Want more options? Unless you happen to be hiking in 100% rainfall, you wont be wearing it the whole time. Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. A top choice for a mens rain jacket for hiking if you are looking something that holds up, as Black Diamond themselves put it, in either urban downpours or alpine squalls, we are into this one. 10 Best Backpacking Rain Jackets Under $100. This Outdoor Research womens jacket really differs from the mens version of the same series, because of a variety of size differences, including cuffs and hems, being much larger in the mens Helium II rain jacket. So cheap! Rampant psytrance addict, quaffer of ale, and serial cat fancier. Unfortunately, many rain jackets are intended for skiers and climbers who wear protective helmets. Even the length of the jacket can make a difference, as shorter will almost definitely mean you get wetter when it starts raining. More information. For all of you female adventurers out there, here are some other badass rain jacket options to keep you dry. Other elements to consider are design details such as the waterproofing (or lack or thereof) on the zips, the level of coverage and adjustability of the hood and whether or not it has a chinguard and cap; theres also the hem and cuffs to think about, and whether or not they can be tightened to keep the water out. Failed rock star turned failing writer. document.getElementById( "ak_js_3" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); And for transparencys sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. One thing that often gets overlooked in terms of rain jackets for hiking especially, is the feel and comfort of the material. Finding a specialist rain jacket for hiking for women can be tricky compared to finding a mens jacket, but never fear: REI has you sorted with their Xerodry GTX Jacket. Adjustable Hook and Loop (Velcro) Wrist Closures: These help regulate the body heat at your wrists where the blood flows close to the surface of your skin. However, having had this jacket for the last three years, I can tell you that it well worth the investment. Multi use. It breaths. Your goal should be to stay warm and avoid hypothermia. Point being my full weight of support is behind the Beta AR jacket. It also comes with an Arcteryx DropHood, which is helmet compatible; theres even a separate collar which gives you protection from draughts. Made from Ripstop nylon and with 2.5-layer Pertex waterproof breathable laminate, this top rain jacket for hiking offers amazing protection from wind and rain, while remaining breathable. The main purpose of a rain jacket is to keep you warm when its raining or the wind is blowing hard when used in combination with a mid or base layer. This is a huge element when thinking about the right rain jacket for hiking. There are a number of factors which go into how expensive (or cheap) any given jacket will be. The stylish aspect of this rain jacket means you can go outside in all weather and enjoy nature, while still looking the part and all at a snip of the price of other rain jackets for hiking. This little number packs into your backpack very nicely so much so that you may even forget that its there. Or maybe its a cheap and cheerful rain jacket that makes a ton of noise when you make the slightest movement in it, and youve just had enough of it. Again, thank you! The last thing you want out of a rain jacket, especially for hiking, is for it to be more like a duvet or tarpaulin than you know, a jacket. In most instances, a product is only as strong as the seams that bind it together, so opting for something with covered seams is a good idea if you want something that will stand the test of time. It has a supple feeling, and doesnt feel irritating next to your skin; the company actually worked hard to make this more than just a rain cover. Looking good can make a difference! All in all, this is a top choice for a hiking jacket its even great for skiing, too. To make things even easier, we have thrown in a guide on how to choose the best jacket based on your own needs. Its made from three layer Gore-Tex Pro, which gives you protection from those heavy storms without being too bulky. TREAD LABS INSOLES: As good as custom orthotics at a fraction of the price. Ponchos not so much. Much like the packability of a rain jacket for hiking, the weight of it will greatly affect your choice. The length of the Womens Beta LT Jacket is slightly longer in the body than the mens version, for better coverage, and fits comfortably under a harness. Required fields are marked *. I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. This rain jacket will keep you dry, of course, with its two-layer Gore-Tex waterproof breathable laminate. Some of the bulkier waterproof jackets out there dont exactly have the ability to pack down into a small cube, but some of the lightweight, thin rainshells out there can be folded down into a very neat and very