point of carrying a lightweight and packable rain jacket is to have it with you at all times in case of emergencies. This means it should be light enough for you to forget about it and packable enough for you to stuff it in any bag. If the rain jacket doesn’t come with its own stuff sack or can’t be packed in its stuff pocket, something that’s light can still be rolled compactly and tucked into its own hood.
Which Packable Rain Jacket Is The Best For Me?
Rain jackets have one purpose – protect you from the rain. The difference is how well they do it.
Hands down, the best lightweight jacket on the list is the Arc’teryx Zeta LT . With its hardshell performance in a lightweight and packable jacket, the Zeta LT outperforms any rain jacket by far. It can be used for daily wear, emergencies, and tougher outdoor activities without getting you clammy, uncomfortable, or soaked through. And it’s so super light, you almost won’t know it’s in your backpack!
- ZETA LT JACKET - The Zeta LT delivers weather protection during extended trekking and backpacking trips. Lightweight, comfortable and compressible, it is made from N40p-X 3L GORE-TEX fabric with GORE C-KNIT backer technology. This material delivers longwearing waterproof, windproof, highly breathable performance with a backer technology that makes the fabric exceptionally supple, quiet and comfortable next to the skin.
For use anywhere kind of rain jacket, the Marmot PreCip Jacket is your best choice. Stylish with a removable hood for urban wear, it can stand up to the elements for outdoor adventures at well. At a mid-range price, this jacket performs pretty well for any kind of weather.
- Avoid Getting Soaked - Sturdy and durable with a patented dry-touch finish, this waterproof jacket will keep you comfortable and protected during planned treks in stormy weather or as a just-in-case layer in your pack for unexpected downpours.
- The Next Generation Of Waterproofing - Our PreCip collection of pants and jackets is made with PFC-free NanoPro recycled nylon fabric that keeps you dry in the wettest conditions and is highly breathable thanks to an advanced microporous coating.
If you want it cheap but still functional, there’s no other jacket that can do the job other than the Paradox Waterproof Rain Jacket . It may not be as comfortable as the more expensive options, but it still does a great job as a rain jacket for light rain or emergencies.
- Lightweight
- Wind resistant
- Overview Guide
- 1 Week Itinerary
- Train Journeys
- Epic Drives
- Stunning Lakes
- Historic Castles
- Lauterbrunnen
- Grindelwald
- Chocolate Tours
- Swiss National Park
- Majestic Mountains
- Spectacular Waterfalls
- Famous Things
- Tasty Fondue
- 10 Day Itinerary
- Cherry Blossoms
- Tokyo Shrines
- Dos and Don’ts
- Osaka Guide
- Osaka Itinerary
- Osaka or Kyoto
- Kyoto Day Trips
- Matsumoto Castle
- Tokyo Luxury Hotels
- Island Hopping
- Best Campsites
- Driving Tips
- Beaune, France
- Barcelona Itinerary
- Spain Itinerary
- Greece Itinerary
- Italy Road Trips
- Berlin Day Trips
- Norway Northern Lights
- Netherlands National Parks
- Mostar, Bosnia
- Best Airlines
- Midwest Ski Resorts
- Florida RV Parks
- Washington RV Parks
- Oregon RV Parks
- Utah Camping
- Texas Camping
- Chicago National Parks
- East Coast National Parks
- Colorado National Parks
- Joshua Tree
- Yellowstone
- Alberta Hikes
- Flashlights
- Water Filters
- Sleeping Pads
- Solar Lanterns
- Tent Brands
- 4-Person Tents
- 4 Seasons Tents
- Backpacking Tents
- Beach Tents
- Cabin Tents
- Multi-room Tents
- Pop-up Tents
- Truck Bed Tents
- Underwear (Men)
- Backpacks Under $100
- Microspikes
- Boonie Hats
- In The World
- New Zealand
- Hardisde Luggage
- Lightweight Luggage
- Luggage Sets
- Spinner Luggage
- Durable Suitcases
- Duffel Bags
- Kids Luggage
- Teen Luggage
- Space Saving Luggage
- Business Carry-Ons
- Garment Carry-Ons
- Suitcases Under $50
- Travel Briefcase
- Zipperless Suitcases
- Rolling Briefcase
- Luggage Straps
- Luxury Brands
- American Tourister
- AmazonBasics
- Delsey Chatelet
- Anti-Theft Backpacks
- Backpacks Under $50
- Baby Carrier Backpacks
- Cooler Backpacks
- Backpacking Backpacks
- Climbing Backpacks
- Backpacks for Back Pain
- Beach Backpacks
- Hiking Backpacks
- Business Travel Backpacks
- Laptop Backpacks
- Backpacks for Tablets
- Commuter Backpacks
- Travel Backpacks (Men)
- Travel Backpacks (Women)
- Waterproof Backpacks
- Wheeled Backpacks
- Down Jackets
- Down Parkas
- Fleece Jackets
- Hardshell Jackets
- Rain Jackets
- Softshell Jackets
- Eco Friendly Jackets
- Gore Tex Alternatives
- Heated Jackets
- Lightweight Jackets
- 3-in-1 Waterproof Jackets
- Parajumper Jackets
- Rain Poncho
- Ski Jackets
- Travel Hoodies
- Travel Jackets
- Winter Coats
- Helly Hansen
- Mammut Jackets
- Patagonia Nanopuff
- Survival Jackets
- Flower Captions
- Waterfall Captions
- Tree Captions
- Sunset Captions
- Sunflower Captions
- Rainbow Captions
- Paddle Boarding Captions
- Hot Air Balloon Captions
- Kayaking Captions
- Airplane Captions For Instagram
- Forest Captions
- Living In Croatia
- Croatian Recipes
- Balkan Recipes
- Write For Us
Home > Guide To The Best Travel Products > Best Travel Rain Jackets
Best Travel Rain Jackets
Rain, rain, go away! But if it won’t, here we have found you the best lightweight rain jacket for travel! You’ll be dry and stylish, without a doubt.
That’s probably what you’ll be thinking if the heavens decide to open while you’re out and about, especially if you’re off on your travels. However, this planet of ours needs a little rain from time to time, so we need to plan for every eventuality.
When the weather isn’t quite cold enough for a full-on coat, yet it’s decided to start throwing it down with the wet stuff, a lightweight rain jacket is an answer to your weather-related prayers. You don’t have to sweat it out in a full-on coat, yet you’ll still be dry. This jacket also rolls up relatively compact, packs away in your bag, and doesn’t weigh you down.
Of course, everyone has cottoned on to the fact that these jackets are the thing to have in your bag during the shoulder seasons, which means there are countless on the market. If you want to purchase the best packable rain jacket for your needs, you need to shop around – and we’ve made it easy.
Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!
Best Packable Rain Coat Reviews
Here we’ve taken the top travel raincoats and reviewed them for you. We’re sure you’ll find one you’ll love to pack with you on your next adventure .
Arcteryx Zeta SL Gore-Tex Rain Jacket
Best waterproof jacket.
This is a stylish, outdoorsy jacket for women who want to stay dry while out and about! This jacket is made of high-quality Gore-Tex material, available in eight different color options, which is waterproof and windproof. The material is designed to be breathable, which is ideal in warmer temperatures or tropical conditions. It is incredibly lightweight, so you can easily pack it away in your bag when not in use.
This is a perfect jacket for women who are likely to be out hiking or doing outdoor activities and who want to have a sporty look while staying dry at the same time.
Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket
Best men’s rain jacket.
Columbia is a big-name brand, so you know you’re getting high quality here. This jacket isn’t specifically designed for extreme outdoor activities, but it is a good everyday jacket to opt for. The jacket is designed for men who want to stay dry while doing general activities.
The jacket is made of a nylon and polyester combination with solid zipper closure. Two side pockets zip up, and an elastic hemline for warmth. The cuffs are also elastic, and there is a chin guard for when the weather takes a real turn for the worst. It is waterproof and will keep you dry, even in a severe downpour.
Columbia Pardon My Trench Women’s Raincoat
Not all lightweight rain jackets have to be sporty or outdoorsy in appearance, as this particular women’s jacket shows. This is a trench coat-style jacket that is very fashionable and is available in 15 different color options. The coat has press studs up the front and a belt in the center to add shape to any outfit. The longer length keeps you warm and gives you extra fashion kudos!
Of course, this jacket comes from a big brand name, so it’s about quality and how it looks. The jacket is made of 100% polyester, so it’s incredibly durable and has two zipped pockets on the sides. A hood on this jacket adjusts for a bespoke fit, and the cuffs adjust to your specific size.
KUHL Women’s Jetstream Trench Rain Jacket
This jacket is ideal for women who will likely be out in downpours while exploring or sightseeing. The jacket is made of high-quality Nylon Ripstop, which means it’s super-durable and isn’t going to rip or tear accidentally. It’s also breathable, so you don’t have t worry about feeling a little sweaty in warm temperature downpours.
This trench coat style is a little longer and has a zip-up front with a hood at the back. The cuffs are adjustable and elasticated, with two zip-up pockets on either side. The jacket has a fitted style, so it is stylish, despite being less fashion and more performance-focused.
Brands We Use And Trust
Marmot men’s precip rain jacket.
This jacket is available in a massive number of different colors, making it a fashionable choice no matter what outfit you choose to wear it with. The jacket is made of 100% Nylon, so it’s durable, robust, and breathable. The Fabric is NanoPro, which means it will stand up to even snow with a waterproof layer. Two side pockets zip up, and a back pocket too. The waist is elasticated for a comfortable fit.
The neck section zips up to the chin for extra warmth, making this a good jacket for men who are likely to be outdoors quite often while exploring. It is breathable and protects against extreme wet weather, making it a quality option.
Marmot Minimalist Rain Coat
This is an excellent quality lightweight rain jacket that looks incredibly stylish and comes from a big brand name. The coat is available in 11 different color options and is made of high-quality Gore-Tex material with Paclite Technology. This means no water will get inside at all, and it won’t tear or rip easily.
The jacket has an adjustable hood to give you better visibility and protection. The zips allow you to ensure more air is getting inside, adding breathability into the mix. The hemline has a drawstring for a bespoke fit, and there are zippered hand pockets and a chest pocket, all of which are water-resistant.
North Face Men’s Fanorak Rain Jacket
Everyone knows the name North Face instantly, which should give you some idea of the quality you’re dealing with. This particular jacket is unique and comes in several color combinations to provide you with extra fashion status.
The jacket is made of strong nylon, which is water and wind-resistant. There is an adjustable hood, and the jacket zips right up to the chin for extra warmth and protection. The unique thing is that you don’t need an extra bag to store this jacket in when you’re not wearing it, as it keeps in the built-in fanny pack. You clip it to your waist and takeout out when the rain starts pouring. When unpacked, this turns into a kangaroo-style pocket to the front so that you can store all your things, and this also zips up for extra protection.
North Face Men’s Venture 2 Rain Jacket
This is another North Face jacket and, therefore, another high-quality option. The jacket is made of strong nylon and polyester in combination with Shell DryVent technology. This means that the jacket is waterproof to a high degree and manages to keep you cool with breathability as standard. You can choose between several color contract options here, all of which are a combination of white, grey, or black, so they’re all extremely wearable options.
The jacket zips up and then clasps closed at the front with a hook and loop. The hood is adjustable for extra visibility and warmth, and the material is also ripstop, so it has double protection in terms of durability. There are two zipped pockets on either side to store your items.
North Face Women’s Fanorak Packable Rain Coat
This is the women’s version of the men’s Fanorak we have already reviewed, and it is an equal competitor for the title of the best lightweight rain jacket. Again, it’s a big brand name and comes in several different color options. The jacket packs away into a fanny pack, so you can easily take it anywhere, turning it into a front kangaroo pocket when unpacked.
The jacket is made of 100% polyester, meaning it’s strong and breathable at the same time. The cuffs are elasticated for a bespoke fit, and the hood is also adjustable, so you can keep yourself warm and make sure you can see correctly at the same time. This jacket is also windproof, so it’s ideal for storms you had no idea were heading your way!
Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket
This is an excellent choice of everyday jacket, so you can grab it out of your bag if the rain falls unexpectedly. The jacket is made of nylon woven material, meaning it’s not only lightweight but it’s also durable and waterproof to a high degree. The jacket has a zip-up chest pocket and two side pockets, with elasticated cuffs and an elastic hemline for a bespoke fit. You can choose between several different color options.
The Pertex Shield technology built into the fabric means it’s waterproof and breathable, helping you stay cool in the rain, whatever it is you’re out and about doing. This is a very stylish option, and it would look great with jeans!
Outdoor Research Interstellar Rain Coat
This is an exceptionally stylish lightweight rain jacket, to the point where you might want to wear it whether it’s raining or not! The only downside is the price, as this is the most expensive of the jackets we’ve listed so far.
You can choose between several color options, and the jacket is made of 100% nylon for durability. The coat has ripstop technology, so it’s not going to rip or tear while wearing or packed away, and it is also breathable to allow air to circulate while you’re wearing it. This jacket has an adjustable hood, elasticized cuffs, and two zipped pockets on either side. Despite the price, this is a very fashionable and high-quality jacket to go for
Patagonia Men’s Torrentshell Packable Rian Jacket
This is another huge brand name, so you know you’re getting quality. Choose from several different color options in a jacket that is 2.5 layers waterproof and highly durable to boot. The jacket is made of 100% nylon and has a two-way hood with a visor that rolls down or back up for protection and visibility.
The neck is micro-fleece lined, and there is a zip up front with hook and loop closures on the cuffs for a close fit. The chin guard zips up for extra protection, and the two pockets are fleece lined to keep you warm when the rain falls.
REI Co-op Drypoint GTX
Best raincoat for men.
This is an incredibly stylish lightweight rain jacket for men and one which will look the part whether it’s raining or not! With a zip-up front, elasticated cuffs, and hemline, the coat fits snugly and in a streamlined design to avoid bulk.
The jacket is made of Gore-Tex material, so it’s waterproof and breathable and can stand up to the most substantial downpour while you’re out and about. This unisex jacket comes in several colors and has side pockets that zip up to keep your smaller items safe. The hood also has three-point adjustability, so you can ensure a bespoke fit for staying dry and visibility.
What To Consider When Buying A Packable Rain Jacket
Before you take the plunge and purchase a lightweight/packable rain jacket, consider the following features.
Make sure you opt for a coat that is made of durable fabric and one that isn’t going to rip on the slightest sharp edge. You’ll find most jackets claim to be either water repellent/resistant or that they are waterproof. There is a difference, and waterproof is the better option of the two if you’re out for long periods. However, if you’re wandering around for a short time, water repellent/resistant is more than adequate.
You should also consider whether the fabric is breathable, especially if you’re in a tropical or warm climate and it starts to rain.
Of course, you want to look good, so make sure you go for a jacket in color and style that will ‘go’ with most outfits. Avoid bright colors if you want flexibility in your style options, and stick to a shade that matches many outfits.
Functionality
Check for additional features, such as a hood, how many pockets it has, the type of zipper, etc. This entirely depends on what kind of activity you’re going to be wearing it in; if you’re sightseeing or walking around and the weather takes a turn, a general, lightweight jacket will be enough. However, if you’re hiking, you need a coat that isn’t going to rip easily and which has breathability included.
We also have a lot of packing and travel product tips, including the following.
- Comfortable Flat Shoes For Travel Reviews
- Best Travel Hair Dryer
- Best Compression Socks For Flying
- Best Family Passport Holder
- Best Spinner Luggage
- Best Travel Umbrellas To Keep You Dry
- Best Toddler Travel Bed Reviews (aka Travel Crib)
- Best Baby Carrier For Travel Review
- Best Packable Ultralight Down Jacket + Bonus Ultra-Light Winter Packing List
- Best Travel Blenders on The Market
- Long Haul Flight Essentials: Carry on Packing List to Travel Lighter
- Best Travel Pillow for Long Haul Flights:
- The Best Travel Flat Iron Reviews
- Travel Cross Body Bag: The Best Cross Body Bags For Travel
- Best Travel Pants For Women
- Best Shoes For Travel
- Ultimate Guide to Buying The Best Travel Wallet
- Ultimate Guide to Buying Packing Cubes
- What to Wear on a Long Haul Flight
- Croatia Packing List: What to Pack for Croatia
- Our Guide to Travel Necessities
- Smart Luggage Tracker Tags
- Best Noise-Canceling Headphones For Kids
- Best Travel Garment Bags
- Best Hanging Toiletry Bags
- Best Travel Jewelry Organizers
- Best Luggage For Kids
- Guide To The Best Diving Masks
- Best Travel Water Filters
- Best Travel Coffee Makers
Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie
Subscribe To Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List & All Our Best Tips!
Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List!
Subscribe Now For Instant Access To Stress-Free Packing
The 10 Best Women’s Rain Jackets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Stay dry in style with our favorite waterproof picks
We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .
Tripsavvy / Alli Waataja
Whether you want a waterproof coat for an upcoming adventure, you’re traveling somewhere with a reputation for precipitation, or you just need a replacement for your go-to coat at home, choosing a new rain jacket can feel like an overwhelming task. There are so many types to choose from, each with a different intended function, level of protection, list of features, and price point.
Charlie Berg, Product Manager for renowned technical apparel brand Outdoor Research, says, “The first thing a customer should consider is what they will be using the jacket for.” Do you need a premium, brand-name rain jacket with the ultimate amount of protection and insulation? Or will a lighter, more packable, and less expensive water-resistant shell suffice?
We trialed 23 of the most popular options to help you make an informed decision. Each one was tested for water resistance (we wore each jacket in the shower), design, comfort, breathability, and value in our Brooklyn lab, with scores used to determine the winners of categories ranging from Best Active to Best Style.
TripSavvy’s Picks
How we tested.
- What to Look For
Why Trust TripSavvy
Best overall, columbia switchback iii jacket.
- Ease of Use 5 /5
- Comfort 5 /5
- Design 5 /5
Lightweight and packable
Great freedom of movement
Wide choice of colors and sizes
Available in standard and plus sizes, the Columbia Women’s Switchback III Jacket achieved perfect scores across the board. Meant as a lightweight layer for protection from unexpected showers (and especially for active use), it consists of a waterproof nylon shell with a moisture-wicking mesh lining. The absence of sealed seams or a separate waterproof membrane mean it’s probably not the best choice for consistently inclement weather—but these sacrifices also make it considerably cheaper and more packable than many other options on this list. It even folds away into its own hand pocket.
We found the jacket light and not at all cumbersome. We were able to perform a series of jumping jacks without experiencing any restriction or increase in body temperature, and we never once felt overheated or stuffy. It’s not insulative, so you’ll need to wear layers underneath on cold days—something that’s possible thanks to the jacket’s relaxed fit. During our waterproof tests, droplets beaded immediately and collected to slide right off. Other features include an adjustable, stow-away hood and adjustable cuffs and hems. Choose from a rainbow of colors including fuchsia, harbor blue, and stone green.
Materials: Nylon shell, polyester mesh lining | Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL, standard, plus
Best Waterproof
Outdoor research aspire ii gore-tex jacket.
Outdoor Research
- Water Resistance 5 /5
- Breathability 5 /5
Next-level waterproofing
Breathable, unrestrictive comfort
Inclusive sizing
The award-winning Women’s Aspire Gore-Tex Jacket from Outdoor Research has been recently updated with a longer length and inclusive sizing from XS up to 4X. It offers exceptional protection from wind and rain thanks to a best-in-class Gore-Tex membrane, fully taped seams, an internal front storm flap, and YKK Aquaguard zippers. We found that whether we applied water with a spray bottle, a dropper, or in the shower, it slid off the jacket before it even had time to bead properly. Not a drop reached the inside at any point and a quick shake dried the jacket almost completely. Even better, it easily retained its warmth when wet.
The jacket also has a durable, water-shedding polyester shell. Despite the sturdiness of its build, we found it lightweight and easy to fold. We loved how comfortable and unrestrictive it was, and felt that it would be ideal for all seasons thanks to TorsoFlo zippered vents that extend all the way from hem to biceps. These vents also allow you to wear the coat poncho-style over a backpack on the trail. Other features range from zippered chest and hand pockets to a fully adjustable hood, hem, and cuffs, while colors range from lavender to ultramarine.
Materials: 50D polyester shell, Gore-Tex Paclite Technology 2L membrane | Weight: 11.7 ounces | Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X
Helly Hansen Long Belfast Jacket
Helly Hansen
- Design 4.5 /5
Flattering extra-length silhouette
Warm even when wet
Adjustable hood keeps hair and face dry
No interior pocket
We love the stylish, extra-length silhouette of the Helly Hansen Women’s Long Belfast Jacket, which comes in a range of flattering colors including black, white, and navy. We think it’s the ideal pick for someone in search of a rain jacket for urban sightseeing or strolls in the park, but perhaps not so much for high-intensity activities. The extra length also traps body heat for added warmth while the brand’s two-layer Helly Tech Protection technology effectively keeps out wind and rain. There was no absorption during our waterproof tests and the adjustable hood did a great job of keeping our face and hair dry.
We were impressed by the quality of the coat’s construction and the fact that we still had good freedom of movement despite its length. We were able to perform jumping jacks without any hindrance. When the jacket was wet, it still provided noticeable warmth; however, we’d recommend sizing up if you want to be able to fit winter layers underneath. Other commendable features include the comfortable, quick-dry lining, the zippered hand and chest pockets, and the adjustable cuffs and hem.
Materials: Polyester | Weight: 1.5 pounds | Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
Best Active
Outdoor research aspire super stretch jacket.
Stretch panels for ultimate mobility
Full-length vents guarantee breathability
Recycled, bluesign-approved materials
Designed with top-tier freedom of movement for mountaineers, climbers, and hikers, the Outdoor Research Women’s Aspire Super Stretch Jacket is a highly technical option with a price tag to match. After testing this jacket, we believe the cost is 100 percent worth it as it feels high quality, performs well, and looks stylish to boot. As soon as we put it on, we felt confident that we’d have complete water protection and enough breathability for any athletic activity. The jacket is thin, so you’ll need to size up if you want to add layers.
During our waterproof tests, water beads rolled right off the jacket. There was no absorption and when we shook the jacket it was immediately dry. This is thanks to the fully seam-taped Gore-Tex Paclite Titanium Technology construction. Strategic stretch panels allow the jacket to mirror your natural movements for unrivaled mobility, while TorsoFlo zippered vents that run from armpit to hem keep you cool even when you’re working hard. Available in four colors including snow and rhubarb, the jacket also scores sustainability points with PFCec-free DWR.
