In Japan's mountains, where the weather is changeable, rainwear is essential equipment whether you're hiking or trail running
This item is even more important than usual during the rainy season when the weather is gloomy and humid. Fortunately or unfortunately, with the diversification of ways to enjoy the mountains these days, you have to choose from an overwhelming variety of models, not only in color and design but also in material, weight, and functionality
So, among the many rainwear styles available, rain jackets designed for activities that involve a lot of running in the mountains, such as trail running and fastpacking, have suddenly gained attention in recent years. This time, we've picked out some of the most notable models this season and compared them to evaluate them
table of contents
A comparative review of lightweight rainwear for trail running and fast packing
Select a comparison candidate
Activities like trail running and fastpacking are based on carrying a small, light load and moving quickly while exerting yourself (sweating). Naturally, you'll be running a lot
The rainwear I chose this time had to have the characteristics suitable for those activities. For example, it had to be lightweight and not get stuffy even when I sweat. Recently, there have been a few models that not only have those basic characteristics, but also have more detailed functions that are designed with the user in mind, so having such interesting gimmicks was also a point in my selection. This was a tough decision, but no matter how "light" it may be, I didn't choose a model that is more suitable for mountain climbing or UL hiking
The above framework is the basis, but other
- Preferably new (or almost new) items for this season
- Older works that I haven't experienced and am interested in
- Make sure the materials and fabrics of the comparison candidates do not overlap
- budget(!)
We have taken these factors into consideration, so please understand that there are some models that have been omitted. So, here are the top 6 candidates that Outdoor Gearzine has chosen as the "best of the best!"
Patagonia Storm Racer Jacket
Ever since its release in 2020, I've been wanting to try out this innovative rainwear, which has a visual impact that makes you think, "Wow, they did it!" I love these kinds of crazy products. There was already a lightweight rainwear with the same name, but when Patagonia revamped their mountain running lineup last season, this jacket was also significantly updated. I'm curious to see how it actually works!
THE NORTH FACE Hyperair GTX Hoodie
GORE-TEX SHAKEDRY™, with its radical exposed waterproof and breathable membrane, has achieved sustained water repellency and exceptional lightness and breathability. Over the years since its introduction, its adoption in rainwear has grown exponentially. Among these, we've selected the Hyperair GTX Hoody, which, not content with merely fabric quality, is packed with a variety of running-friendly features and functions . Developed in collaboration with top athletes, it was developed with the goal of providing functionality and comfort for continuous trail running. This cutting-edge garment was developed solely for running. Note: The model tested here is the one before the current latest model. While some parts have been changed in the latest model (such as the pocket on the back waist), we believe this does not significantly affect the evaluation, and therefore tested the previous model.
OMM Kamleika Jacket
OMM with its unwavering focus on "how to create gear that works in the Original Mountain Marathon mountain race," has developed a revolutionary waterproof and breathable jacket not found in the long history of mountaineering rainwear. This is OMM 's signature protective action jacket, the Kamleika Jacket . It offers the same waterproofness as rainwear, but with the exceptional stretch and breathability of a softshell, making it a unique piece of functionality and ease of use. While not a new model this year, it's one you shouldn't leave out.
Teton Bros. FEATHER RAIN FULL ZIP JACKET 2.0
Teton Bros. has a large following among trail running and fastpacking enthusiasts, and we the FEATHER RAIN FULL ZIP JACKET 2.0 , a 3-layer rainwear that offers a good balance of comfort, durability, and functionality despite being extremely lightweight . Gear for these types of new activities tends to be overshadowed by overseas brands, but we hope they'll do their best as a representative of Japan!
