[A no-nonsense, self-funded comparison review] What's the best lightweight rainwear this season? We compared top-notch lightweight rainwear in terms of lightness, breathability, and ease of use

Not just during the rainy season, but whenever hiking in the mountains where the weather is prone to change, you should never forget to bring rainwear, an essential outerwear for mountain hiking that will keep you dry and cold

I've noticed that I've been writing about this on this site every other year or so, and this year I'd like to start with a comparative review of the familiar rainwear for mountain climbing

lighter and more compact than ever before , but also waterproof, breathable, and flawlessly crafted down to the smallest details. Here's Outdoor Gearzine's 2021 showdown of the latest rainwear.

Select a comparison candidate

This time, we have mainly selected models that are relatively lightweight (around 250g or less) among the wide range of rainwear available on the market, and that are top-class in terms of performance apart from durability among outdoor rainwear. These models are likely to be sufficient for day trips and 2-3 night mountain climbing trips from spring to autumn. On the other hand, some models may not be sufficient for long-term expeditions, strenuous activities, or for use in winter. Within that range, we have selected the following five "top contenders" for this article

Mont-Bell Storm Cruiser Jacket

In Japan, it is a staple of mountaineering rainwear, and is used as a benchmark by many outdoor manufacturers. Overseas, it is a popular brand among UL hikers for its careful construction that eliminates waste while maintaining its robustness. This time, we will be putting it up against a number of new faces

Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket

The Helium Jacket was originally created as an emergency rain jacket for rock climbers , but due to its light weight and excellent basic performance as a rain jacket, it has also become popular among hikers looking for lightweight protection. This season's update features Diamond Fuse technology, which provides excellent tear strength, making it lightweight yet durable.

Patagonia Storm 10 Jacket

Among the company's rainwear, which uses H2No Performance Standard, a proprietary waterproof and breathable membrane that has become increasingly reliable in recent years, this is an exciting new product that not only offers waterproof and breathable properties but also a good balance of lightness and comfort

THE NORTH FACE Pummer Jacket

This waterproof, breathable, lightweight and comfortable rainwear uses an ultra-thin 15-denier GORE-TEX® Active™ C-Knit Backer. It was developed for experts who demand high performance over long periods in harsh environments, and there's no compromise on quality or price. But how does it perform?

Yama to Michi UL Rain Hoody (Sosui)

This unique and innovative ultra-lightweight rainwear is made by a Japanese garage manufacturer that has earned the trust of UL hikers. It boldly eliminates zippers and pockets while retaining essential functionality, creating a one-of-a-kind appeal. While it is an item that is difficult to compare in some ways, we hope to highlight the differences between this rainwear and other models to highlight its appeal

Test Results & Spec Comparison Table

Impressions of each model

THE NORTH FACE Pummer Jacket

If you ignore the price, it's definitely the best overall. It's like a high-end French dish made by a top chef using the finest ingredients

Here is ◎

• Resistant to stuffiness
• Comfort
• Ease of movement
• Water-repellent and waterproof
• Double zipper on the front

Here is △

• The cord lock on the back of the hood is loose
• Gaps around the hood
• Only chest pocket

My first impression was that this rainwear is made with luxurious, high-end, premium materials, from the fabric to the small parts, so much so that I could almost hear someone say, "That's not fair!"

The breathable waterproof material used is GORE-TEX® Active™ C-Knit Backer. It's one of the best waterproof and breathable fabrics, combining lightweight, weatherproof, and comfortable features with minimal weight, including excellent breathability and a supple, comfortable lining (though the price is insane). Furthermore, the thin 15-denier outer fabric, while not publicly disclosed, appears to be a "microgrid backer"-like fabric, previously used in the lining of the renowned GORE-TEX PRO (as seen in the Impellor Jacket released by Mountain Equipment a few years ago), both in terms of nylon material and texture. While this outer fabric's relatively low density weave makes it lightweight and highly breathable, it wicks away moisture better than expected. Despite this, it's also highly abrasion-resistant and snag-resistant, making it more durable than you'd expect. What's more, I was surprised at how water-repellent it is, even under prolonged, strong showers