Materials: 50D polyester shell, Gore-Tex Paclite Titanium Technology 2L membrane, Gore-Tex Stretch Technology 2L backer, nylon/polyester/elastane panels | Weight: 12.7 ounces | Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Most Comfortable
Kühl women's stretch voyager jacket.
- Water Resistance 4.5 /5
- Comfort 4.5 /5
Option for a stylish cinched look
Substantial hood with a reinforced brim
Soft inner lining feels good against bare skin
Made with 2.5 layers of soft, silent, and highly flexible polyester, the Kuhl Stretch Voyagr Jacket stands out for its high level of comfort and stylish aesthetics. The smooth-touch inner membrane feels great against bare skin, with just the right amount of stretch and none of that sticky feeling we’re accustomed to with budget rain jackets. We loved the easy-glide, two-way zipper, and the fact that water beaded immediately and rolled off easily during our waterproof tests. Some did appear to absorb into the exterior, but not a drop made it through to the interior.
The fully seam-sealed jacket also offers an adjustable hem, cuffs, and hood for a customized fit. We found the hood was substantial enough to provide complete coverage, while the reinforced brim prevented it from dipping and obscuring our vision. The drawstrings on either side of the waist were another highlight, allowing us to cinch the jacket in for a more flattering silhouette when desired. Breathability was proven when a series of jumping jacks left us sweat-free, although you’d need to layer up for cold winter walks. There are seven colorful options to choose from, such as sage and cardinal, all with reflective accents for after-dark safety.
Materials: Polyester | Weight: 11.2 ounces | Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 1X
Most Packable
Marmot precip rain jacket.
- Design 4 /5
- Breathability 4 /5
- Value 4.5 /5
Very lightweight
Adjustable hood, hem, and cuffs
Environmentally friendly fabrics
Slightly boring color choices
If packability is a priority, you’ll love the Marmot Women’s PreCip Eco Jacket for its ability to stow away into its own pocket. Once secured, it fits easily into a fanny pack, purse, or small backpack compartment. It’s also a great pick for the environmentally conscious traveler, with an updated, PFC-free, recycled NanoPro shell. The jacket is fully seam-taped for added durability and waterproofing, and offers a patented dry-touch finish. During our tests, water beaded instantly upon touching its surface and no droplets were absorbed.
The jacket is so lightweight that at first, we were skeptical about how well it would perform. Once those fears were allayed, we delighted in the full range of motion it afforded and the fact that we could jump around without getting too warm. Ventilating PitZips add further breathability for humid weather or high-intensity activities. We’d recommend additional layers underneath (which there is space for) on cold days. The jacket is completed by an adjustable, stow-away hood, an adjustable hem and cuffs, and zippered hand pockets. The only downsides? A slightly sticky main zipper and a muted choice of colors.
Materials: NanoPro recycled nylon ripstop | Weight: 9 ounces | Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Rains Long Jacket
- Water Resistance 3.5 /5
Soft, silent, sleek fabric
Superbly comfortable
Chic, urban aesthetic
Snap-button closure may leak
The Long Jacket from Rains is the ideal choice for those who prefer a more elongated look or the extra protection provided by a thigh-length hem. It’s fashioned from lightweight, soft-touch PU fabric that looks sleek and is super lightweight (especially considering the jacket’s heavy-duty build). It’s also silent with none of that annoying crinkling that defines cheaper rain jackets. The on-trend, slightly androgynous aesthetic includes slanting flap pockets and a fishtail hem for an urban style well suited to commuters or city-breakers.
Although we found the jacket surprisingly flexible given its length (we were able to perform our jumping jacks unrestricted), we wouldn’t recommend it for high-octane activities or seriously wet weather. Granted, water beaded well and was repelled during our spray bottle and dropper tests, but when we wore the coat in the shower, some leaked inside the collar and through the snap button placket. Breathability isn’t an issue thanks to under-arm eyelets and concealed vents in the back yoke. Color choices include sober black, metallic blue laser, pale pink candy, and more.
Materials: Polyester with polyurethane coating | Waterproofing: 4,000 millimeters | Weight: 14.1 ounces | Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Best Splurge
Kari traa women's voss jacket.
Underarm vents for superior air circulation
Excellent hood coverage
Subtle stretch for added mobility
High price tag
If you have the budget to spare, the Kari Traa Voss Jacket is an investment that we feel is well worth its high price tag. Made from double-layer recycled polyester, the material is super lightweight yet still thick enough that we didn’t feel cold at any point during our tests. It’s strong and durable, easy to fold, and eminently packable. We found that water drops held their shape and then rolled right off, while the articulated sleeve and subtle amount of stretch provided enviable freedom of movement. We even felt we could easily pull off a few cartwheels!
The waist, hem, hood, and inside cuffs are all adjustable for a perfect, customized fit. We particularly loved the hood and how far it extended to keep our face and hair completely dry. The slightly elasticated wrists were another bonus, stopping any water from leaking into our sleeves. If we had to pick a favorite feature, though? The underarm vents and side zips, which make the jacket sufficiently ventilated for even the highest-impact activities. The front pockets are large enough to hold a water bottle, the jacket packs away into its own carry bag, and there are two colors to choose from: murk green and prim pink.
Materials: Polyester shell and lining | Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
Others We Tested
Eddie bauer women's rainpac jacket.
Eddie Bauer
- Comfort 3 /5
Long cut provides rear coverage
Effective wind and water protection
Smooth-running zippers
Fit may be a little too relaxed for some
Although it didn’t merit first place in any of the categories above, we really liked the Eddie Bauer Women’s RainPac Jacket and feel it could be a worthwhile alternative for those that prefer a relaxed fit and traditional aesthetic. Made from 2.5 layers of waterproof polyester, the jacket is fully seam-sealed with a moisture-shedding StormRepel DWR finish. We found that water beaded right away and did not absorb at all after five minutes. We also stayed completely dry during the shower test.
We could feel the cold through the fabric, however, so layering would be necessary in cold weather. The jacket’s deliberately baggy fit gives plenty of room to do so. It also helps with breathability, even though there are no dedicated venting features. We liked the adjustable hood and hem, and the fact that the latter is long enough in the back to keep your rear dry. Other features include smooth-running zippers and the ability to pack into itself to create a functional daypack. The jacket comes in two colors (black and topaz) and a wide range of sizes.
Materials: Polyester shell and membrane | Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, petite, regular, tall, plus
Lole Piper Oversized Rain Jacket
Fashionable aesthetic
Converts into a packable bookbag
Choice of gorgeous colors
May not be waterproof in extreme weather
The Lole Piper Oversized Rain Jacket is a potentially great match for fashionable ladies wanting a coat for occasional showers in the city. It’s made of waterproof 10K fabric and is fully seam-sealed. During our dropper test, water beaded and sat on top of the jacket’s surface. During the spray bottle test, some water pooled and appeared to seep into the fabric. While the jacket remained dry on the inside, this made us a little nervous to recommend it for use in a serious rainstorm. The hood provides good protection though, and the cuffs and waist are adjustable.
We found this jacket comfortable with plenty of space for layering. This is a good thing, since we got a little cold once the coat was wet. Freedom of movement was good and we were able to perform jumping jacks easily. We also liked how light the jacket was despite its long length and balloon sleeves. It’s great for travel, converting into a packable bookbag. Lastly, there’s a deep interior pocket large enough for a wallet and phone. Colors range from port to limoges (royal blue). Consider sizing down for a more tailored fit.
Materials: Polyester shell, polyurethane backer | Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Our top pick is the Columbia Women’s Switchback III Jacket for its combination of lightweight protection, comfort, and affordability. If you have a larger budget and need a more technical solution for athletic activities in extreme weather, we recommend the Outdoor Research Women’s Aspire Super Stretch Jacket .
For this article, we tested 23 popular rain jackets for water resistance, design, comfort, breathability, and value in our Brooklyn lab. The tests for each were the same. First, we put the jacket on and zipped it up to get an idea of the overall quality and comfort. Then we tested all of its features, from zippers and adjustable hoods to pit vents and pockets. Next, we performed 10 jumping jacks to evaluate the jacket’s freedom of movement and how breathable it was.
We laid the jacket flat on a table and sprayed it with water three times using a spray bottle. We also used an eye dropper to pour 2 milliliters onto the waterproof shell. We evaluated how well the water beaded, whether any absorbed after a five-minute waiting period, and how dry the jacket was after we shook the water off.
The next step was to wear the jacket in the shower for 30 seconds with the hood up to test whether any water leaked through. We also evaluated how well the hood protected our face and hair from getting wet. We kept the jacket on for five minutes afterward to test whether any residual water was absorbed and also to see how well it maintained warmth. Finally, we hung the jacket up and checked back the following morning to see how well it had dried.
What to Look for in Women’s Rain Jackets
Waterproofing.
When purchasing a rain jacket, it’s important to understand the difference between a water-resistant, single-layer windbreaker and a jacket with two or more layers, including a truly waterproof membrane. Windbreakers are lighter, more packable, and more affordable, and may well be sufficient if you’re looking for protection from occasional showers only. They don’t offer any insulation, so they’re best for warmer weather or worn in larger sizes to allow for layering underneath.
If you need more serious protection from frequent, heavy rain, upgrade to a proper rain jacket. These are typically built with a water-repellent exterior shell; an inner waterproof membrane; and sometimes a soft, insulative backer. They are heavier, more expensive, and often (though not always) less breathable. Outdoor Research’s Charlie Berg recommends looking for “brand-name technologies like Gore-Tex that are well known, work very well, and have been vetted by companies that focus purely on creating waterproof fabrics.”
Breathability
The general rule of thumb used to be that the more protection a jacket offered, the less breathable it was. This isn’t always true anymore, thanks to the development of technical fabrics such as Outdoor Research’s AscentShell, which uses microscopic holes in the waterproof membrane to allow air to circulate without letting rain in. Other ways of introducing breathability include full-length zippers, underarm eyelet holes, and zippered pit vents (the gold standard according to Berg). He points out that “choosing a jacket with adequate venting allows you to go for fabrics that prioritize protection over breathability for use in all scenarios.”
Rain jackets come in a variety of fits from athletic to universal or oversized. The right choice for you depends partly on your aesthetic preferences, but also on what you intend to use the jacket for. If you’re an active hiker, climber, or cycler with no need to fit heavy layers underneath, a streamlined active fit that’s specifically cut for maximum freedom of movement is ideal. But if you plan to use your jacket for sightseeing or running errands in a chilly climate, a roomier fit may be better for accommodating additional layers. Berg recommends considering the longest layers you’re likely to wear underneath and making sure your jacket is long enough to cover them.
Like most outdoor gear, rain jackets can get expensive. In a high-end jacket, you’re paying for technical (sometimes proprietary) materials and waterproofing, and, often, the cachet and dependability of a respected brand name. If you live in a climate with frequent or intense wet weather, saving up for a premium, ultra-protective rain jacket is probably a worthwhile investment. But if you’re just looking for something you can throw into your vacation backpack in case of the occasional tropical shower, you can probably get away with saving money on a jacket that’s a little less technical, lighter, and more packable.
As their name suggests, windbreakers are primarily designed to block wind. They’re made of a single layer of water-resistant fabric that will offer some protection from light rain exposure, but is unlikely to stand up to hours of wet weather. They are lighter and less expensive than rain jackets. As Berg points out, “true waterproof fabrics have at least two layers: an outer shell usually made of woven polyester or nylon that sheds water, and an interior waterproof film or coating.” Some rain jackets also have a backer layer that provides added durability and insulation. Rain jackets are typically heavier and more expensive than windbreakers, but are designed to keep you dry in continuous wet weather.
Care guidelines differ from one rain jacket to the next depending on the materials and construction used. You should always check the label for the manufacturer’s instructions or look for them on the product website. Generally speaking, though, you can machine wash many rain jackets at a low temperature using the delicate setting. You should only use non-bio detergent and remember to leave out the fabric softener as it can break down the waterproof coating. Tumble-drying may also cause damage, so unless care instructions say otherwise, air dry your rain jacket instead. It should be completely dry before you pack it away to avoid mold.
If water is no longer beading on your rain jacket’s exterior shell like it should, there’s no need to retire it from your activewear lineup—you just need to re-waterproof it. You can use a spray-on or wash-in, durable water repellent (DWR) to achieve this: They’re readily available online or at your local outdoor store. Follow the individual product instructions carefully to achieve the best results. If you go for a wash-in DWR, be sure to thoroughly clean out your washing machine’s detergent tray first to avoid residual soap affecting the process. If you use a spray, hang your jacket on the washing line first so you can get an even, all-round coating.
Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert and Commerce Updates Editor. Having emigrated from South Africa to Scotland in recent years, she has a new appreciation for the value of a good rain jacket (especially as she’s become an increasingly keen hiker and all-weather beach-goer since making the move). All products included in this article were tested by TripSavvy travel experts in our Brooklyn lab and we also consulted the expert opinion of Outdoor Research Product Manager Charlie Berg.
The 8 Best Men’s Rain Jackets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The 11 Best Waterproofing Sprays of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The 7 Best Winter Coats for Men of 2022, Tested and Reviewed
The 5 Best Boys’ Ski Jackets of 2023
The 10 Best Patagonia Jackets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The 10 Best Mountaineering Gloves of 2024
The 12 Best Snowboard Jackets of 2024
The 6 Best Heated Jackets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The 10 Best Snowboarding Gloves of 2024
The 10 Best Rain Suits of 2023
The 13 Best Men’s Ski Jackets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The 9 Best Women’s Winter Coats of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The Best Women’s Ski Jackets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The Best Swimsuits for Women of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The 10 Best Softshell Jackets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The Best Rain Jackets of 2024
Whether you're splashing about town or trekking through a monsoon, these are the best rain jackets of 2024.
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.
For more than five years now, we have shouldered close to 50 different rain jackets in just about every different name for rain — pulling together everything from the best rain jackets for bumping around town, to the best ultralight shells for long-distance thru-hiking, and even techy rainwear for the sport-specific demands of trail running, cycling, and climbing. Senior Editor Nick Belcaster leads our efforts, and never lets a good rain shower go to waste.
During testing, we aimed for the worst weather windows to challenge the waterproofing, livability, and rough-and-tumble durability of these jackets. We paid close attention to performance over entire seasons, and if the weather failed to materialize, we weren’t above busting out the garden hose. Every jacket was backpacked in, worn hard, and put away wet.
Scroll through to see all of our recommended buys or jump to the jacket 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 .
Editor’s Note: We updated our rain jacket guide on November 2, 2023, to add additional information on rain jacket categories and waterproof membranes, and ensure that our selection is still current.
- Best Overall Rain Jacket: Outdoor Research Foray Superstretch Jacket
- Best Budget Rain Jacket: REI Co-op XeroDry GT X
- Best Value 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
Outdoor Research Foray Superstretch Jacket
- 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.
- Integrated stretch panel
- Full torso-length side zips
- PFC-free DWR treatment
- Membrane breathability on the lower end
- Slick-feeling interior
In creating a better rain jacket, there are a number of different levers to pull to tilt the scales toward your ideal. Practice however shows that this produces many niche jackets: an ultralight shell that doesn’t breathe great, or an armored hardshell that moves like a tarpaulin.
That’s why we were so impressed at how even-keeled the Outdoor Research Foray and Aspire Superstretch Jackets ($300) 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
- Pit zips No
- Weight 12.5 oz.
- Budget price
Breathability
- Not ideal for city use
REI often focuses on gear to help folks get into the outdoors, especially those on a budget or who are dabbling on a first excursion. But even at its budget price, the Co-Op’s XeroDry GTX jacket ($179) performs more like a veteran piece.
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
- Waterproof material Proprietary H₂No 3L
- Waterproof rating 20,000 mm/24 hrs.
- Breathability rating Unpublished
- Weight 13.9 oz.
Sustainability
- Plastic-y feel
- Fluorinated DWR finish
Recently updated, Patagonia’s Torrentshell 3L Jacket ($179) gained a three-layer H2No waterproof membrane, something that many other jackets at the price point can’t match.
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 that Patagonia has the Torrentshell 3L Jacket priced 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.
Read Review: A Classic Shell Jacket Gets New Tech: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket Review
Arc’teryx Beta Jacket
- Waterproof membrane GORE-TEX 3L
- Breathability rating 17,000 g/m²
- Fit Active/Slim
- Weight 10.6 oz.
- Burly construction
- Lightweight design
- High-quality fit and finish
- Fabric crinkle
From your morning commute to a coastal deluge, the Arc’teryx Beta Jacket ($400) ticks the boxes for our needs when it comes to a rain jacket that can simply do it all.
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
- Waterproof membrane GORE-TEX INFINIUM 2L
- Waterproof rating 30,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 43,000 g/m²
- Weight 6.4 oz.
- Full-featured at UL weight
- Impressive breathability
- Smart patterning reduces seam lines
- Three-way adjustable hood
- Interior can feel slick
- Left hand zipper
At a claimed 6.2 ounces (and even less on our own scales), Montbell certainly had weight on the brain when they crafted the Versalite Jacket ($249). Part of their UL Hiking selection , the Versalite impressed us during testing not only with the weight it lacked, but also the features it’s studded with.
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
- Waterproof material Proprietary Janji 2.5L
- Breathability rating 30,000 g/m²
- Weight 8 oz.
- Lightweight
- Waterproofing
- Good for high-aerobic activities like running
- Not as durable
One of our favorite jackets for rainy and windy weather, this runner-specific jacket packs down small but also packs a punch in terms of features.
To start, the Janji 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
- Waterproof material Proprietary FUTURELIGHT 3L
- Waterproof rating Unpublished
- Breathability rating 75,000 g/m²
- Weight 11.9 oz.
- Excellent breathability
- Cold defense
- Limited stretch
- No pit zips
Many brands in recent years have begun prioritizing breathability in their rain shells, and The North Face uses electricity to manipulate the air and moisture permeability of its offerings. FUTURELIGHT marks TNF’s take on this air-permeable process, and by our own tests, it marks a step forward in waterproof-breathable technology .
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 D ryzzle 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 FUTURELIGH T 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.
Norrøna Falketind Paclite Rain Jacket
- Waterproof material GORE-TEX Paclite Plus 2.5L
- Weight 9.1 oz.
- Front chest ventilation zipper works well to move moisture
- Climbing helmet compatible hood
- More articulated fit than many other jackets on our list
- Only a single napoleon chest pocket
Blurring the line between rain jacket and their more climbing-oriented cousins, the Norrøna Falketind Paclite Rain Jacket ($349) is a hardshell jacket in everything but the membrane, meaning you get all of the mountain-ready cut and features, with a lighter packed weight and compressed size — perfect for taking with you anywhere.
The 2.5-layer GORE-TEX Paclite Plus membrane used is a notch above the typical Paclite, in that it incorporates a less slick backer and printed dots on the interior to better move moisture out of the jacket. The breathability will still be on the lesser side when compared to other GORE-TEX membranes at 15,000 g/m², but the waterproofing is just as strong at 28,000 mm.
In lieu of typical under-arm pit zips, Norrøna went with a novel solution that we haven’t seen before, and that’s zippered front chest ventilation. This zipper (separate from the full closure zipper) runs a full 12 inches and opens up the jacket to fresh air, all without splitting the jacket entirely and leading to a floppy shell. During testing, our reviewers found that this moved air nicely through the jacket.
With a technical fit, this jacket doesn’t flap about in strong winds, and retains much of the technical articulation needed to pull off any move necessary — be it on the glacier or on the trail. The hood is sized to accommodate a climbing helmet, and adjusts with a single pull on the back of the head.
Compared to the Arc’teryx Beta Jacket , the Falketind Paclite does have a few advantages. For one, the Falketind implements mechanical ventilation into the build, which is something the Beta is missing out on. The Falketind also slides in $50 cheaper, though it does miss out on the twin hand pockets, and better 3-layer GORE-TEX membrane that the Beta has.
If you’re looking for a jacket that will stand up to the rough stuff, but is still packable enough to make it into your bag on every outing, the Norrøna Falketind Paclite puts up the good fight.
Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 Jacket
- Waterproof material Pertex Shield 2.5L
- Waterproof rating 20,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 20,000 g/m²
- Weight 13.2 oz.
- Feature-rich
- Less intuitive left-hand zipper
- 2.5-layer membrane needs pit zips down for added breathability
They say you can’t have your cake and eat it too, but the Downpour Plus 2.0 Jacket ($195) sure does get close. Combining an admirable balance of waterproofness/breathability, features, and price, this Rab rain jacket strikes a near-perfect balance across the spectrum and is easily among the best in our testing.
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 Review: Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 Jacket Review: A Versatile Shell That’s Ready for All 50 Names for Rain
Patagonia Storm10 Jacket
- Material construction 20D 3L H2No Performance Standard
- Waterproof rating (mm) 20,000
- Breathability rating (g/m²) Unavailable
- Pockets Two handwarming, one chest pocket
- Weight 8.3 oz.
- Best for Dry climates, volcano skiing, alpine rock climbing
- Very lightweight for a 3-layer membrane jacket
- Great packability with hang loop
- Built-in RECCO reflector
- Simple but effective hood adjustability
- Thinner face fabric
- Breathability can be overwhelmed by high-output activities
Built for moving through the mountains, the Patagonia Storm10 jacket ($329) is the beefed-up sibling of the Torrentshell, making use of the same 3-layer H2No membrane, but in a much more packable and capable profile. This jacket lands squarely in between a hardshell and a rain jacket, but with a sub-10-ounce weight, you’d hardly guess that it’s got such chops.
The Storm10 sits among the more technical rain jackets on our list, with the Arc’teryx Beta just edging it out in overall burl-factor. Both jackets sport a 3-layer membrane, but the Beta has a slightly thicker skin (30-denier to the Storm10’s 20D), and a slightly higher waterproof rating. In testing, we found these jackets both excelled in the same use profile: perfect for off-trail, mountainous adventures where you’ll need every ounce of protection.
On top of the high-quality 20,000 mm waterproofing, the Storm10 adds a number of savvy features that ensure the jacket isn’t held back when you want to push into new territories. The hood is helmet-compatible, meaning it’ll fit over a climbing or ski helmet, and it also sports a RECCO reflector. And when you want to stash the jacket away, it stuffs into its own chest pocket, and has an integrated hang-loop for clipping to the back of a climbing harness.