Mont-Bell Versalite Jacket
When it comes to rainwear for mountain climbing in Japan, it goes without saying that Mont-Bell is a must-have. Mont-Bell has a lineup that covers everything, but this time we have selected the brand's lightest trail running shell, made with GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ fabric. Will it not only be good value for money, but also show unexpected performance?
inov-8 ULTRASHELL HZ
British trail running shoe manufacturer inov-8 has developed an incredibly light, yet extremely waterproof and breathable rain jacket. Weighing less than 100g, it easily meets the standards of essential gear for trail runs and mountain races, making it a waterproof shell made for racing. While its uses may be limited, we hope that it might just be all you need!
In the past, we have also conducted comparative reviews of lightweight rainwear, which should still be useful, so please feel free to check them out too
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Evaluation points
In this test, each model was evaluated based on the following seven criteria:
- 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
- Resistance to stuffiness: Each brand may publish its own rating for breathability, but the criteria are not always the same. For this reason, we evaluate the breathability performance in the specifications as well as the breathability of the material while moving, including ventilation
- Comfort: Evaluates the comfort of wearing the garment, such as the feel of the sleeves against the skin and the fit
- Mobility: In this test, which involves a lot of running, we evaluated the comfort of the garment while moving, such as whether it causes little stress to the upper body during vigorous movements and whether it is easy to move in
- 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
- Functionality: Evaluates the overall ease of use at a practical level, including ease of adjustment of the hood, sleeves, and hem, as well as pockets and ease of packing
- Weight: Evaluation is based on actual weight, including the weight when actually worn
Test environment
From May to June, we tested each item by walking and running on a day trip course with ups and downs on the trails of Northern Shinshu, Nagano Prefecture. We also tested the waterproofness by wearing the items in the rain, and also conducted a shower test simulating heavy rain
Test Results & Spec Comparison Table
If you find it difficult to see the table on the lightweight display for smartphones, click here.
| comprehensive evaluation | AAA | AAA | AAA | AAA | AA | A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| item |
Patagonia Storm Racer Jacket |
THE NORTH FACE Hyperair GTX Hoodie |
OMM Kamleika Jacket |
Teton Bros. FEATHER RAIN FULL ZIP JACKET 2.0 |
Mont-Bell Versalite Jacket |
inov-8 ULTRASHELL HZ |
| Here is ◎ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Here is △ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| waterproof | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Stuffiness | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| mobility | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| durability | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Functionality | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| weight | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Specifications | ||||||
| official weight | 198g | 215g | 265g | 170g | 134g | 97g |
| Actual weight | 195g | 192g | 255g | 181g | 136g | 93g |
| Water-resistant and breathable material | H2No Performance Standard Shell | GORE-TEX Active with SHAKEDRY™ Product Technology | Kamleika - Nylon 4-Way Stretch | PU porous material | GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER® | 100% polyester (polyurethane resin coating) |
| Number of layers | 3 | 2 (membrane + lining) | 2.5 | 3 | 2 | 2.5 |
| Water resistance (mm) | Undisclosed | Undisclosed (over 50,000?) | 20,000 | 20,000 | Over 30,000 | 10,000 |
| Breathability (g/m² 24hrs) | Undisclosed | Undisclosed (over 80,000?) | 20,000 | 20,000 | 43,000 | 10,000 |
| Number of pockets | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Packable | 〇 | × (Storage bag included) |
× | × | × (Storage bag included) |
× |
Impressions of each model
Patagonia Storm Racer Jacket
Perfect for a vest-style pack! Extremely comfortable rainwear for trail running
Here is ◎
- Can be worn over a backpack to protect the entire body from rain
- You can access the inside of the pack while wearing it
- Excellent ventilation
Here is △
- The fabric itself is fairly breathable
- If you ever want to take something out of the pack, you have to take it off
What catches your eye most is the zipper line that runs from the neck to both armpits. It's a unique design that makes it look like you're wearing an apron. The zipper on the left side opens all the way down, while the one on the right stops just below the armpits. It may be a little difficult to open and close at first, but don't worry, once you get used to it you'll be able to open and close it quickly. What's more, once you get used to it, you may not want to let go of the many high levels of functionality that this structure makes possible
The zippers are placed symmetrically on the left and right sides, not on the front
First of all, it's important to note that this rainwear isn't just meant to be worn on its own, but is also designed to be worn over a thin, vest-style backpack. It can be worn over a thin trail running pack of around 10L or less without feeling too cramped
The primary purpose of this unique zipper structure is to allow smooth access to the bottles and small items on the front of the vest-style pack by opening the zipper in this state. It allows you to quickly put on and take off the pack while wearing it, keeps the pack dry while you're on the move, and even lets you replenish your water and food while wearing it - a great product (although it can be a hassle if you want to take the contents of the pack out after putting it on...)