The abundant use of high-quality materials doesn't end with the fabric. The front zipper is smooth and waterproof, and it's also equipped with a highly durable and freeze-resistant Vislon zipper with a double top and bottom zipper (see photo below). The front opening can be easily adjusted, allowing for more flexible regulation of humidity and body temperature　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　

The zipper is a double zipper that can be opened from the bottom

Furthermore, the uncompromising construction is evident not only in the choice of materials but also in the construction. What I particularly liked was the ease of movement and lack of stress in the upper body. Despite the lean, slim silhouette, the garment does not flap or feel tight when moving the upper arms. This is due to clever three-dimensional cutting that takes movement into account, exemplified by the gusset crotch-like parts placed under the armpits (similar to the crotch area of ​​climbing pants), which reduces significant stress when moving (see photo below)

The hood is large enough to fit a helmet, and the brim is made of a straight, rigid material that effectively sheds rain from the front. The drawcord at the back of the head provides a three-dimensional fit and is easy to adjust

However, the only other thing I'm not happy about is the hood. While the elastic on the sides makes it easy to put on and take off even with the front zipper all the way up, it doesn't fit snugly around your face, leaving room for cold air and rain to get in. Also, the cord lock at the back of the head is a simple part made of foam rubber to make it extremely lightweight, so it tends to come loose

The brim of the hood is fine, but the sides and around the chin are a bit loose

This flagship rainwear is packed with The North Face's commitment, as it retains the bare minimum necessary to carry out light and fast actions in tough situations, while generously using technology to thoroughly eliminate waste in areas that can be solved with materials and technology

Even though it's highly breathable, the nature of GORE-TEX means that it still retains heat as an outer layer, making it suitable for a wide range of activities, from midsummer hikes to low-temperature mountain climbing. With high performance and versatility in all areas, it's sure to offer performance that's worth the price

The North Face Panmah Jacket, Graphite (GP), Size M

created by Rinker

THE NORTH FACE

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Mont-Bell Storm Cruiser Jacket

The reassurance of a giant rainwear brand that continues to steadily evolve. If you want to protect yourself from the rain, this is it

Here is ◎

• In addition to high water resistance, it is also water-repellent, repelling water droplets
• Breathability
• Highly airtight and easily adjustable hood
• Easier to move than before

Here is △

• Stiff feel
• Loose fit
• The hood brim easily folds in the wind

The undisputed leader in rainwear, the Mont-Bell Storm Cruiser Jacket . The main reason it is so well-known is its unwavering pursuit of functionality as rain gear.

It uses 20-denier GORE-TEX 3-layer fabric with an incredibly high water resistance, so you don't have to worry about waterproofing or durability. Furthermore, the latest update incorporates the unique cutting pattern "K-Mono Cut™," which further reduces seams, further enhancing its reliability. The adjustable sleeves, hem, and hood also provide excellent sealing, making this the most waterproof jacket we've compared

The hood, in particular, is nearly perfect, except for the stiffness of the brim. It has four points of adjustment, including a hook-and-loop fastener and cord lock on the top of the head and two on each side of the chin, allowing for an extremely high level of adjustability. It provides a comfortable fit and completely blocks out the rain, making it the best of all the garments we reviewed (see photo below)

The hood has many cut edges, but it is made three-dimensionally so it fits well

However, on the other hand, the "flawless" construction that many manufacturers have taken as a reference can sometimes be perceived as boring, which is inevitable. We are human after all

For example, the silhouette designed for the majority of Japanese people is still loose, even though it is designed with layering in mind, and can flap around easily during fast-moving activities (see photo below. It's surprising that they even offer a roomier size). In terms of comfort, the lining uses GORE® C-Knit™ Backer technology, which is supposed to improve flexibility and softness against the skin, but the waterproof and water-repellent outer fabric still feels relatively stiff. However, the aforementioned "K-Mono Cut™" technology has made it easier to move around, which is very welcome