Alas, it can’t all be roses, and the rain jacket is unfortunately lacking in the pit zips department. During our testing in a particularly rainy Pacific Northwest spring, casual hiking was manageable while fully zipped up, but turning up the cadence did cause some moisture pile-up. We’ll add it to the wish list for now, which is mighty short otherwise.
Ideal for those who want a rain jacket to do it all in, the Patagon ia Storm10 offers an adaptable shell that has the muscle to back it up for when the skies open.
Outdoor Research Helium Jacket
- Weight 6.3 oz.
- Ultra-packable
- Tough Diamond Fuse textile tech
- No hand pockets
- Can wet out
Having now gone through a number of revisions over 12 years, it’s easy to say that not only does the Outdoor Research Helium Jacket ($170) have staying power, but it also continues to get better. This weight-conscious shell tips the scales at a scant 6.3 ounces, and still manages to not leave too many features on the cutting room floor.
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
- Waterproof material Dry.Q 2.5L
- Waterproof rating 10,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 10,000 g/m²
- Weight 10.5 oz.
- Whole body stretch
- Soft material feel
- Mesh-lined pockets
- Simple hood
- Stretch fabrics require more frequent DWR treatments
The Stretch Ozonic Jacket from Mountain Hardwear ($230) takes the phrase moves with you to heart, incorporating a four-way stretch across the entire jacket that not only makes pulling the move easier, but it also does so quietly and with a super soft hand.
Billed as a front-to-backcountry do-it-all shell, this jacket oozes movement and adds a nice amount of stretch to Mountain Hardwear’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
- Waterproof material Proprietary Vertice 3L
- Waterproof rating >20,000 mm/24 hours
- Breathability rating 56,000 g/m²
- Weight 7 oz.
- Impressively light weight
- High breathability
- Full waterproof front zipper
- Hood aperature is a bit small
- Fit and finish is a little rough
From the minds of thru-hiking gurus Zpacks, the Vertice Rain Jacket ($299) aims to be in the company of the “lightest possible choices,” and at 7 ounces it certainly lands among them.
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
- Waterproof material Proprietary AscentShell 3L
- Waterproof rating 15,000 mm/24 hours
- Weight 10.9 oz.
- Excellent stretch and breathability
- No sustainability certifications
- Waterproof membranes with stretch tend to wet-out faster
Way back in 2016 , Outdoor Research pioneered electrospun membranes on a large scale to produce stretchy, reliably breathable rain shells. Now more widely adopted, this manufacturing process effectively allows venting more easily than other options, which require the wearer to reach a high temp before hot air (from the body) can push through.
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
- Waterproof material Proprietary BD.dry 2.5L
- Weight 11.3 oz.
- Packability
- Not ideal over layers
A solid blend of packability, stretch, weight, and value, Black Diamond’s StormLine Stretch ($180) provides a solid option for traveling and daily getaways. And available at below $200, it’s a reasonable option from a trusted brand.
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.
Rain Jackets Comparison Chart
How We Tested Rain Jackets
Our team of testers has braved storms from the rain-drenched foothills of the Pacific Northwest to the mountains of Colorado for half a decade now to review and publish rain jacket guides for men and women. The GearJunkie crew isn’t afraid of a poor forecast, and our gathered rain jacket knowledge is pulled together here to guide your rain jacket choice. While we might be a bit wet behind the ears, it’s not for a lack of experience.
Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is no stranger to a little precip, and is the principal tester for this guide. 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. Belcaster has also thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, and has previously professionally equipped alpine climbers for whatever conditions they might encounter, including week-long deluges.
For this guide, we considered a broad range of uses for rain jackets, and included selections for both city and outdoor use. 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 long trails 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.
Our rain jacket testing occurs year-round, but mostly during the wettest months of the autumn in the Pacific Northwest. Belcaster, along with a crew of dedicated trail hounds, have been pulling on waterproofs and treading out into uncertain weather patterns for more than 5 years — collectively testing nearly 50 different rain jackets. Our testing aims to challenge these jackets, and looks at waterproofing over 24-hour periods, breathability during hill climbs, and durability against dense Cascadian bushwhacks.
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.
Rain Jacket Categories
Everyday Use
It’s true; when it rains, it does always seem to pour, and if you live somewhere where it does so frequently, you’ll need a rain jacket that’s ready to take on day-after-day deluge and cover you on your commute or expedition to the mailbox.
A rain jacket meant for everyday use will prioritize ease of use over much else, which often means a casual cut meant to toss over anything you’re already wearing. Because of this, they may weigh a little more than their backpacking cousins, but make up for it in durability. Thicker denier face fabrics are often employed to up the wear factor, which also prolongs the time it takes the jacket to wet out.
Functional features such as Velcro wrist closures, hand warming pockets, and hoods with some adjustability are all standard, though you won’t often see more sport-specific features such as helmet-compatible hoods, or two-way front zippers. One of our favorite do-it-all jackets is the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L , a shell that doesn’t demand much for the protection and everyday use it provides, but we also lean on the REI Co-op XeroDry GTX, Rab Downpour Plus 2.0, and Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic as everyday rain jackets.
Hiking and Backpacking
Rain jackets for hiking and backpacking take their jobs a bit more seriously, and need to contend with a rapidly filling backpack to ensure they make the cut. You’ll likely be hiking off into more remote locales for longer periods of time, and should look for a rain jacket with a waterproof membrane to match. Consider shells of 2.5- or 3-layer layups, which will stave off wetting out for longer, and often sport higher breathability numbers.
When hiking in a rain jacket, we like shells that combine mechanical and membrane breathability to continually move moisture out as we huff uphill. While their overall waterproofing numbers may be a bit lower, polyurethane membranes often move moisture at a better rate over their 2-2.5 layer GORE-TEX counterparts. Aim for a number north of 20,000 g/m² if you plan on hiking in your rain shell often. For day hikes, we often reach for the Outdoor Research Foray Superstretch , Patagonia Torrentshell 3L, and Outdoor Research Motive AscentShell.
Packability, too, is in high demand, and certainly so for backpacking rain jackets. Here you may encounter more ultralight rain jackets, which leverage high-performance membranes, light denier face fabrics, and minimal feature sets to disappear into your backpack. The Montbell Versalite always finds its way into our thru-hiking packs, with the Zpacks Vertice and Norrøna Falketind not far behind.
Performance
This is the realm of sport-specific rainwear, and where you’ll likely find jackets that are fine-tuned for heading further into terrain that’s whipped by rain on a constant basis. Rain jackets of this ilk are more similar in many aspects to hardshell jackets, which is rainwear with extra durability baked in for treading into mountainous terrain and activities.
You’ll pay for the performance, but the tradeoff comes in tougher shell materials, highly breathable waterproof membranes, and feature sets that make them more amenable to action while wearing, rather than hiding away inside. Hoods are often much more adjustable, with multiple corded zones to dial in your fit, and may also be oversized to fit over a climbing or ski helmet.
Exterior pockets typically are set higher on the torso, which allows access to them while wearing a backpack hip belt or climbing harness. The interior of these jackets, too, will have a bit more of a premium feel to them, with high-quality linings that are meant to protect the membranes for longer and promote water wicking.
The Arc’teryx Beta makes a strong case for its price tag here, and the 3-layer GORE-TEX it utilizes is top-of-the-line when it comes to rainwear, but don’t count out the North Face Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT or Patagonia Storm10, both jackets built with impressive tech.
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. It is important to note that waterproofness and breathability are two metrics pulling in opposite directions of one another, and that superior water resistance will require some concessions in the breathability department.
- 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
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.
Jackets intended for high-output activities will have a breathability rating of 20,000 g/m² or more, while lesser ratings between 10,000 and 15,000 will suffice for in-town use or when packability is the primary goal.
MVTR and RET Testing
The Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate, or MVTR, is the most commonly used test for measuring the breathability of waterproof membranes. This rate can be measured through a number of different tests, but the most common metric used is given in g/m²/24 hours. Higher values on the MVTR test give you a better idea of the jacket’s ability to pass moisture, but it isn’t the end-all say as other factors such as ambient humidity play a large role as well.
Budget-minded jackets like the Black Diamond StormLine Stretch sport an MVTR rating of 10,000 g/m², which isn’t quite at the standard of 20,000 g/m² rating we like to see in jackets meant to be used during high heart rate activities. At the other end of the spectrum, specialized shells like The North Face Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT boast impressive values of 75,000 g/m².
The RET, or Resistance to Evaporation rating has been gaining steam in recent years, with high-end GORE-TEX membranes being notable adopters. This rating uses a simulated perspiration test, and values here are the inverse of the MVTR, with lower values showing a higher ability for moisture transfer.
A jacket with a RET value of <6 will really pump out perspiration and is rated as extremely breathable on the RET scale. Fabrics with a RET score of between 6 and 12, like the Norrøna Falketind Paclite Rain Jacket , land in the highly breathable camp, and ratings of >12 are only moderately breathable.
Fabric Layers
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 mesh 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.
Without a full barrier protecting the interior of the jacket, the pores of the membrane can become clogged with time, and 2-layer jackets will need to be washed more often to keep them in fighting shape. The original formulation of GORE-TEX was a 2-layer layup, which boasted high breathability and waterproofing numbers but suffered in terms of durability as the membrane degraded with use. Today, all GORE membranes protect the interior of their membrane to prolong its life.
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, and eliminates the need for a mesh lining and the bulk and weight that comes with it. 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. Many may believe that their rain jacket has given up the ghost, when in fact it is the breathability that has been overwhelmed and caused a back-up of moisture coming from their own bodies.
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.
This third layer also adds a good bit of durability to the jacket as it protects the waterproof membrane from abrasion, but will add some bulk over 2.5-layer jackets. Because they are more complex, 3-layer membranes often land in the performance category of rain jackets and carry higher prices to boot.
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, with air-permeable membranes on the rise.
Best thought of as a piece of plastic stretched very thin , ePTFE are specialty materials (polytetrafluoroethylene, to be specific) that are expanded, creating micropores that act as a filter to inhibit water penetration, but allow water vapor to be expelled. 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 or tricot backer on the inside to stop contaminants such as body oils from clogging these pores. 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 that 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.
New to the market in recent years and somewhat of a blend of both previous technologies, 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 PACLITE and PACLITE PLUS
PACLITE is widely used in hiking and backpacking rain jackets, as it offers a high waterproofing rating, but strips out the textile backer of 3-layer membranes and applies a layer of polyurethane and carbon on the interior. This makes a hanging mesh lining unnecessary, and creates rainwear that is impressively packable. This layer is less thin than the bonded interior materials of 3-layer membranes, and as such is known as a 2.5-layer technology.
When even more packability is needed such as during backpacking, Gore’s PACLITE PLUS is a membrane that cuts down on bulk even further by spraying a layer of polyurethane that is much thinner than regular PACLITE to increase durability. Because of this, we regard PACLITE PLUS as a 2-layer membrane, and at >28,000 mm/24 hours of water resistance, this technology is plenty waterproof — but its breathability suffers some at 15,000 g/m².
GORE-TEX ePE
Currently a fledgling on the market, the new ePE membrane from GORE-TEX is bound to spread into most garments that currently use the 3-layer version. Urged on by manufacturers who wanted a PFC-free version of the legacy membrane, GORE-TEX was able to strip out the fluoro from their ePTFE membranes by supplanting polyethylene in its place. The material is still expanded like the original recipe and nails the 28,000 mm water resistance rating that 3L GORE-TEX is known for.
The trade-off is in breathability, which is on the lower end of the spectrum at a RET rating of <13. This will mean that jackets made with ePE will need to lean more on mechanical ventilation to keep moisture moving throughout the jacket.
GORE-TEX Pro
Used in higher-end hardshell jackets where maximum protection from wild conditions is needed, Gore’s three-layer Pro membrane is made of several ePTFE membranes bonded together, and uses a Micro-Grid backer that cuts down on overall bulk. A >28,000mm 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.
Because of the overall price associated with GORE-TEX Pro (hardshells begin at around $350, and rocket all the way to $900), it isn’t often that you see it utilized in rain jackets meant for everyday conditions.
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. Exterior face fabrics are between 13-30 denier, and the backer is a lightweight C-Knit material, which all aids in creating less of a barrier for moisture to move through during high-exertion activities. Few companies currently use the Active textile, with Norrøna and GORE WEAR currently creating trail running and cycling jackets utilizing it.
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.
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 Hardwear 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 or Patagonia Storm10 , 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.
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.
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.
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.
The Best Hardshell Jackets of 2024
Whether you’re getting good sticks in hero ice or traversing the snowfields of some foreign range, a good hardshell jacket will have your back. After months of testing in the harshest of conditions, these are the best hardshell jackets to brave the alpine with in 2024.
The Best Ski Jackets of 2024
Whether you’re skiing in sunny or stormy conditions, here are our top picks for the most durable, protective, and comfortable ski jackets of 2024.
Austin Beck-Doss is a Staff Writer at GearJunkie. Austin has been writing about climbing, hiking, and snowsports for 6+ years. Prior to that, Austin worked as a rock climbing and wilderness guide.
Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West. Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age, Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree. A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes.
Follow Us On
Subscribe Now
Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!
Join Our GearJunkie Newsletter
Gear Top Stories Deals
Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.
Best in Class
- The 10 Very Best Face Exfoliators The 10 Very Best Face Exfoliators
- The 11 Very Best Skillets The 11 Very Best Skillets
- The Very Best Toiletry Bottles The Very Best Toiletry Bottles
- The 18 Very Best Dining Chairs The 18 Very Best Dining Chairs
- 15 of the Very Best Chef’s Knives 15 of the Very Best Chef’s Knives
- The 11 Very Best Self-Tanners The 11 Very Best Self-Tanners
- 14 of the Very Best Olive Oils 14 of the Very Best Olive Oils
- The 14 Very Best Beach Towels The 14 Very Best Beach Towels
- The 14 Very Best High-Waisted Jeans The 14 Very Best High-Waisted Jeans
- The 12 Best Pieces of Bakeware The 12 Best Pieces of Bakeware
- The 9 Very Best Nail Clippers The 9 Very Best Nail Clippers
- The 10 Very Best Menstrual Cups The 10 Very Best Menstrual Cups
- The Very Best Men’s Underwear The Very Best Men’s Underwear
- The 12 Very Best Pillows for Neck Pain The 12 Very Best Pillows for Neck Pain
- The Best Women’s Long Underwear for Women The Best Women’s Long Underwear for Wome…
- The 15 Very Best Eye Creams The 15 Very Best Eye Creams
- The Very Best Boxer Briefs The Very Best Boxer Briefs
- The 11 Very Best Jeans for Tall Women The 11 Very Best Jeans for Tall Women
- The 7 Very Best Dutch Ovens The 7 Very Best Dutch Ovens
- The 10 Very Best Mattress Protectors The 10 Very Best Mattress Protectors
- 13 of the Very Best Air Fryers 13 of the Very Best Air Fryers
- The 8 Very Best Hair Towels The 8 Very Best Hair Towels
- The 13 Very Best Mattress Toppers The 13 Very Best Mattress Toppers
- 20 of the Very Best Men’s Socks 20 of the Very Best Men’s Socks
- The 12 Very Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin The 12 Very Best Moisturizers for Dry Sk…
- The 13 Very Best Air-Suction Sex Toys The 13 Very Best Air-Suction Sex Toys
- The 13 Very Best Cashmere Sweaters The 13 Very Best Cashmere Sweaters
- The 12 Very Best Travel Mugs The 12 Very Best Travel Mugs
- The 29 Very Best Mascaras The 29 Very Best Mascaras
- The 14 Best Women’s Raincoats The 14 Best Women’s Raincoats
- The 20 Very Best Sunscreens for Your Face The 20 Very Best Sunscreens for Your Fac…
- The Very Best Retinol Products for Every Skin Type The Very Best Retinol Products for Every…
- The 11 Very Best Vitamin-C Serums The 11 Very Best Vitamin-C Serums
- The 12 Best Cruiser Bikes The 12 Best Cruiser Bikes
- The 9 Very Best Drugstore Eye Creams The 9 Very Best Drugstore Eye Creams
- The 17 Very Best Floor Lamps The 17 Very Best Floor Lamps
- The 6 Very Best Wine Coolers and Fridges The 6 Very Best Wine Coolers and Fridges
- The 10 Very Best White T-shirts for Women The 10 Very Best White T-shirts for Wome…
- The 17 Very Best Drawer Organizers The 17 Very Best Drawer Organizers
- The Very Best Women’s Underwear The Very Best Women’s Underwear
- The 8 Very Best Milk Frothers The 8 Very Best Milk Frothers
- The 20 Best Camping Chairs The 20 Best Camping Chairs
- The Very Best Men’s Sweatpants The Very Best Men’s Sweatpants
- The 12 Very Best Lip Balms The 12 Very Best Lip Balms
- The 11 Very Best Fanny Packs The 11 Very Best Fanny Packs
- The 7 Very Best Robot Vacuum Cleaners The 7 Very Best Robot Vacuum Cleaners
- The Very Best Coffee-Subscription Clubs The Very Best Coffee-Subscription Clubs
- The 9 Very Best Black Work Pants for Women The 9 Very Best Black Work Pants for Wom…
- The Very Best Workout Shoes for Women The Very Best Workout Shoes for Women
- The 17 Very Best Doorknobs The 17 Very Best Doorknobs
The 14 Best Women’s Raincoats
For drizzle or downpours..
In this article
- Best overall
- Best A-line
- Best packable
- Best soft-shell
- Best hard-shell
Best poncho
- Best luxury
Alongside a windproof umbrella and your favorite pair of rain boots , a great raincoat will help you brave the elements and look good doing it. It’s an essential item to own, whether you’re encountering the occasional drizzly day or jumping over puddles for half of the year. To find the best raincoats for women, I spoke with outerwear experts and stylish folks about their favorite women’s raincoats, then tried out their recommendations myself. Below, find nostalgic vintage-inspired anoraks, hardshell hiking jackets, and everything in between. While you’re here, I’ve also written guides to the best women’s parkas and rain boots .
What we’re looking for
Water resistance.
In order to be 100 percent waterproof, a raincoat must be constructed from an impenetrable material like vinyl, plastic, or rubber. This style of raincoat is perfectly appropriate for city commutes, but not so much hiking or other athletic activities. For those, I looked for lightweight and packable jackets treated with a durable water-resistant (DWR) coating as well as a few more environmentally sustainable alternatives that don’t make use of DWR “forever” chemicals. A water-resistant jacket should keep you dry in all but the most extreme cases, and it will pack down and breathe much better than a traditional rubber coat. For extra protection against the elements, I favored raincoats featuring reinforced seams, elasticized or velcro wrist cuffs, and covered zippers.
Because your raincoat should keep you comfortable as well as dry, I looked for options with lots of (preferably zippered) pockets, underarm ventilation, and adjustable hoods. Eric Goodwin, outerwear designer and founder of Lathley , advised us to avoid insulated rain jackets for more versatility. “You can always add warm layers underneath your rain jacket,” he points out, “but if it’s a warm rainy day, you can’t take away the insulation built into the jacket.”
Weight and length
I sought out a range of coats, jackets, anoraks and ponchos in varying lengths and weights, from classy trench coats to hard shells with stormproof hoods. The raincoat you choose will depend on its intended use: A mid-length, mid-weight jacket is ideal for dashing between subway stations, but when hiking, you probably just want something lightweight and breathable.
Best women’s raincoat overall
Water resistance: Waterproof shell, welded seams | Comfort: Two pockets, underarm ventilation, drawstring hood | Weight and length: Mid-length, heavy-weight
The Stutterheim Stockholm is a worthy investment piece for anyone regularly commuting in a rainy climate. It’s constructed from cotton that has been coated in a thick layer of synthetic rubber; when buttoned up, it’ll keep your clothes completely dry. When I first tried mine on, I was surprised by how substantial the Stockholm felt — quite the opposite of a packable shell jacket and considerably thicker than the popular Rains dupe recommended below. The rubberiness recalls a vintage fisherman’s slicker, and there’s also an undeniable Paddington Bear comparison to be made. Incredibly waterproof, a Stutterheim coat becomes part of your outfit without distracting from it. “The Scandinavian design will make you feel stylish, even in an unglamorous downpour,” confirms travel blogger and photographer Renee Hahnel . The rubber coating means that the jacket never clings or feels staticky, and it is easy to wipe down. Writer and performer Jess Latowicki says that even the dangerously bone-white colorway will retain its sheen after multiple seasons. Go a couple sizes down for a closer fit — the relative stiffness of this jacket doesn’t make for a flattering baggy look.
Best A-line women’s raincoat
The Strategist team loves Stutterheim’s Mosebacke raincoat, which is similarly waterproof and durable to our best overall pick, but with a less streamlined silhouette. Fittingly, Strategist writer Dominique Pariso purchased hers on a trip to Sweden , where the brand is based. A store attendant charmingly described it as flattering for “women of shape.” Pariso would tend to agree: “The slight A-line flare leaves some much-appreciated wiggle room around my hips and lets me comfortably button the coat all the way down.” I think the long version of this jacket looks particularly swish on the streets; sometimes I actually wish it would rain so as to have an excuse to wear it.
Best packable women’s raincoat
Water resistance: Waterproof shell, welded seams | Comfort: Two pockets, underarm ventilation, drawstring hood | Weight and length: Mid-length, mid-weight
I also tested out Stutterheim’s more packable Stockholm jacket, which is coated in a much thinner layer of rubber than the original. This makes it more scrunchable for storage and swishier in fit, draping against the body rather than hanging stiffly against it. It doesn’t feel nearly as substantial and protective, but the materials are definitely highly waterproof, and that classic Paddington Bear aesthetic is the same. Though I still prefer the rubberiness of Stutterheim’s original Stockholm, this lightweight version would be an ideal alternative for those who travel frequently or dislike wearing a stiff jacket.
Best less-expensive women’s raincoat
Water resistance: Waterproof shell, welded seams | Comfort: Two pockets, underarm ventilation, drawstring hood | Weight and length: Short length, light-weight
Danish brand Rains has become ubiquitous on water-slicked city streets in recent years, and for good reason. It makes some of the most aesthetically pleasing raincoats around, and they’re much more affordable than the Stutterheims above, despite being similarly waterproof. Having worn both, I’ve found that Rains jackets are far thinner and swishier in fit — even more so than the lightweight version of Stutterheim’s Stockholm. Some more subtle design differences include a shorter length, hidden snap buttons, and colored drawstrings. China-manufactured Rains jackets are completely synthetic, whereas European-manufactured Stutterheims are constructed from waterproof cotton.
