staying dry
Two summers ago it rained every time we went out. After the 4th trip in the rain it stopped being fun. In fact, on that last trip it rained so hard our canoe got pushed to shore and we just gave in and set up right on the spot. It was an ugly trip, but a little suffering makes for good stories!
This is why proper weather protection matters. If you're going to be portaging or hiking in pouring rain and driving wind, or if waves are going to splash right down into your canoe, you want to be covered. It's just miserable without good gear.
Some things to look for:
Obviously, point number one is its ability to keep you dry. Look for rain gear made with high-quality waterproof materials such as Gore-Tex or eVent that will keep you dry in even the heaviest rain. It's also good to have breathable rain gear that allows moisture to escape so you don't get too hot and sweaty.
You want strong seams and zippers that can stand up to heavy use. Plus when you're backpacking, space is at a premium so look for rain gear that's lightweight and can be easily packed down into a small space.
Your rain gear should be adjustable to accommodate different layers of clothing. Look for jackets with adjustable hoods, cuffs, and waistbands to get a custom fit that keeps rain out. A good hood is essential for keeping rain out of your face and off your neck. Look for a hood that's adjustable and large enough to fit over your ball cap. Pockets in your rain gear are useful for storing items you need to keep dry, such as your phone or a map.
rain gear reviews
THE NORTH FACE Venture 2
Waterproof, windproof, breathable, lightweight and packable, the North Face Venture 2 rain jacket is durable. With an adjustable hood, cuffs and hem-cinch cord, it comes in several sizes and a variety of colors. Designed with room for extra layers underneath, the jacket is a relaxed fit. It tends to run big.
Made from 100% recycled materials, the ripstop polyester DryVent shell is coated with a Durable Water-Repellent (DWR) finish. Sealed seams keep water out and armpit-zip venting adds breathability. This jacket keeps you dry in heavy rain showers, but struggles under an all-day hike in a torrent or storm. It protects you from the wind chill, but doesn't offer warmth.
Although there isn't a breast pocket, covered zip hand pockets protect your hands and valuables from the elements. The Venture 2 also packs into its own hand pocket, making it convenient to carry in your backpack when not in use. The adjustable hood isn't tight to the head to leave room for a hat, helmet or even a hoodie.
Care instructions are "machine wash." I recommend hanging to dry.
Columbia Glennaker
Water-resistant, windproof, lightweight and packable, the Columbia Glennaker Men's rain jacket is an affordable option for spring, summer or fall sudden rain showers and light drizzle. It has a stow-away hood, adjustable sleeve cuffs, and hem locks on the lower drawcord. Available in a multitude of colors for every wardrobe, this jacket is considered a regular fit. Even allowing for layers underneath, the sizing runs big to huge.
Made from 100% nylon, the outer shell utilizes Hydroplus waterproofing. With the mesh inside, this jacket is lightweight. There are no armpit vents so you'll feel hot in warm weather or if your hike or portage gets rigorous. The hood stows away inside the collar. The Glennaker features zippered hand pockets and an inside breast pocket that doubles as a pack, making it easy to carry when not in use.
Care is machine wash. We hang ours to dry.
Water-resistant, lightweight, packable and perfect for hiking in unexpected rain showers, the Columbia Glennaker rain jacket is an all-round affordable choice.
Helly Hansen Seven J
Waterproof, windproof, and insulated, the Helly Hansen Seven J rain jacket is good for cooler and cold weather camping, hiking, trekking, and biking. The jacket comes in both multiple sizes and bright colors. As a regular fit jacket, the Men's generally run true-to-size.
Made from 100% polyester, the outer shell has been treated with Durable Water Repellency (DWR) coating. Rugged construction includes a quick-dry lining of both body and arms and fully sealed seams. The sleeve lining has a tendency to pull out when putting on the jacket, but back inside they stay put. There are no armpit vents and no self-pack.
The outer material is a little heavier feeling because the jacket isn't a light rain shell. It's a proper rain jacket for early and late spring or fall, or a layer in winter. With an adjustable hood and cuffs and bottom-hem cinch cord, you can customize the fit when adverse weather hits. In prolonged heavy downpours, you will feel wet.
There is a lot of Velcro on the Seven J and it's tenacious! The zipper flap Velcro caught on the cuffs' Velcro when zipping up the coat multiple times. If you pack the jacket without it zipped and the Velcro stuck down, the Velcro will snag and pull. It can ruin other clothes. The zippers either work marvelously, or they break, stick and jam. There doesn't seem to be an in-between period of minor annoyance.
Machine wash, being extra careful to zip up and stick down the Velcro. Tumble dry to reactivate the water repellent treatment. Some fading may occur on bright colors.
Waterproof and windproof, Helly Hansen's cool weather, lined rain jacket is rugged and durable.
GOT FEEDBACK?
If you've used one of the rain jackets I reviewed and you have something to add, I'd love to hear it.
Same, if you have a rain jacket you love (or hate) that's not reviewed here, tell me about it and I'll check it out.