The fit is slightly loose, so it's up to the wearer to decide whether they find it easy to layer underneath or whether it looks unfashionable

There are no worries about rain protection or comfort, and it's highly versatile enough to be used all year round when it comes to the classic activity of "mountain climbing." It serves multiple purposes, so the vast majority of climbers will be satisfied with just this. However, this is purely my personal opinion, but frankly, I'm not sure if this is the piece of clothing I truly want "right now." The eternal luxury problem of the giant, which has become so standard, has not disappeared this year either

Montbell Storm Cruiser Jacket #1128615 Dark Charcoal, Size L

created by Rinker

Mont Bell

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Patagonia Storm 10 Jacket

It's lightweight, yet safe and comfortable, and has a great silhouette. It's a well-balanced piece that gives you a sense of high quality

Here is ◎

• A lean fit
• Exceptional comfort
• Highly water-repellent and waterproof
• Easy to use with plenty of pockets and packable design

Here is △

• Because it has many pockets, it tends to get a little stuffy
• The hood has a short brim that points downwards, making it vulnerable to rain from the front

First of all, it's surprisingly soft and supple, even though it's a three-layer fabric, and you'll be surprised at how comfortable it is the moment you put it on. When you put it on, the body and armholes are a little tight, but not so tight that it feels restrictive. The overall slim and sophisticated silhouette is wonderful, and you'll feel naturally excited as soon as you put it on

Additionally, thanks to the detailed three-dimensional cut that takes into account the movement of the joints, mobility is not hindered. The fabric also has a slight stretch, making movement surprisingly stress-free. The appeal of this model is its "high quality as clothing" that combines style and ease of movement. In terms of waterproofness and sweat-wicking, Patagonia's proprietary fabric, "H2No Performance Standard," also meets the standard. While it wasn't exceptionally superior, the water-repellent and waterproof properties were better than I expected, and I was comfortable and didn't get too sweaty when walking at a leisurely pace

Another advantage this model has over others is the ease of use of the pockets and storage. There are three pockets in total. The two large hand pockets on the front are large enough to fit your hands even when you spread them out, so there is a lot of storage space if you want to put something in. The size of the pockets suggests that you can store various things you need while on the move, even if you leave the jacket on in the rain. The chest pocket is packable and can also be used as a storage bag, allowing for compact storage

There are two large hand pockets on the front

Overall, this rainwear has few drawbacks, but if I had to point out a drawback, it would be that the large number of pockets makes it difficult to breathe in the front, which makes it difficult to prevent stuffiness. In fact, I hadn't noticed it until I compared it this time, but the pockets make it surprisingly difficult for moisture to escape

Also, when you tighten the hood to fit your head, the brim folds up and points downwards, which is a bit questionable. It's not a problem if you wear a cap or something, but when it's pointing downwards, the brim's functionality is significantly reduced, and if you wear glasses, water droplets will accumulate to the point where you can't see in front of you. This is something you need to be careful about

A large hood that can be worn over a helmet

This rain jacket is designed for use even on ski mountaineering trips when snow remains, and while it's thin and lightweight, it's still safe and functional. It's the jacket in this comparison that covers the widest range of activities, from classic to modern, including hiking, trekking, fastpacking, and spring skiing. In addition to its excellent balance, its high quality and comfort as a jacket make it unforgettable. If you can relate to these points, this will surely be a satisfying purchase

A comparison of compactness when carried. From left to right: The North Face, Montbell, Patagonia, Yama to Michi (tied with straps), and Outdoor Research. The weight is roughly as stated, but the North Face packs up smaller than expected

Yama to Michi UL Rain Hoody (Sosui)

Unique " value "

Here is ◎

• Light, thin and compact
• No zippers, stress-free and comfortable to wear
• Since there are no unnecessary parts, it is less likely to get sweaty than expected