Another new convenience that this zipper structure offers is more dynamic ventilation. When all the zippers are closed, the breathability is moderate, but if you open both zippers up to below the chest, you can let in a lot of outside air (I thought it would be a little more convenient if you could open them from the bottom as well). Of course, if you leave them open for too long, you'll get wet, so keep that in mind
The other side drops to this position, allowing for bold ventilation
In addition to its excellent functionality, it's also quite comfortable as rainwear. Patagonia's proprietary H2NO 3-layer fabric has a smooth lining and clever three-dimensional cutting for a slim yet comfortable fit, which I really like. The hem is long to increase warmth and waterproofing, but there are also snap-button slits to prevent your thighs from getting caught when you want to concentrate on climbing or running. Even these small details have a significant impact on comfort
The hem is long, but has snap buttons to make it easy to pull up your legs
Another great feature is that it is packable, so you can turn the pocket inside out and store it compactly
Being able to easily make it smaller is very convenient
The jacket is made with a reliable, unique, lightweight and comfortable fabric, and the attention to detail has made it more satisfying than I expected. It is a jacket that is easy to use not only for trail runners, but also for fast packing and speed hikers
However, one thing to note is that the convenience of being able to wear it over a pack or access the front storage of the vest is only available when wearing a backpack that matches the intended use. It is well-made as pure rainwear, but it won't be of much benefit to those with backpacks over 15 liters, especially those who don't have a bottle or anything else attached to the front. Incidentally, I wondered if the zipper would get in the way if I wore a backpack on top, so I checked, and it seems that this is avoided somehow (see photo below)
In that sense, this was the jacket I would most recommend when paired with a vest-style pack of 10 liters or less, but from the perspective of versatility, I think a more basic model would also be fine.It was a jacket that left an impression with its strong character
THE NORTH FACE Hyperair GTX Hoodie
Unrivaled water repellency and convenient vest-style pack functionality make it safe for even the toughest trail runs
Here is ◎
- water repellency
- Breathability
- Can be worn over a backpack to protect the entire body from rain
- You can access the inside of the pack while wearing it
Here is △
- Outer durability
- Fit is a little loose when not wearing a backpack
- If you ever want to take something out of the pack, you have to take it off
When you put it on, it feels very supple, and the lining is soft and smooth to the touch. And what's especially noteworthy is the high water-repellent and waterproof properties of the GORE-TEX SHAKEDRY™ garment. The smooth outer fabric doesn't soak in water at all, and water droplets simply roll off like vinyl. What's more, this water-repellent effect doesn't wear off after washing
Water-repellent properties last even after spraying water from a hose for over 20 minutes
Having one less layer of membrane through which water vapor can pass naturally affects breathability. Normally, when you start moving around in GORE-TEX fabric, you inevitably feel stuffy, but with this model, that feeling is almost nonexistent. The extraordinary water repellency and breathability make this model head and shoulders above other models in terms of comfort in the rain
of the Hyperair GTX Hoody is its compatibility with vest-style packs. The small gusset on the back allows it to be worn over a backpack up to around 15 liters.