packable package. And our top pick of heated jackets is this one by Wear Graphene. The minimalist shell is made out of three-layer Gore-Tex Active laminate, which might sound technical (and it is) but put simply it means that the jacket is breathable and lightweight, whilst remaining waterproof. Coming in three colors nuclear (green), golden yellow (more orangey), and black cherry (purple) you also have the choice of picking a color that suits you, rather than opting for the standard regular black or khaki colors so prevelant in the outdoor clothing space. Is the material machine washable, for example? Gore-Tex, for example, offers not just breathability, but also windproofing and waterproofing. Less condensation. Patagonia is not only a top quality company, but probably the most environmentally conscious outdoor company out there and we love their products. And then you wont have to keep the receipt. Theyre great for carrying spare gloves, hats, and keeping navigation tools in easy reach. They can come with chinguards, peaks, caps, be adjustable, removable, or non-removable. Maybe youve already got a rain jacket but its just not THAT waterproof! We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Another top rain jacket for hiking for men that comes from a well known brand Columbia, of course this one wont disappoint. I love inexpensive, but I dont like gear that doesnt last. There are also two internal, laminated pockets you know things wont get wet here (tickets and smartphones go here, basically). Its a great choice if you are looking for a basic womens rain jacket for hiking, or for everyday use equally. With this in mind, youll need to be able to stash it somewhere. So light! We want to hear all about it. The level of waterproofing you want actually may vary, too. Well, youve come to the right place: Welcome to our guide to the best rain jackets for hiking ever. You can easily then clip them onto a belt, or harness, or shove them into a daypack without noticing theyre there at all. But being so thin, you may think it then skimps on durability not so. Second-longest-serving member of team Broke Backpacker. This waterproof jacket may look like straight up and down, outdoor adventure-type clothing which it is but there has been a lot of thought and technology that has gone into making this product. These have, of course, been designed for men and make for a much better option if you are looking for something that has been specifically designed, rather than settling for a unisex option. It is also windproof, which means there will be little to no draft in blustery conditions. Meant for extreme cold, wind, rain and snow, this top rain jacket for women for hiking has been well constructed to be both strong and light at the same time, making sure you are well looked after in harsh conditions. Whatever you decide, pay close attention to the features of the jackets youre comparing. And then I tore a huge rip in it while taking off my pack, and I have no idea what started the tear. Of course, it is also waterproof and windproof, with sealed seams for complete protection from the elements. It may just become your go-to jacket for everyday use! Check out our full-length Beta AR review. Nylon Ripstop is a fabric that has become widely used for its durability. No duplication of photos, maps, or text without permission. Weve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Its the kind of jacket you can keep to throw on just if youre heading out to the grocery store or on a day hike. As you may be able to tell from our rad list of rain jackets for hiking, there are a lot of different choices you could make. This jacket will keep you dry on a rainy day, plus if its chilly, theres enough room underneath it all for layering. In the rain I use an umbrella & a Tyvek rain skirt thats also my ground cloth. In an emergency, I can hunker down under my umbrella & poncho and ride out just about anything. Shop our wide selection now! Honestly, speaking from experience, you do not want a rain jacket ripping or tearing at the seams on you during a downpour! If youre not likely to be going anywhere that gets horrific storms and heavy downpours, or youre not going on long distance hikes where waterproofing is essential, and you just want something for country strolls or walking the dog, then stringent, pro-grade waterproofing may not be for you. What we really like about this top womens rain jacket is its breathability. The material it is constructed out of is 88% nylon and 12% elastine, with waterproof breathable laminate. However, for something more cool and casual, we recommend the Patagonia Insulated Torrentshell Jacket. Tribal Bali: The Best Coworking Hostel in the World Has Opened Its Doors. Your email address will not be published. A droptail design, for instance, is something that will keep you covered too. There are a whole lot of genius little design details that add up to you being the lord of hiking