Whether you're splashing about town or trekking through a monsoon, these are the best rain jackets of 2024.
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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 Jackets guide on April 2, 2024, to add the Outdoor Research Foray II Jacket — a shell with impressive built-in ventilation, as well as the updated Arc’teryx Norvan, and the new Mountain Hardwear Trailverse — built with PFC-free GORE-TEX ePE.
Best Overall Rain Jacket
GORE-TEX Paclite 2L
28,000 mm/24 hours
15,000 g/m²
Yes
Regular
11.8 oz.
Full torso-length side zips for ventilation
Proven GORE-TEX Paclite waterproofing
Can be worn like a poncho over packstraps
Available in a wide size range
Membrane breathability on the lower end
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Budget Rain Jacket
GORE-TEX Paclite 2L
28,000 mm/24 hours
15,000 g/m²
No
Regular
12.5 oz.
Budget price
Weight
Materials
Breathability
Not ideal for city use
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Value Rain Jacket
Proprietary H₂No 3L
20,000 mm/24 hours
Unpublished
No
Regular
13.9 oz.
Sustainability
Price
Plastic-y feel
Fluorinated DWR finish
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Performance Rain Jacket
GORE-TEX ePE 3L
28,000 mm/24 hours
<13 RET
No
Active/Slim
13.2 oz.
Burly construction
Lightweight design
High-quality fit and finish
Non-PFC GORE-TEX ePE membrane
High price
Fabric crinkle
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Ultralight Rain Jacket
GORE-TEX INFINIUM 2L
30,000 mm/24 hours
43,000 g/m²
Yes
Regular
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
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Running Rain Jacket
GORE-TEX 3L
28,000 mm/24 hours
17,000 g/m²
No
Active/Slim
6.7 oz.
Ultra-thin 13-denier face fabric keeps things light
C-KNIT backer helps move moisture
RECCO reflector bumps up safety factor
Trim fit for active running
No pit zips or front snap for venting
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Breathability and Stretch
Proprietary Proflex 3L
10,000 mm/24 hours
35,000 g/m²
No
Regular
14.9 oz.
Impressively stretchy
Comfortable fit
Durable face fabric
Made with climbers and mountaineers in mind
No pit zips
Low waterproof rating
On the heavier side
Austin Beck-Doss
Best of the Rest
GORE-TEX Paclite Plus 2.5L
28,000 mm/24 hours
15,000 g/m²
No
Regular
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
Austin Beck-Doss
GORE-TEX ePE 3L
28,000 mm/24 hours
<13
Yes
Regular
1 lb., 1.4 oz.
Zero PFC construction
Retains high waterproofing rating of 28K mm/24 hours
All water-resistant zippers
Packs into its own chest pocket
75-denier material feels a bit stiff, not very packable
Breathability suffers a bit
Austin Beck-Doss
Pertex Shield 2.5L
20,000 mm/24 hours
20,000 g/m²
Yes
Regular
13.2 oz.
Feature-rich
Adaptable
Price
Less intuitive left-hand zipper
2.5-layer membrane needs pit zips down for added breathability
Austin Beck-Doss
20D 3L H2No Performance Standard
20,000
Unavailable
Regular
Two handwarming, one chest pocket
8.3 oz.
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
Austin Beck-Doss
Pertex Shield 2.5L
20,000 mm/24 hours
20,000 g/m²
Yes
Active/Slim
6.3 oz.
Ultra-packable
Lightweight
Tough Diamond Fuse textile tech
No hand pockets
Can wet out
Austin Beck-Doss
Dry.Q 2.5L
10,000 mm/24 hours
10,000 g/m²
Yes
Regular
10.5 oz.
Whole body stretch
Soft material feel
Mesh-lined pockets
Simple hood
Stretch fabrics require more frequent DWR treatments
Austin Beck-Doss
Proprietary Vertice 3L
>20,000 mm/24 hours
56,000 g/m²
Yes
Regular
7 oz.
Impressively light weight
High breathability
Full waterproof front zipper
Hood aperature is a bit small
Fit and finish is a little rough
Austin Beck-Doss
Proprietary BD.dry 2.5L
10,000 mm/24 hours
10,000 g/m²
Yes
Regular
11.3 oz.