Additionally, there is a ventilation and inner access zipper from the shoulders to the chest that can be opened wide to allow access to bottles and small items. This zipper significantly improves ventilation during periods of sustained high exertion, and allows you to replenish your water and energy supplies while wearing the jacket
In addition, the hood has a cord at the back of the head for a snug fit, and the large brim with padding keeps rain from getting inside the hood or even onto your face, even in heavy rain
The hood fits comfortably on your head, with no stress whatsoever
In addition to its excellent waterproofness and comfort as rainwear, its high functionality, designed to be used as a small vest pack, will make it an incredibly reliable ally no matter how tough the trail or how hard the race. However, it may be a little too bulky for light runners and hikers
Also, when you're not wearing the pack, the fabric of the body tends to bunch up a bit, so you still need to be careful about the gear you use with this model. And while the durability of the fabric itself is not an issue, you still need to be careful about the outer fabric's resistance to external damage such as friction and scratches
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OMM Kamleika Jacket
Excellent as both rainwear and a windproof jacket. A versatile outerwear that can do anything
Here is ◎
- Outstanding ease of movement
- Thumbhole
- Large pocket
Here is △
- Easy to get sweaty
- weight
First of all, we can't help but mention the ease of movement, which is clearly different from other models. OMM's proprietary Kamleika fabric has sufficient waterproof and breathable properties equivalent to those of regular rainwear, but also has outstanding stretchability in four directions, making it exceptionally comfortable to wear. The sleeves feel more like wearing a soft shell than rainwear. This is not just because the fabric is stretchy, but also because of the clever cutting, including the placement of the fabric, which takes into account the direction of stretch
Above all, the stretchability is amazing. It stretches so much you'll be amazed!
The stretchy hood fits perfectly, and the collar and brim are high enough and waterproof
The hood also fits perfectly. If you adjust it properly, the hood will follow your facial movements
As is common with OMM, the cuffs fasten with hook-and-loop fasteners to create thumbholes, providing greater sleeve protection and improved waterproofing
Thanks to the thumb holes, water is less likely to get in through the sleeves, which tend to get wet
The Kamreika Jacket combines the basic functionality of rainwear with exceptional ease of movement , making it a highly versatile rainwear piece that can be used not only for unexpected rain showers but also as a windproof outer layer when it's not raining. Its versatile use and dependability make it perfect for multi-day fastpacking trips while minimizing luggage weight. It's also great for trail running in colder temperatures, when you want to use it as a cold weather jacket.
On the other hand, since it is a bit heavy, I would recommend a different model for short-distance trail runs, and I would not recommend it for use in the hot and humid midsummer in Japan due to its limited ventilation and the sticky lining
Teton Bros. FEATHER RAIN FULL ZIP JACKET 2.0
Here is ◎
- No flaws as a lightweight rain jacket
Here is △
- Nothing in particular
The Teton Bros. Feather Rain Full Zip Jacket 2.0 is a three-layer rainwear that boasts a lightweight design weighing less than 200g and excellent abrasion resistance. First of all, I was impressed by the smooth three-layer lining and the light weight, which makes it feel good against the skin. I was also captivated by the slim, streamlined silhouette that perfectly fits my body shape and how comfortable it is to wear. While it's not stretchy, I'm also pleased with the detailed draping that allows for stress-free movement. Of course, the fine stitching is securely covered with seam tape, so there were no issues with waterproofing whatsoever.