with your high performance, breathable, versatile rain jacket. Do you want a rain jacket that is going to be perfect for any hiking or travel trip you choose to embark on? Find the pack that suits YOU. The Outdoor Research Helium II Rain Jacket doesnt just offer rain protection, its also made from a breathable material which is ideal for hotter days. GOSSAMER-GEAR: Take 15% Off all Gossamer Gear Backpacks, Tents, Tarps, Trekking Poles and Accessories with Coupon Code "SECTIONHIKER22". Being a rain jacket, this sort of thing is not what you are going to need to be wearing the whole time you are hiking. But to be honest, I dont trustthe breathability ratings published by manufacturers because theyre measured in ideal laboratory conditions that have little to do with actual use. At least for me. And then I found a practically new, still in its pouch, Frogg Toggs poncho at a thrift store for $4. Its hip length, meaning its not too short, not too long, and can be layered nicely. Its breathable shell means that, even if you wear it in a rainy Pacific or Southeast Asian situation, you wont get too much of that sweaty discomfort that comes with some waterproof jackets. Either way, it can actually be pretty tricky deciding for yourself what rain jacket is going to be the best for you So to help you decide, we have come up with a handy mini guide to figure out just how to choose the right rain jacket for hiking to best suit your own needs. If you are looking for storm protection when you are out hiking, running, or whatever it is you do to keep fit outside, then this lightweight rain jacket is for you. Quick Answer: These are the Best Rain Jackets for Hiking of 2022, #3 Best Rain Jacket for Hiking for Women, #4 Best Lightweight Rain Jacket for Hiking, More of the Best Rain Jackets for Hiking (Mens), More of the Best Rain Jackets for Hiking (Womens), Buyers Guide How to Choose the Best Rain Jacket for Hiking, FAQ about the Best Rain Jackets for Hiking, Final Thoughts on the Best Rain Jackets for Hiking, Black Diamond Stormline Stretch Rain Shell, Mountain Hardwear Exposure 2 Gore-Tex Paclite Stretch Jacket, Outdoor Research Helium II Rain Jacket Womens, Outdoor Research Interstellar Rain Jacket. Note though, its great for rain but is not a good winter jacket. There are zipper pockets to keep your things from falling out of them, and can keep your hands warm if you need to. A good poncho is the best option. Im fairly large as it is and at least where Im hiking often have to navigate in/around/between trees or other obstacles. Check out our full-length Zeta SL review. There are many different materials that we mentioned in our list that make up some of the best rain jackets out there. So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card! You can see why its our top choice for the best lightweight rain jacket for hiking. Free Shipping and Returns. Its pretty versatile, which is why weve chosen it as our top best rain jacket for daily use. Another thing is the length of the jacket; the shorter it is, the more it can breathe. A tip would be to get a size up, so that you can wear a thicker mid layer. Both pockets are enormous and can hold lots of gloves, hats, or snacks. When hiking out in nature, its easy to get muddy and mucky and, lets face it, sweaty and maybe smelly. So cheap! Save big on Exos/Eja, Atmos/Aura, and Stratos/Sirrus Backpacks. I know the thing it going to let me down, but I still love the dang thing. Montem make good quality but totally affordable gear and this rain jacket is one prime example. 2022, The Broke Backpacker. Hem drawcord: Cinch it closed to keep the wind from blowing up between your legs and robbing your torso heat. In fact, this is a good option for not only a hiking jacket, but one dedicated to rock-climbing, too. Its one of the reasons Arcteryx are up there with the best jacket brands on the market. The ultimate question is whether you should bother buying a waterproof/breathable jacket with crummy breathability specs or one thats waterproof but not breathable since youre going to get wet inside anyway. Another offering from Outdoor Research, the Interstallar is another great option for a womens rain jacket for hiking that is built to withstand harsh conditions. Likewise, if you just want a jacket for your commute, or something to wear around town when its raining, again: you wont need an Alpine level, ski-ready rain jacket. One of the most prominent aspects of breathability in many jackets is the presence of under arm zippers. That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we dont believe are up to scratch. A good poncho is the best option. < This is counter to the "hike your own hike" ethos. It is not always the case that the most expensive jacket will be the best one out there for you, so if youre already thinking that some of the choices on this list are no good for you (because theyre out of your price range) think again! Patagonia and Marmot are also