Here is △

• Ultra-thin fabric for durability
• The hassle of putting on and taking off
• There are no zipper pockets, making it difficult to use for anything other than rain gear

There's no front zipper, no pockets, and no other parts to be found. This is a bold rainwear design that omits many of the "obvious" things that you'd find in a rain jacket up until now, to the point that you start to wonder if it's safe to wear at first sight

Naturally, it's incredibly light. At 109g for a small size, it's almost half the weight of other jackets. It's even lighter than a cotton T-shirt. It's so light, even if it's a cliché, it's hard not to say, "You almost forget you're wearing it." In fact, I put it on in the rain and forgot to take it off, and it only came back when it started raining again that I realized, "Oh, oh yeah, I was wearing it." The lack of a front zipper and pockets, which I mentioned earlier, causes the fabric to unnaturally bend, and the pockets to feel bulky, which are commonplace when wearing a jacket, alleviating these stresses is another major factor that makes it easy to forget you're wearing it

What's more, the effect of this extreme trimming is not only lightness and comfort, but also the fact that it has improved waterproofing is impressive. There are literally only a few stitches: the hood, around the neck, from the sides to the wrists, and at the waist. There are no stitches at all around the shoulders, which are particularly susceptible to a lot of water and pressure from the backpack. By eliminating zippers and stitching as much as possible, the possibility of rain getting in is reduced to a minimum, which is easy to say but difficult to achieve, and I'm impressed by the skill that has been put together

The cutting pattern has almost no seams, making it lightweight and waterproof

The fabric is a lightweight yet durable, waterproof and breathable Pertex Shield Pro 3-layer, and while it's an ultra-thin fabric, it offers excellent water repellency and waterproofing, which should not be underestimated. What surprised me even more was how thin it was, and how it didn't feel stuffy, which was even more surprising than the specs of a garment made from a simple single piece of fabric, with no unnecessary pockets. Before trying it out, I had imagined it would be easy to feel stuffy, as there was no way to adjust the opening or closing of the zipper, so this was a new and positive discovery for me

The overall space is spacious, allowing for good air circulation

Anyway, I discovered a lot of new things and realized that this is rainwear that is fun to wear. Its performance as rainwear is more than sufficient for an ultra-lightweight item, and for multi-day hikes or fastpacking, it will keep you protected even in really bad weather

However, despite its proven capabilities, it's undeniable that this garment is not for everyone. It's difficult to put on and take off, can't be used as a jacket, and doesn't fit your hands or other belongings. If you plan to use it in a wide range of situations, there will inevitably be times when you wish you had one. In that sense, it's too scary to recommend it without reservation, as Montbell does, saying, "Just have this." It's a raincoat that can only be recommended to those who can accept that it's lightweight and suitable for speedy activities, easy to carry, and only needs to protect from the rain when needed, and that nothing else is necessary. It's also best to be familiar with how to handle thin fabrics

With that in mind, if you're looking for ultra-lightweight rainwear in this class, the UL Rain Hoody is undoubtedly the most promising piece of gear out of all the models weighing around 100g that I've tried so far

Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket

The original lightweight rain jacket is now even more reliable thanks to its lightweight, compact yet highly durable new material

Here is ◎

• Lightweight and durable
• Easy to move in and comfortable to wear
• stylish
• Packable

Here is △

• Both waterproofness and breathability are not so good
• The lining feels sticky when worn against bare skin
• Only chest pocket
• The front zipper is stiff

At under 200g, this classic lightweight rain jacket is still one of the lightest in its class, and can be said to have started the lightweight boom that continues to this day.As it continues to be a long-selling product, it has steadily overcome the disadvantages of its light weight

While using the same Pertex Shield 2.5 layer as the previous version, it has been made slightly lighter and has also added a new technology called "Diamond Fuse technology." This is a high-density knit with diamond-shaped cross-section yarn, which has improved tear resistance five times compared to the previous version, and has a structure that is resistant to friction and snags, achieving excellent durability despite the thinness of the fabric itself (see photo below)