Best less-expensive A-line women’s raincoat
Pleating on the back adds slight flare to Rains’ take on an A-line raincoat, which otherwise repeats the same waterproofing features as its original jacket above. I find the straw-yellow colorway particularly appealing — it stands out on a gray day without being too garish.
Best women’s soft-shell jacket
Water resistance: DWR shell, zippers, and seams; elastic cuffs | Comfort: One pocket, adjustable hood | Weight and length: Short length, lightweight, packable
A soft-shell jacket offers rain protection while remaining fairly lightweight, making it ideal for hiking and other athletic outdoor activities. This very stashable one from Outdoor Research has elastic cuffs, water-resistant zippers, and an adjustable hood. Hahnel always travels with hers, saying that it “packs down to the size of a tennis ball, and keeps you dry for hours.”
Best less-expensive women’s soft-shell jacket
Water resistance: DWR shell, taped seams, velcro cuffs | Comfort: Two pockets, underarm ventilation, adjustable hood | Weight and length: Short length, lightweight, packable
At a lower price point is the Marmot PreCip, a classic of the raincoat genre for more than 20 years and a favorite amongst Strategist staffers. Pacific Northwest–based outdoor expert Holly Johnson , no stranger to rainy climes, says this “lightweight, packable, and affordable rain jacket” is perfect for “hiking, backpacking, travel, and everyday use.” She notes that it runs a little small and recommends sizing up.
Best sustainable women’s raincoat
Water resistance: Nontoxic water-resistant shell, taped seams | Comfort: Zipper pockets, adjustable hood, adjustable waist | Weight and length: Body length, mid-weight
All of the DWR-treated coats on this list use toxic perfluorochemicals, which can adversely affect human and environmental health. PFCs are commonly used in the outerwear industry, but California’s recent move to ban PFC-treated products by 2025 has forced many brands to reconsider their designs. The first generation of PFC-free jackets is hitting the market this season, with more undoubtedly on the way, and I’m keeping an eye on what’s next. For now, Goodwin particularly likes this relatively affordable option from Tentree, which is made from recycled polyester with a nontoxic water-resistant coating that comes close to rivaling traditional DWR. It’s an optimal length for keeping both your core and legs dry and includes thoughtful features like a cell-phone pocket and flattering drawcord waist.
Best (vintage-style) sustainable women’s raincoat
Water resistance: Waterproof recycled plastic shell | Comfort: Drawstring, two side pockets | Weight and length: Mid-length, mid-weight
Based out of Nova Scotia, Fairechild designs matching raincoats and rain pants for both kids and adults, utilizing a unique waterproof fabric made from recycled plastic bottles. Yet the style of these raincoats is so nostalgic that you’d never expect their very modern environmental credentials. I heard about the brand’s boxy chore-style raincoat from Midcoast Maine-based photographer Bea Helman , who says its recycled fabric is “incredibly lightweight while being so waterproof — and it looks very classic.” She notes that it’s rare to find a vintage-style raincoat “that’s also outdoorsy,” but that this one looks cute and holds its own against the coastal elements. “My husband is an oyster farmer and everything gets covered in mud and salt. So for him, if he can’t have it last for years and years, there’s just no point. It’s useless to us.”
Best women’s waxed jacket
Water resistance: Water-resistant waxed-cotton shell | Comfort: Cotton lining, handwarmer pockets, optional hood | Weight and length: Short length, mid-weight
With heritage designs favored by Succession characters and British royals, Barbour’s waxed-cotton jackets happen to be forever-chemical free. While these classic olive-green coats aren’t completely waterproof, Goodwin notes, “They can definitely stand up to light rain,” and they’ll last forever, developing an attractive patina over time. Plus, “you can rewax them yourself if they start to lose their water resistance.” Unfortunately, you will have to separately purchase the brand’s hood for optimum rain protection — but former Strategist editor Anthony Rotunno attests that the extra $50 is well worth it.
Best women’s hard-shell jacket
Water resistance: DWR triple shell, reinforced zippers, velcro cuffs | Comfort: Two pockets, underarm ventilation, adjustable hood | Weight and length: Short length, mid-weight, packable
Hard-shell jackets are usually constructed from three layers of waterproofing fabric, where soft shells feature just one or two. They’re great if you know you’ll be out hiking in near-constant wind and rain. I’ve been wearing this Arc’teryx one for a couple of seasons and have found it to be exceptionally waterproof yet never stifling or sweaty; the fabric is crisp and light despite all that waterproofing tech. The fit is rather slim, so size up if you know you’ll be wearing several layers.
Best (less-expensive) women’s hard-shell jacket
Water resistance: DWR double shell, reinforced zippers, velcro cuffs | Comfort: Two pockets, hem ventilation, adjustable hood | Weight and length: Short length, midweight, packable
Here’s a considerably cheaper hard shell that’s highly packable. Outdoor Research’s Aspire raincoat, constructed from Gore-Tex, is ideal for those who “want to stay extra warm while they keep dry,” according to Jen Martin, who organizes adventure cruises to such far-flung locations as Antarctica and the Galápagos as the director of expedition development at Lindblad Expeditions . It features a two-layer construction as opposed to the Arc’teryx’s three, but still offers plenty of wind and rain protection.
Water resistance: Waterproof shell, welded seams | Comfort: Drawstring hood, button collar | Weight and length: Body-length, light-weight
Being free of zippers or other points of entry where water might penetrate, ponchos are ideal for throwing over your outfit in the event of a torrential downpour. This Rains one, which is cut in an A-line shape to increase mobility, is a favorite of stylists Neelo Noory , Courtney Madison , Leah Adicoff , and style writer Jessica Schiffer . Sure, it’s a little fancier than your standard disposable poncho — but “not everyone wants to look like they just got off the Maid of the Mist ,” Madison points out.
Best (less-expensive) poncho
Water resistance: Waterproof shell, reinforced seams | Comfort: Heat-reflecting | Weight and length: Mid-length, lightweight
If you’re happy to lean into the Maid of the Mist look, though, this affordable and reusable poncho is a “lifesaver” according to Matt Young, the head of marketing and e-commerce at Brooklyn-based outdoors store Hatchet Outdoor Supply Co. Weighing just 2.7 ounces, the waterproof, wind-resistant, and heat-reflective poncho can be packed up compactly enough to fit in your pocket, he says. “It’s ideal for unexpected downpours, rainy hikes, outdoor events — and serves as a warm and dry shelter in emergencies.” Plus, unlike plastic or polyester, the material is tear-resistant and quiet, so the poncho won’t rip or rustle while you walk.
Some more women’s rain gear we’ve written about
Our experts
• Leah Adicoff, stylist • Eric Goodwin, outerwear designer and founder of Lathley • Renee Hahnel, travel blogger and photographer • Bea Helman, photographer • Holly Johnson, Pacific Northwest–based outdoor expert • Jess Latowicki, writer and performer • Courtney Madison, stylist • Caroline Maguire, fashion director, Shopbop • Jen Martin, director of product development, expeditions at Seabourn Cruise Line • Neelo Noory, stylist • Dominique Pariso , writer, the Strategist • Leilani Pelayo, co-founder and chief strategy officer, natureofthings • Jessica Schiffer, style writer • Matt Young, head of marketing and e-commerce, Hatchet Outdoor Supply Co.
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
Every editorial product is independently selected. If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.
- the strategist
- coats and jackets
- best in class
Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.
Deal of the Day
Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.
- What Hannah Brown Can’t Live Without
- 14 of the Very Best Olive Oils
- The 14 Very Best Protein Powders
- I Spent 6 Months Testing Compression Boots and My Legs Feel Fantastic
- I Misread the Forecast and Wore One Shirt for 13 Days
- The 15 Very Best Eye Creams
- The 11 Very Best Vitamin-C Serums
Popular Products From Athleta
Protect Your Trip »
The 6 best packable jackets for travel in 2024.
These packable jackets promise protection from the elements without sacrificing space in your suitcase.
The Best Packable Jackets
Getty Images
When preparing for a trip, you always have to account for whatever kind of weather might come your way – which, in most cases, means packing a jacket just in case. Of course, space in your luggage is precious, and the bulk of a jacket may be more than what you want to pack. That's why many travelers seek out packable jackets that fold down compactly.
Choosing a packable jacket doesn't mean you have to sacrifice warmth, though – there are plenty of options that will keep you warm without the bulk. Read on to find the best packable jackets based on recommendations from travel experts as well as consumer ratings and reviews across a variety of retail sites.
Best Overall: Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket
- Jump to features and traveler insights ↓
Best Lightweight: Arc'teryx Atom LT Jacket
Best down: cotopaxi fuego hooded down jacket, best rain jacket: marmot precip eco jacket.
- Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Puffer Jacket
Best Style: Lululemon Pack-It Down Jacket
(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)
Courtesy of Patagonia
There's no contest when it comes to the best packable jacket: The Patagonia Nano Puff is the tried-and-true choice for travel experts. "The warmth-to-weight ratio on this jacket is unmatched. It keeps me warm in cool temperatures or on a cold plane without making me overheat," says Lauren Maternowski, who has tried dozens of packable jackets in her role as managing editor at Pack Hacker. "And, if I add a few warm layers underneath, it adds enough warmth to feel comfortable in winter climates."
The jacket barely takes up any luggage space, either. "It compresses down to the size of a sandwich bag in its own interior pocket," says Melissa McGibbon, destinations editor at Powder. "I also appreciate that it's sustainably produced and lasts for years."
The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket is available in a variety of men's and women's sizes as well as with a hood (the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody , McGibbon's personal favorite).
Price: $239 or less
Courtesy of Arc'teryx
Many travel writers recommend Arc'teryx for its packable jackets like the Cerium and – if you're looking for something particularly lightweight – the Atom LT. Though light, this packable jacket retains heat thanks to its synthetic insulation. It also protects from the elements with a water-resistant shell, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
In addition to the design, the overall fit of this jacket earns high praise. "One of my favorite things about the Atom LT is its fit and comfort," says travel blogger Ethan Williams of Traveling Gossip. "It's not too tight, allowing room for layering, but still has a flattering, streamlined design." He notes that the side panels are made of a breathable, stretchy material, which increases mobility.
If you're looking for a jacket with a hood, there's also the Atom LT Hoody . While both men's and women's sizes are available, note that the women's jacket is now called the Atom (without the LT). Some stores may still advertise it as the Atom LT, however.
Price: $280 or less
Courtesy of Cotopaxi
The Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket features responsibly sourced 800-fill down, so you can feel warm and cozy (literally and figuratively) when wearing it. Its outer shell, which has two zippered pockets, is water-resistant, and an interior zippered pocket provides protection for your smartphone or other small essentials.
"My favorite feature is the scuba hood, which – along with the jacket zipping up to my nose – keeps me extra warm on cold and windy days," says Leilani Osmundson , digital producer for travel at U.S. News. "I wear this jacket everywhere, from skiing and walking my dog in the winter to camping and backpacking in the summer. My other down jackets have stayed tucked away in my closet ever since I received this one!"
The Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket is available in a variety of the brand's signature color combos, which make it also stylish. "I seriously get compliments all the time," Osmundson says.
Price: $295 or less
Tips on Trips and Expert Picks
Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.
A packable rain jacket is essential for any vacation, and the Marmot PreCip remains a classic choice 20 years after it first debuted. This well-priced option is 100% seam-taped with eco-friendly materials to ensure you'll stay completely dry, whether you're chasing the Niagara Falls on a boat tour or exploring Thailand during the wet season. It's also so compact that its hood can be rolled into the collar, and the jacket itself is designed to fold down into its own pocket.
Travelers appreciate how breathable this jacket is, noting that it doesn't make them sweat in warm temps. In cold weather, many say it's all you need and that if you get chilly, it's versatile enough to be layered with other clothing.
Price: $100 or less
Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Packable Jacket
Amazon makes some surprisingly sturdy travel gear, including packable jackets. In fact, more than 44,000 reviewers in total across men's and women's options have given the Amazon Essentials Packable Jacket 4.5 stars, pointing to its value for the price. The water-resistant puffer jacket is lightweight yet provides just the right amount of coziness on cool days (and works well over a hoodie for added warmth). Travelers say the jacket has worked well for a variety of trips, including cruises to Alaska and backpacking through Europe.
The jacket is available in a variety of colors and sizes including children's and plus sizes , though many reviewers note the sizes are inaccurate (so you may want to purchase a few or use Amazon's Prime Try Before You Buy to find the right fit). The jacket comes with a packable carry bag and is machine-washable.
Price: $39.90 or less
Fashion meets function in the Pack-It-Down Jacket by Lululemon, which features a slim fit that also covers the buttocks. "One thing I very much appreciate about the Pack-It-Down puffer jacket is that it cinches at the waist, so it doesn't make me look like an amorphous blob like most puffer-down jackets do," says travel blogger Katie Caf. You'd never know the jacket has 700-fill-power goose down by looking at it.
Caf also notes that her coat still looks new even after three New York City winters and two years of full-time travel, including trips to warm weather destinations. "When I'm traveling in tropical climates, it's a no-brainer to still bring my Pack-It-Down jacket because it takes up almost no room in my bag and weighs next to nothing." The water-resistant jacket has a removable stuff pocket for packing it into luggage, as well as a removable hood and hand pockets with a hidden phone sleeve.
Note that the Pack-It Down Jacket is often sold out due to its popularity, but you can sign up to to get an email when it's back in stock.
Price: $198 or less
You might also be interested in:
The best walking shoes for travel.
- The Best Travel Pants for Women
- The Best Adventure Vacations
Tags: Travel , Travel Gear
World's Best Places To Visit
- # 1 South Island, New Zealand
- # 4 Bora Bora
If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.
You May Also Like
The best spas in las vegas.
Reannon Muth March 5, 2024
The Best Sedona Jeep Tours
Holly Johnson and Marisa Méndez March 5, 2024
Catriona Kendall March 4, 2024
The 13 Best Las Vegas Tours
John Rodwan March 4, 2024
The Best Kids Luggage
Amanda Norcross March 1, 2024
Best Hoover Dam Tours from Las Vegas
Holly Johnson and Ann Henson March 1, 2024
Top Things to Do in Colorado
Leilani Osmundson Feb. 29, 2024
The 5 Best NYC Bus Tours for 2024
Holly Johnson and Marisa Méndez Feb. 29, 2024
Top Bachelor Party Destinations
Timothy J. Forster Feb. 29, 2024
The 8 Best Hollywood Tours
Gwen Pratesi and Ann Henson Feb. 28, 2024
Best Men’s and Women’s Rain Jackets and Raincoats
As Longfellow might have said: Into each life spent commuting, running errands, or watching a kid’s soccer game, some rain must fall. We spent two and a half months researching 134 raincoats and testing 30—with a panel of six testers in a range of shapes and sizes—to find six of the best rain jackets in a wide variety of sizes, styles, colors, and lengths to keep you dry and comfortable.
How we picked
Our top priority was finding high-quality raincoats in lots of sizes. For some styles, only limited sizes were available.
All of the jackets we tried were water resistant in our testing. They’ll keep you dry in most everyday conditions.
We picked coats with reviews going back at least a year to avoid changing seasonal styles, and we’ve tracked pandemic shortages.
We looked for coats that work for most seasons, allow room for layering underneath, and don’t overheat on a summer commute.
Our picks include an all-purpose women’s raincoat, a warm, insulated women’s coat , a mid-thigh men’s coat , women’s and men’s jackets made for hiking and other outdoor activities , and inexpensive, sporty women’s and men’s raincoats . All of the jackets we picked did an excellent job of keeping us dry—so which one works best for you will likely come down to style, fit, and price. Most of our picks are available in extended sizes. Companies categorize coats by gender, but anyone can wear them (and we have some unisex options in the Competition section ).
The research
A classic women’s raincoat: l.l.bean h2off mesh-lined rain jacket, a men’s commuter raincoat: helly hansen moss rain coat, an affordable women’s raincoat: columbia women’s arcadia ii rain jacket, a utilitarian men’s rain jacket: columbia men’s watertight ii jacket, an outdoorsy men’s and women’s raincoat: patagonia torrentshell 3l, an insulated women’s raincoat: eddie bauer girl on the go insulated trench coat, why you should trust us, who these are for, how we picked and tested, care and maintenance, the competition, frequently asked questions.
L.L.Bean H2Off Mesh-Lined Rain Jacket
A well-made staple.
Available in two lengths and many sizes, this durable, timeless coat will work for most seasons—and there’s a PrimaLoft-lined version for colder months.
Buying Options
Who this is for: Anyone looking for an all-purpose raincoat that won’t go out of style.
Why it’s great: The simple aesthetic of the L.L.Bean H2Off Mesh-Lined Rain Jacket works equally well for commuting to the city or standing on a soccer field, and it’s comfortable to wear from spring through fall. It has the most style and size variations of any of the coats we tested—it’s available in 13 sizes and two lengths, and comes in an insulated version for winter. It also has the most thoughtful details of any women’s raincoat we looked at. One of our testers noted, “I have very little to say about this coat, which is a good thing! It just does its job.”
The H2Off’s subtle, logo-free style and simple details make it less sporty looking than the Columbia Arcadia (which we also recommend), and the five classic color choices will suit both work and weekend wardrobes.
The H2Off’s size range was one of the best we found. The hip-length version includes petite and plus sizes, and the mid-thigh option comes in petite sizes. L.L.Bean also makes a PrimaLoft-lined version for winter, in hip and mid-thigh lengths. (We didn’t test the lined option, but it has the same design as the regular version.) We recommend sizing up if you have curves, fall between two sizes, or want to add thick layers underneath.
In the rain, water rolled right off the H2Off jacket. This was typical for most of the coats we tested, but it seemed to roll faster from the H2Off than from the Eddie Bauer On The Go Insulated Trench Coat . The H2Off’s fabric was thicker than that of the Columbia Arcadia II Rain Jacket , and it felt smoother than the fabric of any of our other women’s picks. The fully taped seams help to block water, and the top half of the lining is mesh, which makes the coat breathable. The hood is adjustable with a Velcro strap (though testers didn’t need to use this feature), and it’s deep enough for most hairstyles, except high buns, and hair thicknesses.
Testers said the H2Off’s two-way zipper was among their favorites. The design allows you to unzip the bottom of the coat for ventilation, and this makes it easier to sit down in the longer version of the coat. Testers also loved that the colors of the zippers matched the coats’ colors. You can tighten the cuffs on the sleeves with snaps; these cuffs were better than the Eddie Bauer Girl On The Go’s nonadjustable cuffs at keeping water out and customizing fit, but not as good as the the Columbia Women’s Arcadia coat’s Velcro cuffs, which allowed the most fine-tuning.
The L.L.Bean H2Off Mesh-Lined Rain Jacket is my go-to raincoat, and I absolutely love it; it’s proven to be a solid around-town jacket. The hood is substantial, with room for my thick curls (even when my hair is up in a high bun). And the pockets have lots of space—I’ve stuffed flashlights, water bottles, eggs from my chicken coop, and gardening tools in them. This coat has definitely been watertight through some really heavy rainfall where I live, in Washington state. It’s also warm, even the version I have, without the PrimaLoft lining. (Honestly, it’s sometimes too warm, when I’m working out in the yard. I’ve overheated in it a couple of times.)
I’ve been using the H2Off as my regular raincoat for several years, and it still looks fresh after multiple washes. I haven’t worn it for any intense outdoor sporty activities to see how it holds up. But I have worn it for a lot of country-life stuff: gardening, cleaning up after my chickens, hauling around feed and supplies, and around the stables, where my kiddo takes riding lessons, too.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: We were disappointed to learn that the mid-thigh version of the H2Off didn’t come in plus sizes. In an email, an L.L.Bean spokesperson told us that the company had discontinued plus sizes in the mid-thigh version because relatively few people bought it in that length, but they added that L.L.Bean was considering bringing it back in upcoming seasons. (As of summer 2023, L.L.Bean had not brought it back, although you can buy mid-thigh plus sizes in the jacket’s PrimaLoft version.)
Our testers also noted some size differences between the hip and mid-thigh versions. They all found the mid-thigh version to be a little roomier, but we still think sizing up is the way to go. The pockets didn’t have closures to keep them dry, which wasn’t a problem in our rain tests, but it did make testers nervous about losing things. The pockets were also smaller than the ones on our other picks, but all of the H2Off coats had an inside chest pocket that zipped to protect valuables.
Sizes: hip length: XS–XL, petite XS–XL, plus 1X–3X; mid-thigh length: XS–XL, petite XS–XL
Colors: hip length: lilac, black, navy, deep olive, barley; mid-thigh length : black, navy, deep olive
Other options: PrimaLoft-lined hip and mid-thigh lengths
Materials: polyester
Returns/warranty: one-year returns, with a warranty against defects after that
Helly Hansen Moss Rain Coat
The best style and value.
This well-constructed, mid-thigh-length coat combines waterproofing, style, and price.
Who this is for: Commuters who want to keep their rear ends dry when sitting at the bus stop and those who want style without a luxury price tag.
Why it’s great: The Helly Hansen Moss Rain Coat is the best coat we found that combined a longer, mid-thigh length with style and price (there’s also a shorter option available). Although the Helly Hansen coat wasn’t as size-inclusive as our other picks, it did have more sizes and was more breathable than other similar trendy coats.
If you need something to help keep your bum and thighs dry but don’t like your raincoat to fall too low, the Moss could be just right (it’s about 2 inches longer than the hip-length Columbia Watertight II ). Our shortest tester for the men’s coats was 5-foot-9 and our tallest was nearly 6-foot-4, and both of them liked how the length hit them. The Moss doesn’t offer as many sizes as the Columbia Watertight II, but it does have more options compared with similarly styled mid-thigh coats we considered, such as the Stutterheim Stockholm . We thought the cut was consistently generous in all of the sizes we tested, and the design was flattering on more body shapes.
All of our testers noted that the Moss felt comfortable and roomy enough for layers, but a tester who received a size XXL in the Moss found the coat’s proportions to be oddly off: “It's like they just upscaled the hood by the same ratio as they adjusted the chest and sleeve measurements, which is ... not how human head/body ratios work,” he said.
Helly Hansen also makes a hip-length Moss Rain Jacket (which we didn’t test) if you like the Moss Rain Coat’s style but want something shorter.