great brands that offer quality hiking gear. All in all, this is an easy to use, packable, just-in-case sort of rain jacket that will be a welcome addition to your hiking inventory. For starters, being so light, the Outdoor Research Helium II Rain Jacket works well as a shell layer, with room enough underneath for light layering. There is a lot to think about in the materials of a rain jacket for hiking. Heres what people usually want to know: Youll never know how heavy the rainshower will be, so wed recommend spending a few more bucks on a proper waterproof jacket. It also packs down pretty nicely, folding down into its own right pocket, and comes with a clip that can attach to a belt for easy access. There are also mesh lined pockets, which work as vents, further adding to the breathability of the jacket; theres also an adjustable hood with built in visor for extra rainproofing credentials. When you have to hike in cool wet weather, you want to limit the amount you perspire by actively managing your warmth level. The outer material is Ultralight and thin, made from antimicrobial and anti-odor graphene, is properly breathable and even features moisture wicking. There are some great rain jackets out there that are certainly easy on the wallet that are also great quality. Check the latest price at: Amazon | Backcountry. Weighing in at just 6.4 oz and packing down to a tiny size (were talking apple-sized, people!) Other perks of this jacket include its adjustable hood, sealed seams for extra waterproofing, and a draw-cord hem and elastic cuffs to keep all the elements out. The key to doing this involves venting excess warmth by removing or venting layers. But we do it because we love it we love providing epic and free content. The fit also means that theres enough room for an insulating base underneath without worrying about compromising your comfort or mobility. It has also been treated with water repellent Arcteryx Nu for additional weather protection. Theyre also good for keeping snacks close at hand so you can eat while you hike. If staying perspiration-free in the rain is important to you while youre hiking down a trail carrying a loaded backpackmaybe you should pick another sport. Pit zips and active venting trump breathability claims any day. Were into the simplistic design of this REI jacket, streamlining the jacket into everything you need out of a rain jacket for hiking without skimping on quality. Then pop your email address in below and well send you a FREE copy of How to Travel the World on $10 a Day! make travel your LIFE. As you saw, our top choice for the best overall rain jacket for hiking is the Arcteryx Mens Beta AR Jacket theres just no way you can go wrong with this one. This high specification rain jacket is a treat for alpine-minded folks and tea-trekking adventurers alike. CAMPSAVER.COM: Free Shipping and Free Returns on Purchases of $49 or more. I have bought Patagonia, North Face, and Marmot jackets , and they all have leaked when exposed long enough. Packing it down into a small size wont affect your day pack too much and youll be glad you brought it on the hike with you. And were all for that! Constructed out of 40 denier Ripstop Gore-Tex, the Zeta SL Rain Jacket is both waterproof and windproof. . Several years ago, I found a Frogg Toggs rain suit at my local hardware/general store for $20. However, when it comes to buying something for outdoors, the type of activities you want to do will greatly affect what sort of rain jacket for hiking you end up purchasing. This lightweight and reliable jacket is also a great choice if you are just going to be using it for casual, city or town-based operations. The Rainier has two zippered pockets, both lined with mesh. One feature that often in jackets are those armpit zippers, which this Black Diamond offering features great for cooling down if youve worked up a sweat en route. Knowing just how small and non-bulky your potential choice jacket will pack down to is important, especially if you plan to use it on a backpacking trip, for example. I use a poncho. Everything a backpacker needs. So I patched it up but muttered & cursed. The Compass 360 Ultrapak Ultra-Lite Jacket, The Sea-to-Summit Ultra-Sil Nano Tarp Poncho, Backpacking and Fishing in the Wild River Wilderness, How to Stop Your Superfeet Insoles from Squeaking, BearVault New Canister Sizes: BV425 & BV475, Gossamer Gear Silverback 65 Backpack Review, 10 Most Durable Lightweight Backpacks of 2022, Nitecore 10000 mAh USB Power Bank (5.9 oz), Feathered Friends Flicker 40 Quilt Sleeping Bag. While heavier, many waterproof/breathable jackets are better quality than non-breathable ones with more features, including taped seams. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Close, https://www.facebook.com/freebornaidenblog, https://www.instagram.com/freeborn_aiden/. Our guide threw in a load of great choices, from the best rain jackets right now, to top tailored choices for men and women alike, specifically designed for different fits and body shapes. The perfect add-on to your outdoor gear, the Outdoor Research Helium II Rain Jacket is ultralight. We bring you epic FREE content!Find out how YOU can help support us. Take into consideration the types of the materials that are being used in the construction of the rain jacket you are interested in, and do some research into whether those materials will stand up to the types of activities you plan on doing. The Beta AR is far from the cheapest jacket on my list. Thankfully, this rain jacket has been specifically designed with women in mind; you can, therefore, expect the fit to be optimal for everything from wrist to bust. Want a different brand, have a look at the Patagonia Calcite instead. Coming from a well known and trusted brand, the Patagonia Insulated Torrentshell Jacket is an insulated offering thats good for all sorts of weathers and occasions. It unfolds into a waterproof, windproof, breathable concoction of delight when you need it the most. Its also one of the more affordable options. And actually, its not a flashy jacket, but it offers the protection you need to keep you dry. So you want it to look good, right!? It has been constructed out of breathable N100p-X 3L Gore-Tex Pro, a three-layered fabric that has been designed for abrasion resistance. The armpits also have zippers so you can open them to let out some extra heat when you need to. REI is The Broke Backpackers retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. Or why not look over the womens Zeta LT? Theres even an insulated hood that fits over a helmet, as well as two hand-warmer pockets, which will really keep you warm if you head outside on a particularly chilly day. These things are easy to overlook, but understanding the care and cleaning conditions of the rain jacket youre interested in could mean the difference between convenience and a headache. document.getElementById( "ak_js_4" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_5" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Im a sartorial nightmare, but it works for me. Thank you for your support . If you are looking for the best rain jacket for hiking for women, then the Arcteryx Womens Beta LT jacket may just suit you. Investing and paying out your hard earned cash on any item that just isnt going to last doesnt make any sense. The simplistic cut means that its suitable for all sorts of occasions. Check the latest price at: REI | Backcountry | Amazon, Check the latest price at: Columbia | Amazon, Check the latest price at: Sea-to-Summit | Campsaver. Your email address will not be published. Theres also things like nylon Ripstop, which is known for being tough and durable, while remaining lightweight. If you are currently in possession of an awesome rain jacket, and its not on our list tell us in the comments! Thus, I also own a jacket. I love it! It is all too easy to opt for a simple rain jacket that is loud and noisy when you wear it, and when worn with a simple t-shirt or button-down shirt just feels irritating and itchy against bare skin. So, the jackets heating insulation pads are powered by a power bank which should keep the jacket heated for 10 hours or so. It is made from incredibly light and soft Montem Drac-Tech Performance fabric, this execution provides outstanding protection, breathability, and packability. Its not made to keep you warm so you have to use layers, and tighten up those cuffs and waistband but it is definitely a formidable waterproof item that you wont regret buying. As opposed to the light Helium II, this offering weighs in at 11.6 oz, making it heavier but also thicker for more warmth, whilst still being relatively lightweight. Here are some of the most important features to look for when comparing different jackets. Hiking in itself can certainly be sweaty work and youll usually warm up soon enough after hitting the trails but sometimes, the elements just seem to be against you! Clearly, a poncho is what works best for you. The jacket offers uniform heated throughout the jacket so its not a case of hot and cold spots. Gore-Tex, employed in many of their (and other companys) jackets, maximize the breathability of any given jacket. Constructed from versatile Gore-Tex Pro shell, the company actually tout this jacket as a fully protective environmental shelter. This sounds pretty cozy to us! Many of the lightweight options pack down to a very small size indeed like, apple-sized little packages. You should also consider other things, such as high durability buckles, poppers and buttons, as well as opting for YKK zippers over something no-brand. A good rain jacket should provide several ways for you to dump excess heat without having to take it off completely. Rather than settling for an ill-fitting mens or unisex jacket, this one is specifically designed to fit a female figure, providing full coverage without having to skimp on comfort.