Diamond Fuse technology makes it thin yet durable

However, that's about all I can mention, and compared to the other jackets in this comparison, it left me with the impression that it was lacking in both waterproofness and resistance to stuffiness. It may have been a disadvantage that it was the only 2.5-layer model in this comparison, but even with the textured coating on the lining, it still felt sticky when I sweated, and it seemed to take a long time to wick away sweat (see photo below). There's no ventilation due to the lightweight design, so there's nothing I can do about it. The wrist area is loose, so it does manage to let moisture out, but on the flip side, it makes it easier for rain to get in through the wrists

The back has a textured print to reduce stickiness

The jacket's only chest pocket doubles as a storage bag, making it compact enough to fit in the palm of your hand. It's also lightweight, making it the perfect rainwear piece to keep in your bag

Packable and can be stored in a chest pocket

This rainwear may not even be an option for long-term mountain hikes where rain is a good expectation. On the other hand, if you want to bring rainwear but want to reduce the amount of luggage you carry, or if you're just doing a day hike and want to carry this as a talisman in case of unexpected bad weather, you'll be grateful in an emergency. Because it's lightweight, you might want to use it for trail running or fastpacking, but in situations where you're constantly sweating, the lack of breathability becomes noticeable, so it's probably better to choose clothing with more breathability. This isn't a concern for hiking or trekking, though

OUTDOOR RESEARCH Men's Helium Rain Jacket 19842910 Black, Size S

created by Rinker

OUTDOOR RESEARCH

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summary

There are tons of other interesting models of rainwear for hiking, and it's a shame to stop at these five, but budget and time constraints are always an issue. In any case, most of them are basically standard in construction, so you probably won't be disappointed no matter which one you choose. However, if you look closely, you'll find subtle differences in comfort depending on the concept of each, and the one you carefully choose will surely become an irreplaceable piece of clothing for you

If you're looking for everything, we recommend THE NORTH FACE's Pummar Jacket the Patagonia Storm 10 Jacket . If you're looking for something reliable for everyday we recommend the Mont-Bell Storm Cruiser Jacket nothing beats the Yama-to-michi UL Rain Hoody (Sosui) The Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket may have been a poor comparison in this case. However, its lightness, packability, and comfortable fit, which make it easy to use as a windshell, make it a valuable addition to your backpack to weather temporary bad weather.

I believe that most people reading this article are thinking carefully about their expensive purchases so as not to regret them, but I hope that this article will be of some help to you and that you will be able to find a piece of clothing that satisfies you

[Supplementary Information] Rain Jacket Comparison Review

Test environment

From May to June, we tested each item by walking a day trip on a trail in northern Shinshu, Nagano Prefecture, with a mix of ups and downs. We also tested the waterproofing by wearing the items in the rain, and also conducted shower tests simulating heavy rain

Evaluation points

This time, we evaluated each rain jacket based on the following seven evaluation criteria

1. Waterproofness: The first thing to evaluate when it comes to rainwear. It's not just about the water resistance of the fabric, but also about whether it's easy for rain to get inside the garment when it's actually raining
2. Resistance to stuffiness: Each brand may publish its own rating for breathability, but the conditions are not always the same. For this reason, we evaluate not only the breathability performance on the specs, but also the ease of feeling stuffy while moving, including ventilation
3. Comfort: Evaluates the comfort of wearing the garment, such as the feel of the sleeves against the skin and the fit
4. Mobility: Evaluates comfort while moving, such as whether the upper body can move easily and without stress
5. Durability: Evaluates the fabric's resistance to friction and scratches, ease of breakage of parts, and lack of deterioration due to washing. As this is a short-term, subjective evaluation, please use it for reference only
6. Usability: Evaluates the overall ease of use on a practical level, including ease of adjustment of the hood, sleeves, and hem, as well as pockets and ease of packing
7. Weight and compactness: Evaluates weight and compactness when stored

   

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