Helly Hansen’s offerings may not evoke luxury like coats from brands such as Stutterheim, but if you want something more urban for commuting, the Moss Rain Coat looks less outdoorsy than a basic nylon jacket. We found the zippers to be well made. The hood was deep enough for most testers, and it repelled water just as well as other coats we tried.
This is our only pick that’s made with polyurethane, which testers noted gave it a “rubberized” feel that they liked. Although the fabric isn’t bulky, it’s less breathable than the cotton, polyester, and nylon coats we recommend. There is a ventilation flap in the back, but testers didn’t notice a difference in breathability with the flap open or closed. We called Helly Hansen’s customer service department, and the representative confirmed that this coat is probably best for cooler temperatures.
My husband has been wearing the Helly Hansen coat for several years now, and it’s the coat he immediately grabs when faced with Washington state’s heaviest rains. Since it’s thicker and longer than the other rain jackets we recommend, it gives him better protection against the rain when it’s coming down hard. I’ve inspected the coat, and I don’t see any major signs of wear or tear. The stitching looks fine, and my husband tells me that it’s still perfectly waterproof to protect him outside when he needs it the most.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: This is the only coat we recommend that can’t go in the dryer (putting it in the dryer voids the warranty), according to the label instructions. But it held up fine when I decided to tumble-dry it during testing. I also air-dried it and found that dragging a dripping-wet raincoat out of the washing machine was a hassle.
Our testers didn’t like the placement or design of the Moss’s pockets. They weren’t fans of the almost vertical openings (although one did note that this factor would probably keep the contents dry), and they found the openings too tight to fit hands into.
Sizes: S–XXL
Colors: navy, yellow, camouflage
Other options: hip-length
Materials: polyurethane
Returns/warranty: 90-day returns, one-year warranty against defects
Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Rain Jacket
Sporty and practical.
Our least expensive women’s raincoat pick was just as good in the rain as pricier coats we tried. But its no-frills construction misses out on features we like, such as taped seams and placketed zippers.
Who this is for: People looking for an inexpensive women’s jacket that will do the job in warmer weather.
Why it’s great: The no-frills Columbia Women’s Arcadia Casual Jacket , a pick in the original version of this guide, was one of the best values we found. Compared with other sporty coats we tried, it came in more sizes, was more flattering on our testers, cost less, and performed just as well in the rain. In 2022, Columbia updated the Arcadia Casual to create the Arcadia II Rain Jacket . We haven’t tested that specific style, but we feel confident in recommending the Arcadia II since it has all of the same features as the original Arcadia, with just a couple of minor adjustments. The Columbia logo is on the chest instead of the arm, and the jacket is now packable: It can fold into one of its zip-up hand pockets for easy storage. We think the packable feature is a nice improvement, and depending on your own style preferences, the logo switch may count as one, too.
When we tested the original Arcadia Casual, our testers said they felt cute in this jacket, and they preferred the style to similar sporty models. They said its slim cut didn’t make them look like potato sacks, and they liked the high-low bottom hem. Compared with activewear coats we tried from both REI and L.L.Bean, the Arcadia came in more sizes. If you fall between sizes, we recommend sizing up.
The Arcadia comes in 55 colors, more than any other women’s style on our list, and each tester was happy with the color they tried. With options like “peach cloud” (a delicate orangey-pink) and “spring blue/cirrus gray” (an icy blue), you can show off your personality in this jacket. Testers liked the fabric, and although they found it to be thinner and less smooth than the L.L.Bean H2Off’s, they said it still felt cool and comfortable. The Arcadia’s mesh lining keeps it breathable in warmer weather, too.
The Arcadia is one of the most affordable jackets we considered. We have noticed some price fluctuations, but you can typically get one for under $100. This coat’s midweight fabric made it feel substantial, but it wasn’t as heavy-duty or warm as the Eddie Bauer Girl On The Go coat . Our testers had room to layer underneath the Arcadia, which would help it transition through the seasons. They also said that the hood provided some of the best full-face coverage for a variety of hairstyles, from top knots to thick curls.
The Arcadia is the only women’s coat we recommend with Velcro wrist cuffs, which we prefer to snaps (even though snaps might last longer) because Velcro gives you more control over the fit. And the zippered pockets are roomy enough to hold your keys, phone, wallet, or even a bottle of water or a small umbrella (if you don’t zip the pockets closed). The Arcadia survived our wear tests with no problems, repelling water just as quickly and effectively as our other picks, even after three washes.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Arcadia lacks some of the nice extras we found on expensive raincoats. The zipper feels a little cheap compared with zippers on other coats we tried. Also, the zipper doesn’t have a placket over it to stop water from seeping in, and not all of the seams are taped. Although we didn’t experience any leakage in our tests, this coat is probably better suited to a lightly rainy day than to a torrential downpour, and it lacks the warmth for cooler months.
Sizes: XS–XXL, plus 1X–3X
Colors: 55 colors, including green, black, navy, white, light blue, and pink
Materials: nylon shell, polyester lining
Returns/warranty: 60-day returns, limited lifetime warranty for defects
Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket
Sporty and affordable.
This well-priced hip-length jacket repels water as effectively as coats that cost three times as much, and it comes in a wide range of sizes and colors.
Who this is for: People who prioritize sizing and affordability and who don’t mind a sporty look.
Why it’s great: All of the hip-length men’s rain jackets we tried were sufficiently waterproof and had streamlined, simple designs—one tester called this category “well-made, normal raincoats.” The Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket stands out because it has a better size and color range than other jackets we considered. It’s also the best value of any jacket we recommend, at a fraction of the price of other coats we tested.
The Watertight II was the most size-inclusive men’s coat we found, with options for regular, plus, and tall sizes that extended to 6X. It comes in over a dozen colors, more than any of our other picks, and we think there are choices here to cover a neutral, workweek style or a bright, sporty weekend look.
Testers appreciated that the Watertight II had the least boxy fit compared with similarly cut jackets (most preferred a slim cut), but they still had plenty of room to add layers. Because it’s a shorter coat, the Watertight II is compact enough to keep in your car for surprise rain showers or to toss into your work bag on those iffy-weather days. One Wirecutter staffer who has had the Watertight II for several years especially likes how the coat can be packed down into its own hand pocket for easy transport, noting, “That came in handy on a theme park trip.”
The Watertight II’s seams are taped on the inside for extra protection against leaks, and the hood was deep enough to shield testers’ faces from the rain. Testers said the pockets were well sized and comfortably placed for easy access to things like phones and wallets. This is the thinnest men’s raincoat we recommend, but the nylon fabric feels the softest and the most fluid, so it’s easy to move your arms around without that stiff, constrained feeling that often comes with wearing a synthetic coat. With its light fabric and mesh lining, the Watertight II is more breathable than our other picks—none of the testers worried about overheating.
My husband has been wearing the Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket since 2019. The Watertight II has been perfect for outdoor activities like mowing the lawn and fixing things—I even saw him wear the Columbia Watertight II to cut down a fallen tree with a chainsaw.
He tells me that it’s his favorite jacket to wear because he feels comfortable throwing it on everyday; its pockets are roomy and at a comfortable angle to keep his hands inside, and the hood covers his head without falling into his eyes. Plus, it’s not too heavy or warm.
My husband wears an XXL in the Columbia Watertight II Jacket, and he often comments positively on the cut and the coverage: He says the shape is great because he can wear it unzipped, and the hood will do its job without getting in his face. With other rain jackets, he has to be fastened all the way up to get the hood to function properly.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Watertight II’s pockets are made of mesh, which could cause keys or small objects to become tangled, and one tester wasn’t sure whether they would stay dry. Another tester wished for an inside pocket, too. Some of our testers thought the hood was maybe too deep; one said that he has to flip up the front of it for better visibility, and another wanted a tab on the peak to help adjust it. Testers also noted that the jacket’s zippers were a little small to grab hold of and that they occasionally caught in the fabric.
Sizes: S–XXL, plus 1X–6X, tall L–5X
Colors: 33 colors (though not all colors are available in every size)
Materials: nylon
Patagonia Men’s Torrentshell 3L
For outdoor adventures.
This breathable waterproof jacket is designed with hiking, backpacking, and other activities in mind. Features like a deep hood and extra-long sleeves help keep you dry, while the generous cut makes it ideal for layering over other clothing.
Patagonia Women’s Torrentshell 3L
Who this is for: Someone who wants a raincoat specifically for outdoor activities such as day hiking or backpacking, or even the occasional ski trip.
Why it’s great: A simple, no-frills rain shell is one of the key pieces of an outdoors wardrobe. If you want to stay dry, the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L ( men’s and women’s ) works better than the other nine outdoorsy options we tried, thanks to a big hood that amply covers your head and a stiff brim that moves water away from your nose and chin.
This used to be a two-and-a-half-layer jacket, but the 2019 redesign introduced a full fabric lining to the interior, making it a three-layer coat. This means the inside printed layer that can sometimes flake off—the Achilles’ heel of this sort of light, packable hiking coat—is now covered in a breathable fabric that protects it, giving you a much more durable coat. The trade-off is that it got more expensive and a little bit heavier, but the additional ounce or so won’t make much of a difference for general outdoor use.
This is still a waterproof/breathable jacket, meaning that water stays out and vapor trapped in the coat is pushed out, as well. For a long time, the household name for this type of fabric was Gore-Tex, but there are now at least a dozen other options. This one is made out of Patagonia’s in-house H2No waterproof/breathable fabric.
However, if you’re being active in this jacket and getting sweaty, open it up and air it out. The membrane alone won’t transfer all your heat. For that reason, all good outdoor coats have vents under the armpits; the Torrentshell 3L is no exception. You can also undo the zipper when the rain lets up and dump all the heat in one go.
There are some details that make the Torrentshell extra-watertight that we didn’t find on any other hiking jacket. Its pockets are fully lined, an alternative to more common mesh pockets, which can let moisture in and transfer it to your clothes. It has a double storm flap over the zipper that stays shut without the use of Velcro, so you can zip your coat while wearing gloves and they won’t snag. And zero elastic on the cuff means water slides off the coat instead of onto your wrist.
The fit is generous, which makes this coat ideal for layering when it gets cold. It comes in several colors, including a few eye scorchers, so you can be easily seen on the trail on a cloudy day. We also think Patagonia provides one of the best warranties in the industry.
Staff writer Dorie Chevlen has been wearing the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L (women’s) for several years now without issue. The zippers still pull smoothly, and there has been no tearing. And she has noticed that she remains especially dry in her jacket, even when it’s storming outside. (She has yet to take the Torrentshell on a ski trip.)
“The Patagonia is super light,” noted Wirecutter’s Justin Krajeski of his Patagonia Torrentshell 3L (men’s). “It hardly feels like I’m wearing a rain jacket at all, and the fit is roomy, so layering underneath to stay warm is welcome and appreciated.” It might be downright essential, depending on the temperature outside—as Dorie points out, the Torrentshell is not very warm just on its own, so adding layers could be make-or-break in terms of comfort.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The front pockets on this coat don’t work well with a backpack; the straps cover them. Unfortunately, that was the case for every single hiking jacket we tried—we wore a backpack over all of them—with the exception of the Montbell Thunder Pass, which is now discontinued.
Women’s sizes: XXS–XXL Men’s sizes: XS–3XL
Colors: over a dozen colors in women’s and men’s
Other option: Women’s Torrentshell 3L Rain Parka
Materials: recycled nylon, polycarbonate membrane, tricot backer, durable water-repellent finish
Returns/warranty: Patagonia has no set time limit for returns, asking only that “returns for fit or color be made in a timely manner and that items be kept in new condition with tags attached.” If you return something more than a year after you’ve bought it, you’ll get a credit instead of cash. The “ ironclad guarantee ” promises repair, replacement, or refund at any time if you’re not happy with an item; the company charges a “reasonable” fee to repair damage due to normal wear.
Eddie Bauer Girl On The Go Insulated Trench Coat
Versatile and warm.
This women’s raincoat doubles as a winter coat, but you can remove the insulated lining during warmer weather.
Why it’s great: The Eddie Bauer Girl On The Go Insulated Trench Coat is the most versatile women’s coat we tested. With a detachable insulation layer, the Girl On The Go works as a comfy raincoat or winter coat. All of our testers thought the style was flattering, and the Girl On The Go comes in more sizes than any other women’s coat on our list. There’s also a non-insulated version available if you don’t need the extra warmth.
We love the idea of a single coat that can carry you through rainy days and moderate winter weather. Eddie Bauer says this coat will keep you warm down to 35-degree temperatures for everyday activities, and even lower if you’re more active. With the liner, the Girl On The Go coat feels toasty and snug without having the bulk of a winter parka. Without the liner, this trench is roomy but still stylish.
We also tried the Lands’ End 3 in 1 Squall Rain Jacket , another coat with a removable insulated layer, and the Girl On The Go looked smoother and was less restrictive in the sleeves, and the insulation was easier to remove. The Girl On The Go has simple lines and a slightly nipped waist that were flattering on every tester’s body shape, and most of our testers agreed that the fit was true to size (our petite tester found it a little too snug). The Girl On The Go comes in more sizes than any of our other women’s picks; the four neutral colors should work for most tastes.
The Girl On The Go’s fabric is softer than the fabric of our other women’s picks, and it has a slightly brushed texture. The pockets are lined in a soft, fleecy fabric that feels wonderful on the hands, and the two-way zippers feel sturdy and durable. One tester did have a coat with a sticky zipper, but we think it was a fluke. The seams are taped to keep water from leaking through as on the L.L.Bean coats, and the Girl On The Go is our only pick with a removable hood, if you prefer a trench style.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Because the fabric is brushed, the fibers don’t lie as flat as on other coats we recommend. We observed this with a magnifier—the coat had little fibers sticking up from the surface of the weave, and the more we washed it, the more fuzzy fibers we saw. We think this affects how quickly it repels water. It kept our testers dry and never looked or felt saturated, but without a smooth surface for water to roll off of, some water soaked into the coat.
The Girl On The Go is the only coat we recommend that didn’t have adjustable cuffs, which made the sleeve lengths feel awkward for some testers. The cuffs also won’t keep rain away if you lift your arms up, but we didn’t notice a problem with wet arms in our testing (and we weren’t practicing our raise-the-roof moves during downpours). Also, our testers disagreed on the hood—one found it too deep, one found it too shallow, and another found it just right.
Sizes: XS–XXL, petite XS–XL, plus 1X–3X, tall S–XXL
Colors: charcoal gray, black, grape, twilight (navy), redwood (rusty red)
Other options: non-insulated
Returns/warranty: one-year returns
I’m Wirecutter’s staff textiles writer on the sleep team—I’ve written our guides on everything from sheets to pajamas to blackout curtains . I know a lot about testing fabric after my years here at Wirecutter, so I left the cozy comfort of my usual bedding testing to venture out into the cold, wet world of raincoats. Over the years I’ve walked the streets of New York City in torrential downpours and I’ve endured a hurricane and a superstorm at the Jersey Shore, and now I live in the woods of the Pacific Northwest, where a sturdy raincoat is as essential as sunscreen is in Florida.
I’m also plus-size, so I know that it can take a little more work to find clothes that offer style and a good fit. For this guide, I prioritized coats with inclusive sizing. Our picks won’t work for every body, but I researched more than 100 coats to find a range of size diversity.
I built on writer Eve O’Neill’s extensive knowledge and research for the precursor to this guide (she also contributed the section on the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L in fall 2020), as well as on writer Anna Perling’s research (she wrote the original version of our guide to the best rain pants ). I also emailed Kate Borgia, senior designer for outerwear at Eddie Bauer at the time of our interview, and Dan Simon, corporate merchandising manager at L.L.Bean , to ask about the fabrics and features people really need in an everyday raincoat.
The raincoats in this guide are meant for day-to-day life. They’re the raincoats we wear to the office or to brunch, that we throw in the car just in case, or that we grab when heading to the stadium to watch a rainy-day game. These jackets will all repel water equally well, so consider the ones that come in styles, sizes, lengths, and prices that match your needs.
Because these coats don’t need to withstand extreme backcountry conditions, we didn’t weigh their technical specs and performance features heavily. We focused on finding coats that came in inclusive sizes and versatile colors, and in a range of lengths, styles, and warmths that would work for different urban lifestyles. We also considered coats to suit a range of budgets.
There are so many raincoats in the world. We researched by skimming articles from Forbes , The Strategist , and GQ ; by checking outerwear brands that we’ve either tested or know by reputation; and by searching Instagram hashtags such as #raincoats to find styles we may have otherwise missed. We also went on a shopping trip in New York City so that several staffers could check coats for sizing, fit, and style.
Our initial list consisted of 134 jackets and coats in men’s and women’s styles. After consulting with Kate Borgia, who at the time of our interview was Eddie Bauer’s senior designer for outerwear, and Dan Simon, L.L.Bean’s corporate merchandising manager, we settled on this list of essential features:
Lots of sizes: Finding the best-quality raincoats in the most sizes was our top priority. We considered some coats with more-limited sizing if we couldn’t find similar well-made options with more-inclusive sizing.
Thoughtful design: Eddie Bauer’s Borgia told us that the best everyday raincoat designs should be versatile enough for a wide variety of people. We aimed for a range of picks, from the simplest shapes to more modern options that were flattering on different bodies. L.L.Bean’s Simon mentioned that everyday raincoats are often longer than outdoors-focused coats (the length helps protect clothes underneath) and come in more “city-friendly” colors. We looked at hip-length, mid-thigh, and ankle-length coats, and searched for coats in neutrals as well as some brighter colors to add personality to your closet.
Reliable availability: Since clothes are seasonal, we stuck with coats that had customer reviews going back at least a year.
Versatility: Eddie Bauer’s Borgia told us that everyday raincoats should have room for lighter or heavier layers underneath to accommodate different types of commutes. She also noted that breathability is less of a concern than with outdoor raincoats because people tend to wear them for shorter periods of time. We looked for coats that worked for most seasons and wouldn’t cause intense overheating on a summer commute. (We did, of course, take breathability into account when testing our hiking pick.)
Water resistant: All of the jackets we tested were water resistant in our testing. They will keep someone dry in most conditions—short of hiking through a full-on storm. The experts we spoke with told us that everyday raincoats don’t need to be as thoroughly waterproof as performance raincoats for extended outdoor use. The jackets needed to keep our testers dry during their normal routines, but we didn’t expect them to withstand the same conditions that we would if they were sailing during a squall. We did expect the coats to keep repelling water perfectly after several washes, and all of the coats we tested did that.
A roomy hood: A hood should be deep enough to keep water off the face, whether you have no hair or the thickest, curliest mane. We also looked for coats with removable hoods, although we didn’t find many.
Extra details: We looked for features that help keep water out and make raincoats easier to wear and use. Eddie Bauer’s Borgia told us to look for seams that were taped on the inside to keep excess water out. Simon told us that two-way zippers are often a nice feature on non-performance raincoats: They let you unzip the bottom of your coat to make the fit more comfortable when you’re sitting down, and they allow you to just let some air in if you’re hot. We also wanted roomy pockets that protected hands and items from the rain.
For testing, we narrowed our contenders down to 11 women’s styles and 10 men’s styles. We sent all of the coats to a panel of six staff testers (including me), half in New York City and half in the Pacific Northwest.
Three testers wore women’s styles (one petite, one tall, one plus-size) and three wore men’s styles (one regular, one tall, one plus-size). Testers spent a few weeks with these coats, trying them on and wearing them in the rain when they could.
I tried all 21 coats in the rain and also ran dribbles of water down the sleeves over a sink to see how the water beaded and repelled from each one. I hung the coats on hangers to see if they looked wet or dripped excessively while air-drying. I also washed and dried the coats three times, checking for shrinkage, damage, or changes to their water repellency. I found that most of the coats barely shrank (some even stretched out a bit), and all of them completely maintained their water resistance.
I also examined each coat with a magnifying glass to see how the fabrics held up after washing and found only a handful—typically those with cotton in them—that had signs of loose or fuzzy fibers.
I compiled all of the testers’ feedback with my notes, and we settled on our six picks.
In summer 2020, writer Eve O’Neill tested the new version of Patagonia’s Torrentshell jacket, and we added that as a pick to this guide.
Unless you’re wearing your raincoat in muddy conditions or sweating profusely, you don’t need to wash it very often. Eddie Bauer’s Kate Borgia, who at the time of our interview was Eddie Bauer’s senior designer for outerwear, told us that when companies test raincoats to rate waterproofing and how long it lasts, they wash everyday raincoats for a fraction of the times (five to 10 washes) that they do high-performance raincoats (20 or sometimes even 50 washes).
When you do wash, follow the care instructions on the label. The labels on most coats we tested said to wash in cold water and tumble dry low.
If you start to notice a change in how your coat repels water over time—the water no longer beads off the surface but instead absorbs into the top layer—you should refresh the DWR (durable water repellent) coating, which is sprayed on most raincoats to help keep water from absorbing into the fabric.
This can be done by tossing the jacket in the dryer, physically reapplying the layer with a product like Nikwax TX.Direct , or even ironing the outside of it. To find out which method is best, check the specific care instructions for the material your jacket is made out of. Also, not every coat we tested mentioned having a DWR layer (although it’s pretty common), so consult with the company’s customer service first.
This is not a comprehensive list of everything we tested in previous iterations of this guide, just what’s still available.
Women’s styles
Our testers really liked the hip-length style of the Eddie Bauer Charly Jacket , and I thought it was one of the best-looking raincoats we tried—but it wasn’t long enough to cover a rear end. It was also less breathable than other coats we tried.
Our staffers tried the Everlane ReNew Anorak jacket on in store, but it felt surprisingly cheap compared with other jackets we tried. Testers thought the fabric seemed thinner than that of similarly priced coats, and the sizing was not inclusive.
The hip-length Lands’ End Women’s 3 in 1 Squall Rain Jacket had a bulky fleece insert that made wearing the coat very unpleasant. Without the fleece it was still tight in the arms. We’ve noticed that Lands’ End offers this coat most years, but it doesn’t always stay in stock.
Testers said the mid-thigh version of the L.L.Bean Women’s Trail Model Rain Coat had an inconsistent fit, which is something that reviews have also noted. (We used to recommend the hip-length version in the precursor to this guide.) Testers also thought the quality didn’t match the price.
We visited Macy’s to look at several London Fog raincoats , because it’s such a classic rainwear brand. The fabrics felt cheaper than the fabrics of the budget coats we considered, and the styles—we saw a lot of double-layer collars—just didn’t feel modern.
