Here we test a Patagonia Torrentshell on the 18-pitch Serpentine Arete on Dragontail Peak between intermittent rain showers. It's just easier to forget about until you need it. The most breathable materials in our review were the Gore-Tex and Gore Paclite Plus. Over the last 10 years, we've tested over 50 of the best rain jackets. On the less expensive end are various products that use coated membrane fabrics, which generally aren't as long-lasting or as breathable as laminated membranes. While one pound might be a benchmark, the average weight in our review is closer to 12-14 ounces, with some models dipping down to an impressive 6-7 ounces an unfathomable weight even just five years ago. No model could match its blend of durability, comfort, and freedom of movement while maintaining top-tier breathability and respectable storm protection. A vent might be well-designed at dumping heat, but it isn't doing its user much good if it lets more rain in than moisture out. What does waterproof really mean? The pricing information on this page is updated hourly but we are not responsible for inaccuracies. This model, The North Face Lightriser (in green) is shown next to some of the other more packable models in our review. Besides examining how effectively each model's ventilation options could dump heat and moisture, we also evaluated how much the vents could actually be left open in a downpour. Face fabric gets overwhelmed and starts to absorb moisture in strong downpours. The only thing that kept it from being more compact is its' mesh pocket didn't do quite as good of a job compressing it. We weighed all the models in our review on a postal scale. This model does have a few downsides, though these downsides are only when directly compared to more expensive models, most of which feature Gore-Tex rather than a more price-oriented, proprietary 2.5-layer coated-membrane option. We tested the breathability of these jackets while hiking, backpacking, climbing, and ski touring. Of the highest value options on the market today, the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L and REI Co-op XeroDry GTX are two of the best. From months of daily drizzle to heavy downpour in the mountains, were acutely aware of the benefits of a quality waterproof and breathable shell. As the weather can change quickly and at times unexpectedly, it's these just-in-case packing scenarios when having a light, compact rain shell is useful, and there is less of a personal debate on whether to throw it in your running vest or the bottom of your pack. I prefer to pair it with a hat for added coverage, but the hood does include a small bill to keep moisture from dripping onto your forehead and face. Basically, we measured if we could use them to dump heat while it was actually raining while hiking, trail running, and backpacking or otherwise enjoying the outdoors in active ways. A well designed hood is one of the most important factors influencing how dry a rain jacket is going to keep you. Baker, North Cascades, WA. This isn't a big deal; however, for those who run hot or are commonly hiking in warmer rain (where this model's breathability will be reduced), something with pit zips might be better. Even the shoulder straps on a pack can damage the Norvans membrane, although we will use a light hydration pack with ours on occasion. For whatever activities you have planned, you'll want a jacket that moves comfortably with you and doesn't inhibit your movement. All trademarks property of their respective owners Remember, most people can even drench a lightweight t-shirt if they're working hard enough, and even the most basic lightweight synthetic t-shirt are significantly more breathable than any waterproof jacket we tested. Spanning the range of a decade, GearLab has tested a variety of products, including hiking gear and backpacking gear reviews. The exterior material (also known as the face fabric) is either nylon or polyester, and this material plays a huge role in the overall durability. When talking about hoods it is worth bringing up the Rab Kinetic 2.0 is of special note because it features an internal elastic band designed to ride directly on top of the wearer's forehead, acting as an internal gasket to the main hood. In addition to wearing each under heavy downpours, snow, and sleet, we've soaked them with garden hoses and showers to assess their performance. For users who run warmer in lighter drizzle or in the time between cloudbursts when you want to continue wearing your jacket for wind protection, or as you suspect the next storm is just minutes away, then venting your jacket can prove incredibly useful. Pitted against each other in rigorous side-by-side and real-world tests, we've identified the pros and cons of each model, what applications they are best suited for, and the best overall. The REI Co-Op XeroDry GTX is a nicely-designed model featuring Gore-Tex at an unbelievable price. While these two fabrics scored the best overall, there were several proprietary air-permeable models and fabrics, like the Rab Kinetic using Proflex and Outdoor Research MicroGravity using Ascentshell, which allows for exceptional breathability and were nearly as breathable. The MicroGravity and the Storm10 are stretchy, the Zeta SL is exceptionally well-articulated, and the Stormbolt is slightly on the baggy side. After extensive testing, we found the REI Stormbolt GTX and the Arc'teryx Zeta SL, both constructed with thinner materials and Gore-Tex and Gore-tex PacLite Plus laminates, proved to breathe the best; for those interested, the Zeta SL offers little in the way of ventilation. We also considered the ease of use of each feature, comparing cinch cords for the hood and how easy to access and adjust they were. 