Value
Weight
Packability
Not ideal over layers
Austin Beck-Doss
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.
The foothills of the Cascade mountain range provide the perfect testing grounds for rain jackets; (photo/Erika Courtney)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.
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 II, Patagonia Torrentshell 3L, and Mountain Hardwear Trailverse.
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 Zpacks Vertice or Patagonia Storm10, both jackets built with impressive tech.
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.
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.
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 Rab Kinetic Alpine 2.0 boast impressive values of 35,000 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.
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.
All GORE-TEX membranes utilize an ePTFE membrane structure; (photo/Erika Courtney)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 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 retains the high-level waterproofing of the premium GORE membranes, but at a lower breathability; (photo/Erika Courtney)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.
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 its 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.
The pinnacle of waterproof membranes, GORE-TEX Pro is the waterproofing of high-end rain jackets; (photo/Nick Belcaster)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.
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+ is a supremely thin and packable polyurethane membrane that sees use in light and fast rain wear; (photo/Nick Belcaster)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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Pockets also create seams that may 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 internal space to accommodate your protective headwear.
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.
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.
What is the best waterproof rain jacket?
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.
Is GORE-TEX 100% waterproof?
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.
Do I need to take a rain jacket hiking?
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.
Why do jackets stop being waterproof?
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.
Why do rain jackets wet out?
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.
External pressure on the exterior of a rain jacket, like from pack straps or snow, can lead to premature wetting-out; (photo/Chris Anders)Is there a breathable rain jacket?
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.
Are rain jackets insulated?
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.
Apparel
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.
SkiingWhether you’re skiing in sunny or stormy conditions, here are our top picks for the most durable, protective, and comfortable ski jackets of 2024.
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.
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.
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.
Best Overall
Outdoor Research Foray Super Stretch Jacket
PHOTO:
Amazon
$300 at REI
$300 at backcountry.com
$300 at outdoorresearch.com
Our Ratings
Why We Love It
Rain flies off this durable jacket, and stretchy fabric in the back offers full range of motion.
What to Consider
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 six-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
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Best for Hiking
Outdoor Research MicroGravity Jacket
PHOTO:
Outdoor Research
$196 at Amazon
$279 at backcountry.com
$279 at outdoorresearch.com
Our Ratings
Why We Love It
This jacket is lightweight, remarkably breathable, and packs down small.
What to Consider
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
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Watch How We Test Travel Products
Best Long
Rains Long Jacket
PHOTO:
Madewell
View on Rains.com
$125 at madewell.com
$88 at Saks Fifth Avenue
Our Ratings
Why We Love It
This coat features a stylish Scandinavian look that’ll keep your backside dry.
What to Consider
During our six-month test, the jacket got caught in a car door, which tore the fabric.
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 six-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
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
People / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
The 10 Best Travel Umbrellas of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best Budget
Giisam Windproof Waterproof Jacket
PHOTO:
Amazon
$36 at Amazon
Our Ratings
Why We Love It
This thick, waterproof jacket is a steal at this price.
What to Consider
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
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Best Breathable
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket
PHOTO:
Dick's Sporting Goods
$179 at REI
$179 at backcountry.com
View on Patagonia.com
Our Ratings
Why We Love It
This is a great combination city-and-travel jacket at a reasonable price.
What to Consider
After six months of testing, we felt that this jacket is not versatile enough to be worn every day.
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
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Best Active
Montbell Men’s Jacket
PHOTO:
Montbell
View on Montbell.us
Our Ratings
Why We Love It
This jacket is super packable and can roll up as small as a soda can, so throughout our six-month test, it essentially lived permanently in our commuter bag to have on-hand when it rains.
What to Consider
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
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Best Lightweight
Marmot Precip Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket
PHOTO:
Amazon
$120 at Amazon
$75 at REI
$100 at Zappos
Our Ratings
Why We Love It
It offers excellent value for a high-performance, lightweight jacket.
What to Consider
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
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
The 9 Best Rain Jackets for Women of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best for City Wear
Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket
PHOTO:
Amazon
$42 at Amazon
Our Ratings
Why We Love It
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.
What to Consider
At times during our six-month test, 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
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