The Snap-Front Hooded Raincoat By Ellos is a super-cute mid-thigh-length coat. We were disappointed that the upper arms were so tight we could barely move, since this is the only coat from a plus-size brand that we tested.
Men’s styles
In stores, we liked the look of the men’s hip-length Eddie Bauer Cloud Cap 2.0 Stretch Rain Jacket , but we thought it was better suited to backcountry wear.
The L.L.Bean Men’s Trail Model Rain Coat , the mid-thigh version of the Trail Model Jacket, performed well in our water and wear tests, but the length wasn’t popular with our testers, who generally preferred shorter jackets. Opt for this coat if you like a longer length on a more active style.
We tried the new hip-length L.L.Bean Men’s Trail Model Rain Jacket (currently unavailable), a version of a former pick in the precursor to this guide. Our testers didn’t have any problems with the fit (one recommended sizing down for a slim fit), but it came in fewer sizes than our pick, the Columbia Watertight II Jacket , and cost a little more.
The REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket is well made and well priced, and it comes in seven colors. It fully repelled water in our tests. Although it comes in fewer sizes than the Columbia Watertight II , it was the next-best hip-length jacket we tested. Two of our testers recommended sizing down for a slim fit.
Unisex styles
We tried on the Rains Jacket , Long Jacket , and Cape in store. (The Rains website lists the coats separately as men’s and women’s, but they’re really the same.) All of the styles looked very cool. But we had to ask a salesperson for the largest sizes—they stocked them, but they kept them hidden behind the counter, which we thought was ridiculous. (Hopefully, that policy has changed since 2019.) The company carries sizes XS through XXL online; we’d also like to see that range expand.
Stutterheim’s Stockholm Raincoat , made of rubberized cotton, is stylish, but in our tests it wasn’t breathable. Plus, this design closes with buttons, making it harder to fasten the front. (One tester commented, “There is no zipper and I hate it.”) The largest size was XXL, but testers found it significantly tighter than the corresponding size for coats of other brands.
This article was edited by Catherine Kast, Anna Perling, Ingela Ratledge Amundson, and Jennifer Hunter.
What is the best lightweight rain jacket?
At 0.9 pounds, the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is the lightest rain jacket we recommend. Available in both men and women ’s sizing, it’s a simple, no-frills rain shell, and is lighter than the 1.1-pound Columbia Watertight II Jacket or the 2-pound Helly Hansen Moss Rain Coat we like. The Torrentshell is constructed from Patagonia’s proprietary (and lightweight) H2No fabric—the company’s take on a Gore-Tex-style light and breathable waterproof fabric—which helps keep the jacket’s weight down.
What is the best rain jacket for backpacking?
The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L ( men’s and women’s ) is the best rain jacket for backpacking because it’s made from a light and waterproof (yet breathable) fabric. With long sleeves, a large hood, and a generous cut, it covers your body well and can be easily layered over whatever outfit you’re hiking in.
What is the best rain jacket for the money?
The jackets we recommend from Columbia—the Women’s Arcadia II and the Men’s Watertight II Jacket —offer a great value. They’re just as good at keeping water off as jackets that cost three times as much, and have cute and flattering cuts. Both are available in a wider variety of colors than any other rain jacket we tested (55 colors in the women’s jacket and 33 colors in the men’s jacket).
Kate Borgia, senior designer for outerwear at Eddie Bauer , email interview , May 15, 2019
Dan Simon, L.L.Bean outerwear merchant manager , email interview , May 15, 2019
Alexandra Ilyashov and Dominique Pariso, The Best Rain Jackets for Warm Weather, According to People Who Work in Fashion , The Strategist , March 15, 2019
Amanda Oleri, Best Raincoats For Women , Forbes , March 7, 2019
Yang-Yi Goh, 15 Raincoats Handsome Enough to Make You Beg for Bad Weather , GQ , April 19, 2018
Meet your guide
Jackie Reeve
Jackie Reeve is a senior staff writer covering bedding, organization, and home goods at Wirecutter since 2015. Previously she was a school librarian, and she’s been a quilter for about 15 years. Her quilt patterns and her other written work have appeared in various publications. She moderates Wirecutter’s staff book club and makes her bed every morning.
Further reading
Getting Outside on a Rainy Day
by Kit Dillon
This is the gear we’d use during—and after—a rainy-day outing.
The Best Deals From REI’s Annual Member-Only Sale 2022
by Jordan Thomas
REI’s annual member-only sale has begun. These are the best deals we’ve found so far.
How to See the Best of San Francisco on $100
by Sally French
San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the world, but if you closely follow this four-day itinerary, your visit won’t cost more than $100.
How to Play Outside More This Winter, According to Outdoor-School Teachers
by Rose Maura Lorre
The right gear—and attitude—can help you coax your kids (and yourself) into embracing the elements.
Best Lightweight Rain Jacket for Travel
If you are on the hunt for the best lightweight rain jacket for travel, then you have come to the right place. This guide takes you through everything you need to think about when purchasing the perfect waterproof travel jacket for your next trip.
When it comes to the best men’s and best women’s rain jacket for travel you don’t only want it to keep you dry in case of a downpour while sightseeing, you also want it to be lightweight and packable. You certainly don’t want to be lugging around a bulky jacket “just in case” it rains, nor do you want a cheap one that doesn’t do its job keeping you dry.
This guide takes you through everything you need to know to purchase the perfect lightweight, packable rain jacket. First, I’ll take you through the various features you need to consider when looking for a travel rain jacket and then take a closer look at some of the best jackets currently on the market.
This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to my disclaimer here for more information.
Table of Contents
Why should you consider a Lightweight Waterproof Travel Jacket?
You probably already have a rain jacket at home and are so wondering if it’s really necessary to purchase a lightweight rain jacket just for travel. Well, the main advantage of a travel rain jacket is they are super lightweight – unlike the one you probably have at home, which is perhaps reasonably bulky.
Given a travel rain jacket is so lightweight – it’s usually relatively thin and doesn’t do a lot more than keep you dry in case of a downpour. A lightweight rain jacket is not designed to keep you warm – it’s just intended to keep you dry. This may not be ideal in some cold destinations such as Europe or Canada in the middle of winter, but if you’re heading to a tropical destination like somewhere in South East Asia or the pacific – a lightweight rain jacket for travel is perfect.
So sure, you could lug around your heavy rain jacket with you – just in case it rains – but a lightweight rain jacket is so much for more convenience. It will take up next to no space in your luggage – you’ll be able to throw it in the bottom of your backpack during the day, and you’ll probably forget it’s even there. However, if you’re out and about and it does start raining – you sure will appreciate the fact that you brought it along with you.
If you like to travel light – having a lightweight rain jacket for travel is the ultimate!
Our Pick for the Best Lightweight Rain Jacket for Travel: Marmot PreCip Jackets
Don’t have time to read my entire men and womens travel raincoat guide? I just love the Marmot PreCip rain jackets . For the money, these jackets offer exceptional value.
The Marmot PreCip men’s and women’s jackets are not only lightweight, but they are great had keeping you dry in a downpour and pack down nice and compact
Click here to purchase the Marmot women’s jacket or here for the Marmot men’s jacket . Keep reading below for my detailed review.
Comparison Chart for the Best Men’s and Women’s Travel Raincoat
Check out the table below for a quick and easy comparison of the travel rain jacket (women’s and men’s) options reviewed in this guide. For further information, keep reading the reviews below.
Things to Consider when Purchasing the Best Men’s & Best Women’s Rain Jacket for Travel
What makes the best lightweight rain jacket for travel depends on a few things. To ensure you get the best jacket, I recommend you consider the factors below.
Lightweight
Given the point of a lightweight rain jacket is to be lightweight, one of the most important factors to consider is the weight of the jacket.
Ensure your jackets weighs no more than 10 -11 ounces. In fact, some of the very best outdoor brands make jackets close to half that weight. This means that not only will your jacket not take up much space in your luggage; it won’t be an issue in terms of strict weight restrictions that many airlines are now stringently enforcing.
With a lightweight jacket, you’ll be able to pop it in the bottom of your backpack and go about your day to day sightseeing without even realizing its there. But in case of a downpour, you’ll be well protected.
You might also like the best rain pants for men.
Packability
As well as jackets being lightweight, a good travel rain jacket needs to be packable. In other words, this means that the jacket packs down nice and small, so it’s not only lightweight but also takes up barely any space in your bag either.
Some of the best lightweight rain jackets come with their own little stuff sacks or even have built-in pockets, so when not in use, you can easily store them away.
Fabric: Number of Layers and Quality
When it comes to considering the fabrics used to make rain jackets, its helpful to understand the makeup of a rain jacket. Generally, a rain jacket will have up to three layers – an outer layer, a middle waterproof membrane and a lining. The more layers a jacket has, the better it is at not only keeping you dry but also in letting out hot air and sweat. However, the more layers, the bulkier the jacket is.
Top-quality jackets will have the number of layers clearly identified. Look for mention of either 2L, 2.5L or 3L.
To ensure your rain jacket keeps you well protected, you want to look for a jacket made from high-quality, durable fabrics. While rain jackets from the top outdoor brands may seem expensive, these brands use high-quality materials to ensure your jackets not only keep you well protected, but last for years.
Breathability
One of the biggest downsides of a rain jacket is its inability to be breathable – that is not adequately letting out perspiration or hot air. This means that if you’re in a warm climate – you will most likely get hot and sweaty while wearing your rain jacket.
However technology has come along away, and top quality brand jackets are likely to perform better in terms of breathability than the cheaper jackets.
If you’re the sort of person that gets hot quickly – look for jackets that mention increased breathability. Rain jackets made with three layers tend to perform best in terms of breathability.
Price
When it comes to lightweight rain jackets, there is a huge range of prices. You can pick one up for $20 as well as spend well over a few hundred dollars.
You’ll note that I haven’t included any $20 rain jackets in this guide. That’s because although cheap, these jackets are really not worth the money. If you’re going to buy a rain jacket, then you might as well make an investment in a good quality one, that you know will perform well when you need it to, as well as last you years to come.
Pockets and other Features
Ok so we’ve covered all the essential features to consider when it comes to a lightweight rain jacket – let’s talk about the nice to have.
Some jackets come with exterior or interior pockets, removable hoods, or hoods with a drawstring (I recommend this to ensure the hood stays well secured on your head), jackets with drawstring waists and cuffs, double-ended zippers – the list goes on.
As to what features are important – that really depends on your personal preferences and also perhaps how much money you’re willing to spend. Just note that usually the more features, the heavier and bulkier the jacket becomes.
The Best Travel Rain Jacket (Women’s) Reviews 2020
Below I’ve listed five great options for the best women’s raincoat for travel.
The cheapest rain jacket in these reviews, the Columbia Arcadia jacket comes in a stack of great colours and is perfect for keeping you dry.
Made with Omni-Tech material, this lightweight travel women’s raincoat will keep you dry, while also being breathable. This jacket features two layers of fabric with a soft mesh lining inside the jacket.
For a low-priced jacket, the Arcadia comes with loads of features. This jacket has an adjustable hood, drawcord adjustable hem, and dual zippered hand pockets. Plus it’s also easy to carry, folding up into a built-in pocket.
While not the lightest of lightweight jackets, for the price and what it offers, it’s a great jacket for keeping dry on your travels.
The ladies Marmot PreCip rain jacket is among one of the most highly rated rain jackets currently on the market and my pick for the best lightweight rain jacket for travel. Coming with some great features and all at a great price, it’s not surprisingly this is such a popular jacket
This 2.5L jacket is made with comfortable and breathable NanoPro fabric which is completely waterproof. With the NanoPro’s microporous structure, water won’t soak into your jacket, and the taped seams ensure that all points are sealed to prevent any leaks.
To aid in ventilation, this Marmot jacket also has PitZips (side zippers) which allow you to let out hot air quickly, and get some cool air in. Other features of this jacket include a drawstring hood and hem as well as Velcro cuffs to help prevent leaks and to improve temperature control. The jacket also has two deep front pockets.
Weighing in at 9.6 oz, this Marmot jacket is a great lightweight rain jacket for travel and also comes in a range of great colours to choose from.
Yet another highly popular rain jacket, North Face’s Venture 2 is an excellent choice for anyone after a great priced jacket to keep them dry in wet weather conditions.
This 2.5L jacket is made with a durable 100% windproof and waterproof exterior fabric. It also has cuff and hem drawcords for a better fit and to keep out wet weather. For those who need the extra ventilation, you’ll appreciate that the jacket has zippers under the armpits.
The jacket also has an adjustable hood and zipper hand pockets. Plus for easy storage the jacket stuffs away into its own pocket, making it perfect for throwing in the bottom of your day pack.
The North Face Venture 2 rain jacket is the perfect companion to keep you well protected from poor weather conditions.
4. Outdoor Research Women’s Helium II Jacket
At just 5.5 ounces – the women’s Outdoor Research Helium II jacket is by far the lightest rain jacket in these reviews. You can keep this jacket at the bottom of your backpack or even in your handbag – just in case you encounter wet weather during a day of sightseeing.
Not only is this jacket lightweight, but it’s also ridiculously packable. This little jacket packs down to about the size of a mobile phone! Plus you can clip it on the outside of your bag if you need to with the carabiner loop.
But don’t let its size fool you, this is a great performer too. The Pertex waterproof fabric is great at keeping you dry, and all seams are fully sealed as well as the zipper being protected with YKK® AquaGuard® waterproofing technology.
Given how lightweight this jacket is, it doesn’t feature any extras like the heavier rain jackets in this review, but it does come with a hood as well as one chest pocket.
For those just after a no-frills lightweight rain jacket that they can pop into the smallest of small day packs or their handbag, you really can’t beat the Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket.
Click here to check the current price or to read more reviews.
5. Arc’teryx Zeta SL Jacket
If you’ve booked that dream trip and have just discovered that heavy rain is predicted – then you’re going to want to ensure you have the best protection – which is where the Arc’teryx Zeta SL jacket comes in. This rain jacket is a top of the line product which will keep well protected in poor weather conditions.
Made with high-quality 2L Gore-Tex fabric with Paclite Plus technology, not only is this jacket waterproof and windproof, but it also performs well in the snow too. The jacket has a watertight front zipper, taped seams, and an adjustable hood, cuffs, and hem to seal out the weather. Other features of this jacket include two hand pockets, chin guard with soft brushed microsuede.
This is by no means a cheap rain jacket, but if you want to make the investment upfront for a top-quality rain jacket to keep you well protected for years and years to come, the Arc’teryx Zeta SL jacket is one to consider.
The Best Travel Rain Jacket (Men’s) Reviews 2020
Below I’ve listed five great options for the best men’s raincoat for travel.
For men after a good quality but a cheap option, Columbia’s Watertight II rain jacket is well worth considering. It’s rated highly by many people and is among one of the best-selling lightweight rain jackets for travel.
Made with Omni-Tech material, this jacket will keep you dry, while also being breathable. This jacket features two layers of fabric with a soft mesh lining inside the jacket.
For a low-priced jacket, the Watertight II comes with loads of features. This jacket has an adjustable hood, drawcord adjustable hem, dual-zippered hand pockets, a visored hood, and a chin guard to avoid zipper to chin chafing. Plus it’s also easy to carry, folding up into a built-in pocket.
Yet another highly popular rain jacket, the Marmot men’s PreCip rain jacket is an excellent choice for anyone after a great priced jacket to keep them dry in wet weather conditions.
To aid in ventilation, this Marmot jacket also has zippers under the armpits which allow you to let out hot air quickly, and get some cool air in. Other features of this jacket include a drawstring hood and hem as well as Velcro cuffs to help prevent leaks and to improve temperature control. The jacket also has two deep front pockets, which can be stuffed into when not in use and for easy carrying.
Weighing in at 11 oz, this Marmot jacket is a great lightweight rain jacket for travel and comes in a range of great colours to choose from too.
The North Face men’s Venture 2 jacket is among one of the most highly rated rain jackets currently on the market. It’s not surprising this is such a popular jacket, given it comes with some great features and all at a great price.
This 2.5L jacket is made with a durable 100% windproof and waterproof exterior fabric. It also has cuff and hem drawcords for a better fit and to keep out wet weather. For those who needed the extra ventilation, you’ll appreciate that the jacket has zippers under the armpits.
At just 6.4 ounces – the Outdoor Research Helium II jacket is by far the lightest men’s rain jacket in these reviews. You can keep this jacket at the bottom of your backpack or stuff it into your hiking pants pocket – just in case you encounter wet weather conditions during a day of sightseeing.
Not only is this jacket lightweight, but it’s also ridiculously packable. This little jacket packs down to about the size of a granola bar! Plus you can clip it on the outside of your bag, or even your belt loop if you need to with the carabiner loop.
But don’t let its size fool you, the Helium II has impressive waterproofing too. The 2.5 – layer Pertex waterproof fabric is great at keeping you dry, as is the fully taped seams and the single zipper which is protected with YKK® AquaGuard® waterproofing technology.
For those just after a no-frills lightweight rain jacket that they can pop into the smallest of small day packs or even hiking pants pocket, you really can’t beat the Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket.
If you’re ready to invest in a top of the line lightweight rain jacket, then the Arc’teryx Zeta SL jacket is certainly one to consider. This rain jacket is a top of the line product which will keep well protected in poor weather conditions.
Made with high-quality 2L Gore-Tex fabric with Paclite Plus technology, not only is this jacket waterproof and windproof, but it also performs well in the snow too. The jacket has a watertight front zipper, taped seams, and an adjustable hood, cuffs, and hem to seal out the weather. Other features of this jacket include two hand pockets and a chin guard with a soft brushed microsuede.
This is the most expensive lightweight rain jacket in these reviews, but if you want to make the investment upfront for a top-quality jacket to keep you well protected for years and years to come, the Arc’teryx Zeta SL jacket is the perfect one to consider.
Disclaimer: Travel Passionate is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and its partners. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.
Affiliate advertising is used throughout this site. These affiliate ads allow me to earn a small commission on any bookings you may make but they do not incur any extra cost to you.
Sharing is caring!
Leave a Comment Cancel reply
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Advertiser Disclosure
Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .
The 10 Best Rain Ponchos for Travel [2023]
Amar Hussain
Senior Content Contributor
Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9
Keri Stooksbury
Editor-in-Chief
Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28
Things To Consider in Travel Ponchos
1. unisex poncho that fits a backpack, 2. hooded rain jacket poncho, 3. ultra-thin breathable poncho, 4. multi-functional option with large zipper pockets, 5. family pack of travel ponchos, 6. 5-pack emergency ponchos for family travel, 7. ultra-lightweight compact travel poncho, 8. reversible, lined women’s packable poncho, 9. disposable poncho pack for kids, 10. clear and elastic emergency rain ponchos, final thoughts.
We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.
If you’re looking for one portable item of clothing that keeps you warm and dry in cold weather or the rainy season while traveling, ponchos are a great choice. Still, even frequent travelers may be surprised by all there is to know about this incredible addition to your travel necessities.
Travel ponchos combine comfort and protection with the usability of having all sorts of pockets. Get to know the features to look for in this travel must-have before your next adventure.
It’s important to consider several important factors to gauge the quality of a poncho. These factors will help you define your purposes for a poncho while traveling, so you can pick the best one for you.
It’s all about comfort, warmth, water protection, zippers, and hoodies with travel ponchos. Even so, there are a few things that deserve a more detailed look before deciding on the best ponchos for travel.
Poncho Materials
You might want to consider a travel poncho’s material before making a purchase. Even ponchos that appear similar at a glance can be vastly different when it comes to the type and quality of their materials. The best materials for a travel poncho are PVC, polyester, and nylon , all of which have waterproof properties.
These materials guarantee durability and wear resistance, along with water protection in case of rain.
Poncho Size
A poncho’s usability and comfort have a lot to do with its size, even though all are designed for near-complete body coverage. This is mostly down to the fact that some travelers like wearing larger backpacks than others. The whole point of a travel poncho is to protect your entire body from rain and cold weather , including your belongings.
Bottom Line: A poncho should extend well below your waist and cover a good part of your legs as well.
Comfort in Use
Comfort doesn’t only depend on high-quality material; it also depends on practicality. Since you will probably be carrying a backpack on your travels, remember to test the length and arm span of your poncho.
If you can maintain coverage while comfortably moving your arms and legs with a large backpack on your shoulders, then your poncho is the right size . Also, it couldn’t hurt to have a travel poncho with an easily adjustable hoodie and various zipper pockets to keep your phone, wallet, and documents dry.
A travel poncho’s design partly depends on the material, but other factors also come into play. One of the most important features to look for in a travel poncho is a packable design that allows you to transport it in your bag without trouble.
It’s also important to stress the relevance of fast-drying ponchos since you’re likely to be bringing your poncho to wet climates. If you buy a fast-drying poncho, the chances are that you will be ready to get back on the road after rain in no time, with all your items safe and dry.
Hot Tip: Prefer a raincoat to a poncho? Check out our guide to the best waterproof jackets for men and women .
The 10 Best Rain Ponchos for Travel
Now that we’ve addressed what to look for in a travel poncho, let’s dive into the best options. It’s all about having a diverse choice of travel ponchos to choose from when it comes to making a final decision, so enjoy this comprehensive list.
ANYOO Waterproof Rain Poncho
A great versatile travel poncho option is the ANYOO unisex poncho, with space for up to a 50-liter-capacity backpack . This poncho is also unique in that it can be used for other purposes as well. Namely, this 3-in-1 poncho can also be used as a groundsheet or a sun shelter.
It’s hooded, includes an adjustable cord, and is completely waterproof for maximum weather protection. It has button snaps for when you use it as a poncho and grommets that are used to support a tarp. It’s a one-size poncho, but it covers even the largest of backpacks, so you can easily use it for all your travels.
The 100% polyester material with PVC coating protects against rain, steam, or wind, making it suitable for all weather conditions.
What We Like:
- Highly versatile
What We Don’t Like:
- One-size-fits-all concept
Hot Tip: If you need to keep more of your body dry, check out our guides to the best waterproof pants and the best waterproof shoes for men and women .
SaphiRose Rain Poncho Jacket Coat for Adults
For a travel poncho with universal appeal, you are best off with an option that includes a carrying pouch. The SaphiRose poncho jacket for adults is a great choice because it has a carrying bag and thanks to its material and properties.
The 100 % polyester fabric ensures high comfort and an eco-friendly, waterproof design . Rain simply glides down the jacket, so you won’t have to worry about your legs or shoes getting wet. This versatile poncho is suitable for all sorts of travel situations.