This shell also uses 2.5-layer Pertex for its waterproofing, but the minimalist build manages to trim weight down to an even 6 ounces while retaining features like hand pockets and an adjustable hood. The jackets we evaluated that do not stuff into one of their pockets can be rolled into their hood as shown here. Obviously, the waterproof material itself is important, but with nearly all manufacturers offering a material that is more than adequate, those jackets with features that kept the rain out and move moisture scored the best. Most of these models breathe quite well. Our review team loves its athletic cut and stretchy material, which provides good freedom of movement. Our rating for packed size considers the compressed size and the ease of using the integrated stuff pocket. Nice features include a microfleece-lined zipper and good fitting cuffs. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. It is built for layering; we don't find you need to downsize unless you are truly between sizes, but you'll want to consider that it does run roomier. Simply put, the Zeta's design is well thought out and provides an unmatched balance of weight, breathability, and an unmatched ability to ward off weather, even during the stormiest of circumstances. Dan Whitmore testing a North Face Venture jacket during an extremely wet trip to Washington's North Cascades National Park. Low pockets are slightly more comfortable for keeping your hands warm while cruising the farmer's market on a drizzly day for less technical applications. Hood design is one of the most important aspects of a waterproof jacket. In the market for the perfect rain jacket? Rain is not going to penetrate the fabrics that any of these jackets are constructed with. Photo: Graham Zimmerman and Ryan O'Connell rappeling while attempting to climb a new route in the Kitchatna's AK. Breathability and ventilation are both significant factors in keeping the wearer dry, minimizing how wet they get from their own sweat. Pit zips let the wearer ventilate the jacket for high energy activities. It boasts raised, pack-friendly handwarmer pockets, a helmet-compatible hood, large pit zips, and a layering-friendly cut, making it ideal for folks who end up heading out regardless of the forecast. This jacket is designed to be worn in terrible conditions and is ever-so-slightly heavier and bulkier; however, for 3-4 extra ounces, it packs some serious storm protection. A ripstop weave doubles up on the thread at intervals, providing a grid of strong fibers to stop tears from growing once a rip has occurred. More price-pointed models use proprietary fabrics, often with coated waterproof membranes that'll do the trick but most frequently won't perform as well as a higher-end option. Still, in nearly all cases, the continuous film of water eliminates all breathability, and the wet-looking area will feel cold and wet, or clammy, from the inside and appear to look as if the liquid is getting through. The Kinetic was no different but was in the upper third of air-permeable models. Some jackets add larger fabric pull tabs to the zipper rather than small pieces of cord to ease operating with cold fingers or gloves. The advantage of the Kinetic and other air-permeable materials is the relatively high and steady level of breathability, regardless of user temperature or external environmental factors. While the number of stretch models continues to grow, the Kinetic is truly the stretchiest shell we have ever seen and offers nearly restriction-free movement. Here, tester Ian Nicholson with The North Face Dryzzle's under-the-helmet hood on a very wet day. Garden hose to the face and wrists? Black Diamonds FineLine is an interesting alternative with its stretchy construction that undercuts it slightly in price at $135. These fabrics also don't perform as well if the environment is hot and humid and the user is working hard and warm (which will likely be the case if the user is exercising in a warm, moist environment). We considered two main factors when awarding scores for this metric. This result of a jacket wetting out significantly reduces breathability in that area that is wet. All perform surprising well given their minimalist builds, but what sets the Helium apart is its price, as those competitors all cost at least $100 more. While most of these models are available in men's and women's versions, we've found that they don't always perform the same. More than hiking shoes or trail runners, they ensure solid footing on loose trails, scree slopes, boulder fields, and ridge scrambles. Shuksan, with Phil Wadlow shown on the summit.
As we mentioned all models we reviewed here allow moisture to pass through them; however, none allow an infinite amount of moisture to pass, and even the most breathable models have their limitations. Lastly, after years of experience, we have come to find that jackets with fewer seams in the shoulders hold up better, especially if you plan to carry a pack regularly. All the fabrics are plenty waterproof to keep you dry out in the rain. GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. In use, weve been very impressed by the toughness of the retooled shell. In addition to staying up to date on the latest and greatest innovations in weather protection, Ian spent over 20 hours meticulously inspecting and considering over 80 contenders before selecting the best products for our review. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. Further, with cutouts under the arms, the Marmot offers superior breathability (again, the Helium has no venting options other than the front zip). Many of todays top hiking pants are made from lightweight nylon Arcteryxs Norvan SL Insulated Hoody is billed as their lightest insulated waterproof layer. The US military has a 25 PSI standard that most companies use as a guideline. This means your jacket keeps breathing even after you've cooled off. You've likely asked yourself something along the lines of "is this piece of gear really the extra money over that piece of gear? Some compress quite small but require wrestling to get them stowed; others fit comfortably into their stuff pocket. Again it isn't that the Kinectic doesn't offer solid weather resistance; there are just a handful of burlier models that perform even better for straight-up hanging out in the rain. Even on multi-day trips with perfect or less than perfect forecasts, packed size should be high on most outdoor enthusiasts' priority list. This jacket uses a 2.5-layer construction with built-in stretch and has a similar trim fit. But given the variety of models available, it Gone are the days when backpacking consisted of strapping on a huge external frame and lumbering through the forest with an aching body. For all but the most serious ounce-counters, we recommend the more well-rounded Helium. Its air-permeable design is also decently breathable. As a result, the OR is the better minimalist pick but the FineLine is arguably more versatile (and $24 cheaper). What you get for that weight is a premium feel from the 2-layer Gore-Tex Paclite Plus construction, a fantastic athletic cut, and excellent waterproofing and durability. Not a standout breather. Finally, the jacket is an impressive wind blocker Ive used it and the prior generation Helium II on cold days while mountain biking to take the sting out on a frigid descent and provide some heat-trapping warmth. All the products we tested will keep you dry in a storm. This unique 4.2-ounce wunderkind is built primarily for trail running with Gores Shakedry technology that omits a face fabric. A number of high-end materials like Gore-Tex Paclite, normal Gore-Tex, or eVent all have a fluctuating level of breathability. A rain jacket needs to stand up to the demands its user places on it. If you're wearing your jacket around town, having room in the pockets for a pair of gloves and a warm hat or a phone and keys can be nice. As one of the lightest and most compact models in our review, it provides adequate storm protection while conveniently stowing away into its reversible chest pocket and packing down to roughly the size of your fist.
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