Some of the standout features of this particular poncho are button sleeves, waterproof coating, an adjustable hood, and zipper pockets. The full width of the poncho is 57.4 inches with your arms stretched out.
- A perfect blend of comfort and cold-weather protection
- It could have more zipper pockets in the front or the back
FROGG TOGGS Men’s Ultra-Lite2 Waterproof Breathable Poncho
When it comes to traveling equipment, FROGG TOGGS has made a name for itself, and its ultra-thin breathable poncho cements its reputation. Its made of 100% polypropylene material that keeps warmth in and deflects cold and wind .
It’s completely waterproof, so the rain will merely slide down the outside of the poncho. It’s easy to pack and compact to carry, making it one of the best travel ponchos available. It also comes in an eco-friendly bag, increasing the portability factor.
Side snaps and an adjustable hoodie with cord locks make this poncho customizable, and it provides enough space for even large backpacks.
- Compact and lightweight
- Only comes in a few colors
SaphiRose Hooded Rain Poncho Waterproof Raincoat
With a length that extends below the knees and an adjustable hood, the SaphiRose hooded rain poncho is one of the best picks for your travels. As a 3-in-1 poncho that converts into a camping tarp and a groundsheet, this poncho is as versatile as it gets.
The primary use of a travel poncho is to protect you from bad weather, and this one does it splendidly. When it comes to usability, you will love the adjustable hood and button sleeves, and that’s just the start. This poncho has 1 large zipper pocket in the front suitable for all kinds of necessities.
It also has a visor beak for rain protection, brass buckles on the corners, and strong backing with heat-sealed seams. It can be easily dried and packed in its carrying bag for later use.
- Universal travel poncho solution
- The sleeve length doesn’t differ much between various poncho sizes
Lingito 20 Pack of Family Rain Ponchos
If you are looking for a travel poncho pack suitable for the entire family, Lingito has an answer for you. As a 20- pack of family rain ponchos in different sizes and colors , this option is perfect for men, women, and children.
All the ponchos are intended for single-use, which might seem wasteful, but you should consider all the benefits that come with it. First, you don’t have to look for individual ponchos for the entire family, as this pack has them all included.
Also, these are mostly emergency ponchos for bad weather and are easily packed in a bag and disposed of after use. Being 50 inches wide, the size should suffice for every family member looking for cover from rain and wind.
- A complete poncho set for the entire family
- Suitable for 1-time use only
Hagon PRO Disposable Rain Ponchos
If a 5-pack of ponchos suffices for your family’s travel needs, consider this option with different-colored ponchos . The only downside might be the plastic material, but it’s due to the fact that these ponchos are suitable for single usage only.
On the other hand, there are many benefits to this pack – from the lightweight and compact package to the breathable fit. It also includes a reinforced hood area to prevent any rain or drips from getting in.
The drawstring hood might be the best part of this poncho, as it doesn’t have any additional pockets or other usability features.
- Great for 1-time, bad-weather protection
- Plastic material only
ANTVEE Adult EVA Poncho 2 Pack
Those looking for a compact, lightweight travel poncho might consider settling on the ANTVEE Eva Poncho. It’s a one-size-fits-most design and features a stringed hood that can be easily adjusted .
The main idea is to provide you with a poncho that’s easily packable within seconds and simple to use. It has side snap closures and welded seams, and it reaches the knees for good body coverage. It’s a completely waterproof solution that will cover you and your backpack easily.
Because of the lightweight design, this poncho is a bit thin, so you may need to take additional care not to rip the fabric.
- Comes as a 2-pack in a variety of colors
- Water can seep through the buttoned sides in heavy rainfall
Totes Women’s Reversible Rain Poncho
The Totes women’s reversible rain poncho is a great choice for women and just might be the travel poncho you’ve been looking for. This poncho can be folded into its front storage pocket and packed in a bag. However, its main advantage isn’t the foldable design or light weight, but the reversible fabric .
It’s constructed to be fully water-resistant with polyester mesh lining. The durability of this poncho also makes it a great option if you’re a frequent traveler. A drawstring hood protects your hair and face from rain, and the material deflects the wind efficiently.
The fact that you can fold and unfold the entire jacket in a matter of seconds makes it perfect for traveling when you are on the move.
- Easily folded into the storage pocket
- Only water-resistant, not waterproof
Furry Smile Disposable Rain Ponchos for Children
Those looking for travel gear for children that is sufficient for harsh weather conditions ought to try Furry Smile’s disposable poncho pack for children. It comes with a set of 4 ponchos with unique designs that are fitted for kids.
They are comfortable, lightweight, and durable , so you can use them for repeated trips if you’re carefully storing them. The ponchos come with a carrying bag, and you can easily place all 4 of them in a backpack for travel. They are 100% waterproof, and kids will love them thanks to their charming designs.
This set combines the best of both worlds for kids – a fun design with complete rain and cold protection.
- Fully waterproof poncho pack for kids
- It could come in more colors since it’s designed for kids
Cosowe Rain Ponchos Disposable for Adults and Kids
Made of non-toxic PE material that properly protects the wearer from rain and cold weather, the Cosowe rain poncho is a disposable yet durable choice that ought to be considered. This product comes as a pa ck of 5 ponchos, each with a drawstring hood, elastic sleeves, and most importantly, thin yet elastic and rip-free material .
They can endure the harshest of weather conditions and are perfect emergency options if you don’t care for color or style. Not to say that these ponchos look unappealing, but their primary offering is functionality.
With arms outstretched, the width reaches almost 50 inches, which should suffice for both adults and children. Moreover, the clear premium waterproof material is thin yet durable, so it makes a perfect disposable option for travel.
- Elastic yet durable material
- Comes in a single poncho size
Ultimately, the travel poncho you choose will depend on your personal preference. Our list contains a variety of travel ponchos spanning single-use and quality durable travel ponchos.
If you are traveling as a family, you can make use of a family pack of disposable emergency ponchos that can fit any backpack and are easily slipped on in case of rain or bad weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best material for a travel poncho.
Ponchos made from polyester and nylon are good durable options for travel. However, you can also rely on other materials — as long as they are not plastic — if you plan on using them long-term. Plastic ponchos serve their purpose but are for single usage only.
Is a poncho better than a rain jacket?
Most of the time, a poncho is a better option for travel than a rain jacket because it covers most of your body as well as your backpack. By contrast, rain jackets cover only you and usually end around the hips, so you can get much better protection from bad weather by using a poncho.
What is the perfect poncho width for travel?
When you stretch out your arms, the poncho should be at least 48 inches in width. With this width, you can have both maximum comfort when moving your arms and complete protection against the rain.
Are waterproof ponchos better than water-resistant ones?
It’s always better to go for the completely waterproof option just in case, but single-use water-resistant ponchos also provide good protection.
Was this page helpful?
About Amar Hussain
Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.
INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™
Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...
Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.
We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.
Related Posts
UP's Bonus Valuation
This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.
Norwegian Rain
Extreme function.
Eco-consciousness., watch the full movie.
“our rain” – directed by @nanaasihene
New arrivals
“the label has redefined functional fashion”
Icon Magazine
How creating the best raincoat in the world became our mission.
Life in bergen – the rainiest city of europe..
Founder and creative director Alexander Helle is born and raised in Bergen, a city on the west coast of Norway known for its heavy rain, underground music scene and the encapsulating 7 mountains that bring wild nature all the way into the city streets.
Alexander Torgnes Helle
Founder & creative director, head designer & chief strategist.
It was however a sojourn in Milan that initiated the inspirational idea of merging tradition, technology and style. With dry living as motivation, he went home to join forces with local expertise. When Ghanaian born T-Michael came onboard as co-owner, head designer and chief strategist the project materialized. Michael’s 24 years of tailoring experience as owner and creative director of his eponymous label T-MICHAEL, balanced Alex’s degree in Master of Business and brought depth to ideas. A versatile duo full of contrasts was born.
Drop by drop, the rain project has evolved into an award-winning label.
“A sartorial take on 100% waterproof outerwear inspired by Japanese sensibility & life in the rainiest city of Europe – Bergen.”
Flagship Stores
A different retail experience, formal & classic.
“I cannot fault this parka – it has everything!”
Anna Murphy, Fashion Editor
Signature Pieces
Norwegian rain on you, @norwegianrain, join the norwegian rain community.
CREDITS Prod. Company: @filmbybravado – Director / Writer: @nanaasihene Producer: @aphualarbi – DOP: @directorhafiz Production assistant: @twostepzcdb – Models: @sakinamahama_i and Eric Lamptey VO: @nii_pap – Edit / Colour: @nanaasihene
Select your location to see the correct price, delivery time and shipping fee.
Be first in line
The Best Kids Rain Jackets, Vetted by Parents
Rain gear is the new snow gear.
PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .
When it rains, it pours—and TBH, in a lot of places it rained more than it snowed this past year. I’m basing this on my own experience: For example, the NYC morning last fall when the streets were flooded, the subways weren’t running, but schools were open, which led my 5-year-old and me to brave the weather together. What helps? Proper waterproof rain gear , like choosing one of the best rain jackets for kids.
The great news? Rain coat options abound for boys, girls, kids and toddlers: We love this fisherman’s style from Boden , as well as best-in-class Scandi brand, Polarn O. Pyret . You can also choose from a variety of styles. Maybe your kid wants something with a bit of length like this Primary jacket or they prefer something that is more throw-on-and-go (Columbia’s Glennaker style , perhaps). We polled editors, parents and even a children’s outdoor gear professional to bring you the best raincoats for kids in 2024.
Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.
The Best Kids Rain Jackets at a Glance
Best Everyday Raincoat
Reima lampi waterproof rain jacket.
Best Breathability
Ll. bean trail model colorblock rain jacket.
Best Lightweight Raincoat
Columbia glennaker rain jacket.
Best for Baby
Hatley color changing hooded waterproof raincoat.
Best for Toddlers
Patagonia torrentshell 3l rain jacket, how we chose the best kids rain jackets.
To land on the best kids rain jackets, we first polled actual parents (PureWow editors included!) to get their selects, all of which they’ve tested first-hand. Then, we scoured online reviews of those recommendations to ensure that there was a chorus of positive opinions and feedback. Finally, we chatted with an expert—Alyssa Marsh, COO of the Outdoor School Shop —to get her advice on what features to seek when choosing a proper rain jacket. (Things like durability and fit, which you can read more about below.)
1. Reima Lampi Waterproof Rain Jacket
What we like.
- lasts multiple seasons
- bright colors
- 10,000 mm water column
What We Don’t Like
- not as warm
Our family editors rave about the versatility (and durability) of this particular style, which is really a testament to the quality of the entire Reima brand. The Lampi coat is one of their staples thanks to its 10,000mm water column (see detailed explanation below, but this is a universal measurement that determines how long it will take for a coat to soak through) and a design that prioritizes active, outdoor play (details like the elastic cuff, the detachable hood and reflective design enhance the safety while in use). It’s worth noting that this coat also comes with welded seams, which make it all more waterproof. To wash, simply turn inside out and throw in the machine. (When we tested, we tried this and ours came out looking brand-new.)
- Size Range: 12/24 months to 12 years
- Material: 100 percent recycled polyester; polyurethane coating
- Care: Machine-washable
2. L.L. Bean Trail Model Colorblock Rain Jacket
- great for active use like hiking
- 360 reflectivity
- comes with three zippered pockets
- zipper can snag
Designed for mild temperatures (think transitional weather), this coat is beloved by parents—and kids!—for its breathability during active use, but also its cool colorblock style (pink and blue is so unexpected for rain gear, don’t you think?). This coat also features fully taped seams (essential for true waterproofing), a storm flap and three zippered pockets, a dream for kids that love to collect treasures while out and about. The latest design added a new double laminate interior to help enhance dryness and—our favorite detail—the whole coat folds down to the size of one of its own pockets. (More efficient than carrying a collapsible umbrella!)
- Size Range: S to L (little kid); S to XL (kids)
- Material: 100 percent recycled nylon shell
3. Columbia Glennaker Rain Jacket
- breathable material
- throw-on-and-go use case
- lightweight material
When it comes to durability, waterproofing and its throw-on-and-go style, our parent testers report that the Glennaker rain jacket rises to the top of their list time and time again. It’s lightweight, which means layering is required (see Marsh’s tips in our FAQ section below), but that’s what kids tend to love about it—it’s not a coat that weighs them down, but best used on days when a lighter rain is expected. The nylon material helps to block moisture out while staying breathable. A hood, reflective detailing and the zipper closure are more details that make this style a favorite.
- Size Range: XXS to XL
- Material: 100 percent nylon (shell); 100 percent polyester (lining)
4. Hatley Color Changing Hooded Waterproof Raincoat
What we like.
- playful pattern
- color-changing material
- soft terry lining
- hood doesn’t detach
Let’s get real for a second: In the baby stage, rain gear is about weather protection, but it’s also about looking cute as a button. Enter this clever coat from Hatley, which not only has a playful shark pattern, the material itself changes color when it gets wet. (The sharks become white or blue.) The terrycloth lining is also soft and comfortable and there’s a hood for added rain protection and two front-facing cargo pockets.
- Size Range: 9/12 to 18/24 months
- Material: 100 percent polyester; 100 percent polyurethane coating
5. Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket
What we love.
- durable and breathable
- elastic sleeves
- comfortable
What We Don’t Love
- limited colors
It’s the performance fabric that really makes this rain jacket sing. Parents can expect a coat that’s both waterproof and breathable and one that comes with ample coverage for added weather protection, too. For example, there’s a wind flap, three panel hood and an elastic gusset—which strengthens the fit—all included in the design. For parents who raved about it, it’s the details that make this coat a stand-out and a style they buy on repeat. One remarked about the sleeves in particular—how the internal cuffs stay firmly in place while keeping their kid’s hands warm. Always a win!
- Size Range: 2T to 5T
- Material: 100 percent recycled nylon
Best Sustainable Raincoat
6. polarn o. pyret classic waterproof eco shell jacket.
- flexible sizing
- breathable and windproof
- high water column rating
- cost, but it’s an investment
Polarn O. Pyret
When polling parents about their go-to pick for a kids’ rain coat that holds up, Scandi brand Polarn O. Pyret came up again and again. We put their Shell jacket (an environmentally-friendly pivot from traditional PU rainwear) to the test and were blown away by the results. Features worth noting: This coat is both wind- and waterproof with fully taped seams, but it also has a 12,000mm water column meaning that it will take high pressure rainfall for multiple minutes to soak through. The color palette, the detachable hood, the chin guard inside the zipper that is extra gentle (and prevents chafing) on the chin and cheeks—there are so many thoughtful details to love. But back to the sustainability: Polarn O. Pyret’s mantra is “three children for each garment,” which speaks to the quality and durability of its products. The coat is also made from recycled materials and, for water repellence, uses an eco-friendly technology free from PFCs (eg: synthetical chemicals).
- Size Range: 1/1.5 to 9/10
- Material: 100 percent recycled polyamide (outer fabric); 100 percent recycled polyester (lining and inner lining)
Best Budget Raincoat
7. primary raincoat.
- lightweight
- color selection
- sleeves run a bit long
Several parents mentioned Primary as their go-to for a rain jacket that looks expensive, but clocks in at under $50. It also gets the job done with features like a 10,000 mm water column, the high quality and traditional (some describe it lovingly as “old-fashioned”) fit. Note: This is a style that is designed to be layered, so don’t expect a ton of warmth. Still, it’s a win for in-between days and, with a sweater underneath, your kid will be dressed for success.
- Size Range: 1 to 10/12
- Material: 100 percent recycled polyester
- Care: Spot clean
Most Likely to Become a Hand-me-Down
8. boden waterproof fisherman’s jacket.
- soft interior lining
- great for transitional weather
- cute design
- less warm than other raincoats
The fleece lining, the fisherman’s silhouette, the color range—kids (and parents) adore Boden’s offerings when it comes to rainwear. Not only is it waterproof, but it’s comfy and soft inside and great for active play and repeated use. (After testing, the machine washable style comes out looking brand-new—even when a good amount of dirt is involved.) Other details we love: The ribbed cuffs, which help keep the sleeves secure, as well as the angled pockets. It’s a classic fit and, better yet, one with hand-me-down potential.
- Size Range: 12/18 months to 11/12 years
- Material: 100 percent polyester (main); 100 percent cotton (body and hood lining); 100 percent polyester (sleeve lining)
Cutest Designs
9. muddy puddles ecolight recycled jacket.
- great for spring/summer
Muddy Puddles
Alyssa Marsh, chief operating officer of Outdoor School Shop raves about this UK-based brand (that ships stateside), and parents agree: The bright designs and playful patterns are totally stand-out on a rainy day. It’s also equipped with waterproof, windproof and breathable technology, making it ideal for active use and all day play. But our favorite part is the adorable designs: Think an avocet bird print on a teal backdrop, a lightning bolt pattern against a bold red and a bright rainbow motif .
- Material: 100 percent recycled polyester (outer); 50 percent cotton/50 percent polyester (lining)
Warmest Rain Coat
10. zara faux shearling rubberized rain coat.
- fleece lined interior
- snap pocket closure
- reflective stripe on the back
Available in two different colors—black and pink —this rain jacket delivers on style and warmth, thanks to its minimalist design and fleece lined interior. It’s worth noting that the sizing does run large, according to parent reviewers, but that only means there’s hand-me-down potential and the chance at multiple seasons of use. The rubberized exterior also means that this jacket easily repels water. It can also be closed up with a front zipper, which is hidden behind those snaps. Finally, we love the reflective stripe on the back to enhance safety for kids who love to stay outside as long as they can.
- Size Range: 9/12 months to 5/6 years
- Material: 100 percent polyester/recycled polyester (outer shell, lining and filling); 100 percent polyeurethane (coating)
What to Consider When Shopping for a Kids Rain Jacket
• The Use Case. According to Marsh , the first question to think about when shopping for a rain jacket for kids is how will you use it. For example, if you live in the Pacific Northwest, you’re going to need a different level of protection than if you live in the South. “Parents in the PNW would want something super waterproof, so looking for a higher water column rating makes sense,” Marsh explains. “In the South, a parent would want more breathability together with waterproofing, and in the North, a parent would likely choose a fleece-lined rain coat for added insulation.”
• Durability. “Do you have a kid that loves to climb trees, explore the forest floor or do you have a kid that likes to stay safely on the trail? The parents who have more active play type children will want to seek out high durability versus the parents of children who are a little less risky with their play,” Marsh explains.
• Material. When it comes to rain jackets for kids, there are two main types of materials you’ll see: PU rainwear and Shell rainwear. PU rainwear is the slick material you think of when you see a typical raincoat—like what a fisherman might wear. “It’s super waterproof and wonderful for spending the entire day out in the rain or playing in puddles and mud, but it’s not breathable, so can cause an active child to feel hot and sweaty,” says Marsh. On the flip side, Shell rainwear is the most durable. It’s made using a layered technology that allows it to be waterproof, windproof and breathable. “Shell rainwear also tends to be the most versatile—it can be worn on a non-rainy day, too, to protect against other elements like wind.”
• Sustainability. Don’t underestimate the environmental (and financial) benefit of “extend a size” functionality that allows you to get an extra year of wear. “Cost per wear is a huge metric to consider when shopping for a rain jacket for your kid, especially when a higher ticket item tends to last longer and perform better,” Marsh says. “If it can be passed down to numerous kids or sold on the secondhand market, it provides more value to you, your child and the environment—something to keep in mind when shopping.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. how do i pick the best size rain jacket for my child, here’s a brilliant tip from marsh: if available when shopping for a rain jacket, use the eu sizing versus the us. “when you use the eu sizing provided on many brands, you actually measure the height of your child versus their age as a guide,” marsh says. of course, kids do not all grow the same, so there is less guesswork required. (to do this, you’ll need to measure their height, then convert inches to centimeters. that cm height is their size.) additionally, it’s worth noting that many european/scandinavian brands run large, so if you are choosing based on your kid’s age when shopping, buying their size can be like buying the size up., 2. what’s the best way to properly layer your kid, marsh swears by the 1-2-3 layering method for helping kids face the elements outdoors. her advice think about your jacket as your barrier from weather—it doesn’t have to be the warmest as long as it’s fully wind and waterproof. then layer underneath. “start with a base layer in merino wool or a technical fabric, depending on how cold it is outside, then add a second layer in fleece, wool (or, again, a technical fabric) to help add additional warmth,” she says. final step: the outer layer, which is designed to keep the elements at bay, but isn’t necessarily the only item that should keep you warm., 3. what does the water column tell me about waterproofing, many rain coats share a number with an “mm” rating after it. this is the water column attached to a specific coat—in other words, it’s a measurement that explains, if water pressure were applied, this is how long it would take for a coat to soak through. “the higher the water column rating, the less likely it will soak through,” marsh says. “scandi brands are generally considered best in class for this reason.” fyi, 10,000mm and above is usually a good standard to look for. (keep in mind, you still need features like storm flaps and hoods to provide an extra shield from getting wet.).
25 Fun Things To Do on a Rainy Day in NYC
Royal family expert, a cappella alum, mom
More stories you'll love.
- Bahasa Indonesia
- Slovenščina
- Science & Tech
- Russian Kitchen
5 ways to enjoy autumn in Moscow
Cosy spots in Moscow
1. Get warm with a drink
Tea and coffee, as well as much stronger beverages, can be found in the capital 24 hours a day. To enjoy a cuppa, and the warm hues of a cosy interior, go to the Delyus Dushoy c afe on Pyatnitskaya Street. It’s become a favorite cafe among Muscovites thanks to its minimalist interior and pale pink walls that are an ideal background for a selfie. But the place should really be appreciated for its classic coffee and the fact no animal milk is used in the drinks - only almond milk. The cafe is within walking distance of the Kremlin and the new Zaryadye Park.
To enjoy a cuppa, and the warm hues of a cosy interior, go to the Delyus Dushoy cafe on Pyatnitskaya Street
Fancy a lemon and lavender or lilac Raf coffee? The Double B coffee chain is the place for you. A Raf is made by whipping espresso with milk and cream to make a thick yet delicate coffee - it’s named after the first customer to order it: Rafael. These types of cafes might not offer the best food, but the caffeine hits are usually top-notch.
If you’re in need of something a little punchier check out 19 Bar & Atmosphere - here the tangy gin and coriander infusion is guaranteed to get the blood pumping. At 45°/60° the sea-buckthorn rum and pineapple samogon (moonshine) infusions are highly recommended, and at the famous White Rabbit restaurant, which offers a panoramic view of Moscow and is among the world's top 50 eateries, order propolis vodka and Parmesan whisky - you won’t be disappointed.
If you fancy a milder and more conventional drink like mulled wine, you can drop in to Veranda 32.05 , which is in Hermitage Gardens. But at this time of year it’s also easy to find hot mulled wine with cinnamon and cloves in the numerous kiosks along Krymskaya Embankment .
2. See Moscow without getting wet
Zaryadye, the new park in the very center of the capital, offers one of the best views of the Kremlin. Visitors can stand on a viewing platform - in the form of a covered amphitheater on a hill with a special microclimate - so even if it’s freezing cold outside you’ll still be warm.
Zaryadye, the new cool park in the very center of the capital
The park has an interactive media center with a 4D cinema and seats suspended in the air where you will be able to witness the Battle of Borodino and the 1812 Fire of Moscow.
An interactive museum of the capital's skyscrapers has opened at an altitude of 215 meters in the Moscow City complex. It tells the story of high-rise buildings - from the Bell Tower of Ivan the Terrible to the towers of Moscow City - and has a bar, the Vysotka, which boasts fantastic views from the 56th floor and a "parallel reality" - an installation showing how Moscow would look if it had horizontal skyscrapers.
3. Museums or the cinema
Look out for new (and old) art exhibitions at the Pushkin Museum , which regularly brings the gems of the world’s art scene to the Russian capital. This autumn you can see one of the living classics of contemporary Chinese art, Cai Guo-Qiang (until Nov. 12), or the outstanding representatives of the Vienna Secession movement, Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele.
Opening of "Gustav Klimt. Egon Schiele. Drawings from the Albertina Museum (Vienna)
Russia's great portrait and landscape painters are exhibited in the main building of the Tretyakov Gallery in Lavrushinsky Lane, and there are Russian avant-garde artists and contemporary art on show at the New Tretyakov Gallery on Krymsky Val. A few hundred meters from there, in Gorky Park, there’s another museum of contemporary art - Garage - where one could easily spend half a day and not even notice the bad weather outside - in the museum lobby there’s a cafe which serves decent food.
And one can see art house movies, retrospectives of world-renowned film directors, and the most keenly anticipated blockbusters in their original languages with subtitles at Pioner Cinema on Kutuzovsky Avenue.
4. Try Russian cuisine
Kamchatka crab, carp in sour cream, jellied pigs’ ears à la mode with mushroom caviar, delicate assorted meat dumplings - look for these gastronomic delicacies in Moscow’s restaurants. To experience the atmosphere of a grand Russian house, tourists and locals go to Cafe Pushkin and Grand-Cafe Dr.Zhivago . An old mansion, book shelves with antiquarian books, a room with a fireplace - in a word, everything here is geared towards imitating the abode of a Russian nobleman.
To experience the atmosphere of a grand Russian house in Dr.Zhivago
"Russian cuisine in a modern interpretation" is the motto of Restoratsiya Odoyevsky where traditional Russian dishes acquire a new meaning. Take, for example, their rabbit liver pate with parsnip and sea-buckthorn marmalade, or vareniki - a traditional Russian dish which in this restaurant is made from blackcurrant dough with muksun (whitefish) and nelma (Siberian white salmon) with a citrus sauce.
Kukhmisterskaya is part of the same culinary concept as Restoratsiya Odoyevsky but here, on the contrary, people come to experience original traditions. Bread is baked in the ancient Russian way - using sourdough and a hearth oven - and meat is slow cooked for hours (if not days) - also in a Russian oven. This delicious fodder will warm your cockles.
5. Find clothes made by Russian designers
A shop selling clothes made by Russian designers has opened at the GUM department store on Red Square. The Sektsiya (“Section”) retail outlet occupies two floors and offers high-end Russian labels like Victoria Andreyanova, fashion underground brands like Outlaw Moscow, the famous ZDDZ and Sorry I'm Not labels, and the minimalist Sergey Soroka collection - in total, about 35 labels with a wide range of prices. Soon an exclusive Gosha Rubchinskiy collection will join them. Sektsiya also sells Heart of Moscow souvenirs. GUM itself, the country's main department store, has lots of cafes and even its own cinema. Perfect for a rainy day.
If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.
to our newsletter!
Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox
- 8 Instagram accounts about Moscow that you need to follow
- Moscow after dusk: 10 places to drink, dance, and groove
- When the sun sets in Moscow during the last days of summer - a photo essay by Russia Beyond
- What did Russia's most modern park look like before selfie addicts overran it?
- What’s the best way to see Russia: By car, train or plane?
This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.
- #Luxury travel
- #Unusual Moscow
- #Jewish Heritage
- #Russian traditions
Top 10 places for a day trip from Moscow
- #Russian History
- #Special Interest
- #Suburbs of Moscow
Moscow offers tourists many great sights to see, but if you ask locals, they will tell you that Moscow is not all there is to Russia, so it’s worth getting away sometimes. Without exploring further, you miss something of the Russian unique character. If you wonder what to visit near Moscow, we recommend you 10 places where a tourist can go for a refreshing recreation, new impressions, and acquaintance with Russian history and culture.
01 Sergiyev Posad
Sergiyev Posad is one of the most beautiful towns located around Moscow. It’s not only famous for its monastery, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, but also for the fact that it’s the only town in the Moscow Region that is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities. Its cities and towns influenced the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church. But the main thing which one should visit Sergiyev Posad is the Lavra for sure. You may spend there all day, walking around and enjoying the sense of its power and strength. You absolutely have to buy some honey cakes as souvenirs for friends and feed Lavra’s pigeons when entering the monastery. Besides, you may visit Sergiyev Posad State History and Art Museum-Reserve, which has quite an impressive collection, take a look at the displays in the National Museum of Toys, and taste truly Russian food in local cafes and restaurants.
You can reach Sergiyev Posad by suburban electric train, by bus, or by car. The electric train departs from the Yaroslavsky rain terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts for an hour and a half. You may take a bus near the ‘VDNKh’ metro station, and you’ll be in Sergiyev Posad in an hour and a half at least and in two hours at most. Your car will take you there in an hour and a half at most, too. You should drive the Yaroslavskoye highway.
If you want to look at a city that combines hi-tech and historical past, you should absolutely visit Kolomna. It is one of the most famous ancient cities in Russia, a beautiful port on the Oka River. Kolomna has its own Kremlin, which is made of red brick, like the Moscow Kremlin. Inside it, you may find many monasteries and churches, including the one in which Dmitry of the Don, Prince of Moscow, and Grand Prince of Vladimir, had his wedding to the Grand Duchess of Muscovy Eudoxia of Moscow. There is still a reserved residential area which is called Posad, right in the Kremlin territory. The buildings date back to merchants’ times. There are some interesting churches, too. In 2006, the Kolomna Speed Skating Center, known as the Kometa Ice Rink, was opened. Its futuristic look contrast the picturesque views of the ancient Kolomna Kremlin and its beautiful churches.
The best way to reach Kolomna is an electric train that departs from the Kazansky rail terminal. The trip lasts for two and a half, or one hour and forty minutes by the Ryazansky express. You can also choose a bus from the Vykhino metro station (1.4 to 4 hrs due to traffic jams) or a car.
03 Shakhmatovo
Shakhmatovo was a manor of the well-known Russian lyrical poet Alexander Blok. His grandfather Andrey Nikolaevich Beketov bought it, and young Blok used to spend it there every summer. Later, he moved there with his wife Lyubov Mendeleeva, who was the daughter of the famous chemist Dmitri Mendeleev. Blok’s grandfather decided to buy Shakhmatovo because of its picturesque views. They are really very nice, and the better time to visit this place is spring and summer. According to his own project, Blok’s mansion is a wooden house built by the poet but burnt by peasants in 1921. It was rebuilt in 2001, and since that time, it often holds big events and excursions. There is also a stable in Shakhmatovo territory, and everyone interested may ride a horse, or rent a bicycle in the summertime, or ski in wintertime.
Shakhmatovo can be reached by car because other options combine train departs from the Leningradsky rail terminal, then changes to bus till the Tarakanovo manor, then goes by foot, or bus from the Vodny stadion metro station, and then also by foot. Travel time is 1.4 hrs.
04 Zakharovo
It is a manor located in the Odintsovo District of the Moscow Region, where everybody interested may learn more about the greatest Russian poet Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin. In 1804, Zakharova was bought by his grandmother Mariya Alexeevna Gannibal, and young Pushkin was brought here every summer from 1805 through to 1810. He recalled Zakharovo in his poems as well. Now, the house which Pushkin visited as a child doesn’t exist anymore, but it was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century on the former basis. Now it is a quiet and nice place with a museum dedicated to the famous poet's childhood, where one may spend a day enjoying the spirit of the time when young Pushkin ran across manor’s paths. From that time, linden park, approach alleys, and pond were saved. Not very far away from Zakharovo, another place connected to Pushkin’s name is located. It’s called Bolshiye Vyazyomy, and there the young Pushkin’s brother Nikolenka was buried after his death at the age of six.
The best way to go there is by train, which departs from the Belorussky rail terminal and goes to Zvenigorod. You should leave at the Zakharovo station. Travel time is an hour and a half.
05 Borodino
Borodino is truly a sacred place for all those who honor the great Russian past. The Borodino Battlefield held the most important fighting during the Patriotic War of 1812. This place was made a museum area in 1839, just after 27 years after the battle. More than two thousand memorable things are stored in the museum, including some monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to the 19th and 20th centuries, and fortification facilities. Besides, there is also an exhibition dedicated to the famous novel ‘War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, who visited Borodino in person and described this battle in his book. Every year, reconstruction events occur in Borodino, which is considered the best for visiting. But if you want to feel the spirit of the battle past, it’s better to visit it in more quiet time.
To go there, you should take a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, leave in Mozhaysk, and then change to the bus. The whole travel time is about 2 hrs.
06 Melikhovo
Melikhovo is considered one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, one of the brightest Russian writers and playwrights. Chekhov had been living in Melikhovo from March 1892 until August 1899 with his parents and close relatives. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “Uncle Vanya” and “The Seagull.” He sold this manor before going to the Crimea, and it became vague after the revolution. But in 1939, it was decided to establish a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew initiated the process, and the museum opened its doors in 1941. Now Melikhovo shows the path of Chekhov not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. Some paintings of famous artists such as Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends, are being stored. It’s a nice place to visit to learn more about Chekov’s life and work.
The best way to reach Melikhovo is by bus, which departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station, and goes to Protvino, Obolensk, or Serpukhov, or by the direct 365 bus. Also, you may choose an electric train from the Kursky rail terminal. Travel time is 1,5 hrs.
07 Abramtsevo
This is another manor connected to the lives of important Russian people — not only writers but also artists. Abramtsevo, located close to Sergiev Posad, was a property of Sergey Aksakov, a writer and a Slavophiles, and later of Savva Mamontov, a well-known patron of the arts. Abramtsevo used to be visited by writers Ivan Turgenev and Nikolay Gogol, poet Fyodor Tyutchev, and such artists as Isaac Levitan, Vasily Polenov, and Mikhail Vrubel, and by the great Russian singer Fyodor Shalyapin as well. The exhibition in the museum is dedicated to famous Abramtsevo owners and guests. It was made a museum in 1917, and its first curator was Alexandra Mamontova, Savva Mamontov’s daughter. The main sightseeing view is a wooden building made in the 18th century and saved in Savva Mamontov's form in the 19th century. There are also some bright buildings such as hut pavilion or hut bath-house. You have to remember that the main manor house may be visited only with an excursion group on the weekend.
Electric train to Abramtsevo departs from the Yaroslavsky rail terminal and goes to Sergiyev Posad or Aleksandrov. You may reach Abramtsevo by bus as well. Travel time is an hour and a half.
08 Yasnaya Polyana
Yasnaya Polyana is known as a place of residence of the famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. He was born there, wrote his novels ‘War and Peace’ and ‘Anna Karenina,’ died and is buried. He’d been living in this manor for fifty years. Yasnaya Polyana is located in the Tula Region, 200 km from Moscow to the south. This manor consists of many interesting and significant objects. For example, the interior of the main house where Tolstoy lived is being kept like it was in 1910 — it was the last year for the writer. All things in the house are considered to be personal belongings of Tolstoy and his family. Besides the main house, the Yasnaya Polyana ensemble includes the so-called Volkonsky house — the house of Tolstoy’s grandfather, the Kuzminskiye wing, which is a part of the oldest house where Tolstoy was born, now non-existent, the birch alley made by Sofya Andreevna, Leo Tolstoy’s wife, stable, ponds, and favorite Tolstoy’s bench. Leo Tolstoy’s tomb is located close to the ravine's edge — it’s where he wanted to be buried.
The whole travel time to Yasnaya Polyana is about 4 hrs as long as it’s located near Tula. It can be reached by train, or by car. First, you should go to Tula by train from the Kursky rail terminal or by bus from the Tsaritsyno, Domodedovskaya, Prazhskaya, or Ulitsa Akademika Yangelya metro stations, and then change to bus, or by trolley bus for Yasnaya Polyana.
09 Polotnyany Zavod
This place which title can be translated into Russian as ‘linen factory,’ is known for its connection to the Goncharov family, from which Natalia Goncharova, Alexander Pushkin’s wife, originated. The real linen factory was built on the bank of the Sukhodrev River in the Kaluga Region in 1718 by Peter the Great order. Goncharov, Natalia’s great grandfather, was one of the companions who participated in the factory’s development. Every companion built his own manor close to the factory’s building, and even for those times, it was quite an uncommon situation. Polotnyany Zavod was visited by the empress Catherine the Great, the Field Marshal Mikhail Kutuzov, and Nikolay Vasilievich Gogol. In 1999, when everybody celebrated the bicentennial of Alexander Pushkin, Polotnyany Zavod was made a museum, and now it welcomes many guests who come to see dramatized excursions and to learn more about Pushkin times. The poet himself visited this place two times, in 1830 and 1834. Polotnyany Zavod has the most picturesque panoramic view in the Kaluga Region.
To go to Polotnyany Zavod, you should take a bus from the bus station near the Tyoply Stan metro station, and go to Kondorovo. It takes a little more than three hours.
Tarus is just another little town in Kaluga Region, which is considered to be typical Russian. It’s located on the left bank of the Oka River and has really magnificent views. It feels like time stands still there. Tarusa managed to preserve the best from the past, and even now, it consists mostly of one-storeyed houses made of wood or stone. They say it’s because Tarusa residents declined railroad construction. This town became popular among Russian intellectuals at the beginning of the 20th century when famous artist Vasily Polenov discovered it and told about Tarusa to anyone in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Tarusa is known to be a hometown for Russian writer Marina Tsvetaeva, whose family spent summertime there. Tsvetaeva museum is a museum every guest of Tarusa should visit for sure. Besides, Konstantin Paustovsky, another famous Russian writer, lived there till his death and was buried in Tarusa. The absolutely must-do in Tarusa is to walk along the embankment of the Oka River.
The best way to reach Tarusa is by direct bus which departs from the bus station near the ‘Tyoply Stan’ metro station. Travel time is about two hours.
- Baikal Lake read
- 25 Reasons to Visit Russian Regions read
- Top places to watch the Northern Lights in Russia read
- Kamchatka peninsula read
- 7 Top Things to Do in Karelia Region read
- The Altai Mountains read
- Siberia read
- Mountain Elbrus read
- 1. Sergiyev Posad
- 3. Shakhmatovo
- 4. Zakharovo
- 5. Borodino
- 6. Melikhovo
- 7. Abramtsevo
- 8. Yasnaya Polyana
- 9. Polotnyany Zavod
We use cookies to improve your experience on our Website, tailor content, and measure advertising. By continuing to use our Website, you accept our Privacy Policy .
Your request has been sent successfully! Our travel expert will contact you shortly.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
IMAGES
COMMENTS
Our top picks: Best everyday rain jacket: Patagonia Torrenshell 3L rain jacket. Best lightweight rain jacket: Coalatree Whistler windbreaker. Best packable rain jacket: Columbia Arcadia II rain ...
Outdoor Research Aspire Super Stretch Jacket. This lightweight, breathable, ultra-comfy jacket keeps water out while allowing for a full range of movement. It doesn't come in any neutral colors ...
Other Men's Rain Jackets We Liked. Eddie Bauer RainPac Anorak: We liked the hoodie-style zip and kangaroo pocket, but it lacks features and quality compared to other jackets we tested.
Super comfortable rain jacket: Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic - Men's / Women's ($230) Jump to Review. Best ultralight rain jacket: Montbell Versalite - Men's / Women's ($260) Jump to Review. Most protective rain jacket for wet conditions: Arc'teryx Beta - Men's / Women's ($400) Jump to Review.
Stylish Women's Raincoat: Helly Hansen. Lightweight Raincoat for Travel: Marmot Essential. Best Brand for Raincoats: Columbia. Packable Rain Jacket: Columbia. Cute Rain Jackets: Joules Golightly. Best Raincoat for Travel: Eddie Bauer. Fashionable Rain Jacket: Fjällräven. Summer Raincoat: Cole Haan Short Rain Jacket.
Our Team's Rain Jacket Picks. Best Overall Rain Jacket: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L. Best Performance Rain Jacket: Arc'teryx Beta LT. Best Budget Rain Jacket: REI Co-op Rainier. Best Stretchy Rain Jacket: Black Diamond StormLine Stretch. Best Ultralight/Emergency Rain Jacket: Outdoor Research Helium Rain.
At A Glance: Our Top 3 Picks for Packable Rain Jackets. BEST travel rain jacket. Marmot Precip Jacket Jump To Review. best lightweight waterproof jacket. Arc'teryx Zeta LT Jump To Review. BEST VALUE FOR MONEY. The North Face Alta Vista Jacket Jump To Review. Cheapest Compact Rain Jacket.
Read More Reviews Or Find More Lightweight Rain Jackets Here . Marmot Minimalist Rain Coat. This is an excellent quality lightweight rain jacket that looks incredibly stylish and comes from a big brand name. The coat is available in 11 different color options and is made of high-quality Gore-Tex material with Paclite Technology.
Best rain jacket overall. Patagonia. Our favorite jacket is available in men's and women's versions. The women's version is available in nine colors and sizes XS to XXL. $179 From $107 at ...
Best Splurge: Kari Traa Women's Voss Jacket at Backcountry.com ($210) Jump to Review. Eddie Bauer Women's RainPac Jacket at Eddiebauer.com (See Price) Jump to Review. Lole Piper Oversized Rain Jacket at Lolelife.com (See Price) Jump to Review. Table of contents. Our Picks.
Best Budget Rain Jacket: REI Co-op XeroDry GT X. Best Value Rain Jacket: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket. Best Premium Rain Jacket: Arc'teryx Beta Jacket. Best Ultralight Rain Jacket: Montbell ...
Stutterheim Stockholm Long Raincoat$190$380 now 50% off. Buy at Stutterheim. Water resistance: Waterproof shell, welded seams | Comfort: Two pockets, underarm ventilation, drawstring hood | Weight ...
Best for Minimalists: Enlightened Equipment Visp. Best for Trail Running: Arc'teryx Norvan SL Hoody. Best for Ultralight Durability: Outdoor Research Helium. Best on a Budget: Frogg Toggs Xtreme Lite. Best Lightweight Rain Jackets: Best Overall: Arc'teryx Zeta SL. Runner Up Overall: REI Drypoint GTX. Best for Durability: Patagonia Rainshadow.
Best Lightweight Rain Jacket. Best All-Purpose: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L. Best Value Gore-Tex: REI Co-op XeroDry GTX. Best Lightweight Gore-Tex: Stio Exploit. Best Protection: Arc'teryx Beta Lightweight. Best with Stretch: Black Diamond Stormline Stretch. Best For $100: REI Co-op Rainier.
The price point of the Torrentshell is far more accessible than many in our review. Anyone who needs an affordable rain jacket should heavily consider this option. The Torrentshell is made with a 3-layer fabric that offers decent waterproofing, but it comes at the cost of the jacket feeling a bit stiff and crinkly.
Best Down: Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket. Jump to features and traveler insights ↓. Best Rain Jacket: Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket. Jump to features and traveler insights ↓. Best Budget ...
After testing 30 rain jackets and raincoats, we found six we liked in a range of sizes, lengths, and styles to keep you dry.
1. Columbia Women's Arcadia II Waterproof Jacket. The cheapest rain jacket in these reviews, the Columbia Arcadia jacket comes in a stack of great colours and is perfect for keeping you dry. Made with Omni-Tech material, this lightweight travel women's raincoat will keep you dry, while also being breathable.
Things To Consider in Travel Ponchos; The 10 Best Rain Ponchos for Travel. 1. Unisex Poncho That Fits a Backpack; 2. Hooded Rain Jacket Poncho; 3. Ultra-thin Breathable Poncho; 4. Multi-functional Option With Large Zipper Pockets; 5. Family Pack of Travel Ponchos; 6. 5-Pack Emergency Ponchos for Family Travel; 7. Ultra-lightweight Compact ...
Join the Norwegian Rain community. Get early access to collection drops, first in line for limited edition pieces, exclusive pre-orders, collabs, event invites and more. All Norwegian Rain raincoats are 100% waterproof without compromising on style and eco. Tailoring and hi-tech meets Japanese sensibility in the rainiest city of Europe - Bergen.
The best kids rain jackets can be hard to find, which is why we turned to the parent testers who know the best and most waterproof styles to shop. ... Best Lightweight Raincoat. Columbia Glennaker Rain Jacket. read more. $50; $35 at Dick's Sporting goods. 4. Best for Baby.
Here's Russia Beyond's guide to where to find cosy spots in Moscow. 1. Get warm with a drink. Tea and coffee, as well as much stronger beverages, can be found in the capital 24 hours a day. To ...
Photo Tips: After work hours are the best time to see people interacting with street performers, perfect for street photography. 8. Church of Nikolaya Chudotvortsa Tverskoy Old Believers' Community. This is a small, relatively unknown cathedral, but what makes this place special for me is its location.
01. Sergiyev Posad. Sergiyev Posad is one of the most beautiful towns located around Moscow. It's not only famous for its monastery, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, but also for the fact that it's the only town in the Moscow Region that is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities. Its cities and towns influenced the formation of the ...