There are many sewn parts, but the seam tape ensures complete waterproofing
Considering its use in Japan's humid climate, the jacket is lightweight yet offers excellent ventilation. The underarms are designed to keep out rain while providing air passage (ventilation), allowing for even a little airflow. Combined with the fabric's high breathability, it didn't feel as stuffy as I expected. It's likely that the lining, especially since it's a three-layer jacket, is also handling some of the water vapor
Two ventilation vents are placed under the armpits
It offers the comfort and durability of a 3-layer fabric, while remaining waterproof, breathable, and lightweight. It also looks and feels amazing, a testament to the high level of engineering. Even as a Japanese, I'm proud that it's been crafted to this level of perfection without losing any of the essential elements of a lightweight rain jacket. It's a rainwear with no holes. If you're looking for a warm season, a relatively short period of time, and a lot of activity, this is a piece of clothing I'd recommend for any outdoor activity, regardless of skill level. Of course, I wouldn't recommend it if you're looking for a model specialized for a specific activity or one that stands out in a single area
Mont-Bell Versalite Jacket
Here is ◎
- Lightweight
- Cost performance
Here is △
- The lining is sticky
- The fit is a little loose
- The hood does not adhere well
What if we made a lightweight waterproof jacket with the bare minimum of weather resistance and functionality? Montbell developed the Versalite Jacket with that mission in mind. The material used is from the GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ Windstopper® series, a new series launched in recent years. Unlike traditional rainwear, this jacket has not passed Gore's storm (waterproof) test, so Gore does not guarantee the product's overall waterproofness. However, it is a type of GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable material, which can be confusing for users. The actual fabric composition is not disclosed, so we won't go into too much detail here.
It's incredibly thin and light. The fabric itself is a two-layer structure of ultra-thin 10-denier nylon and a GORE-TEX membrane. Despite being a GORE-TEX product, it weighs just 136g
The fabric is very thin and the print on the front is visible through the back
Due to its thinness and high breathability, it can be said to be highly breathable, even though there is no ventilation other than the front zipper. However, when used in Japan's hot and humid conditions, the breathability of the fabric alone is not enough, and it is inevitable that you will want a vent somewhere. Considering this, it is unfortunate that the high breathability is not fully utilized
Also, because it has a two-layer structure, when you start to sweat while wearing short sleeves, the lining tends to become sticky against your skin
Also, as is typical of Montbell clothing, the loose fitting that is tailored to a looser body type creates an unfashionable silhouette and causes it to flap around while moving, and to be honest, the "K-Mono Cut" cut, which is designed to be lightweight and waterproof, is not very comfortable in terms of ease of movement, which is a bit frustrating. It felt especially tight when it was sticky
The fit is loose overall, so it flap around in the wind
The hood, like the body, is made quite loose and is highly adjustable so you can fit it to your head shape, but for people with small heads there is too much room and it can get quite wrinkled, making it less waterproof
The hood is large but can be adjusted to fit your needs
I've listed a number of points I'm not happy with, but what I like most about this jacket is its lightness and the fact that the material is waterproof and breathable, both at a higher level than anywhere else. It tends to get sticky when you sweat a lot, but it's a good choice as a wind and rain jacket for fastpacking or trail runs in dry conditions, just in case. And best of all, the affordable price and high cost performance of this jacket are hard to beat
inov-8 ULTRASHELL HZ
The extraordinary lightness and sheer design make it perfect for racing
Here is ◎
- Anyway, lightweight
- Double zipper front
Here is △
- Difficult to put on and take off
- It gets stuffy after a long time
- Water can easily seep in through the gaps in the front over a long period of time
- Durability that seems likely to break easily
Weighing in at just under 100g, this rain jacket is one of the lightest in the world, not just in this test. The fabric is so thin, and the white, translucent material allows the shirt underneath to show through. The color also complies with trail running race regulations, which require the bib number to be visible at all times
It's also an unusual pullover style for this comparison, which makes it difficult to put on and take off, but it does keep the weight down considerably
The waterproofness of the fabric itself is 10,000mm, which is the minimum level for mountain rainwear, so while it's not a problem in light rain, if you wear it for several hours in a downpour it's inevitable that water will get in. What's more, there's no flap or anything at the end of the chest zipper, so the rain that runs off will soak in, making this the level of waterproofing that I had to be most careful about out of all the items I wore this time
The fabric is so thin that the underlying fabric is visible, making it lightweight at less than 100g
Furthermore, in terms of breathability, it tends to get stuffy when the temperature is high or you're doing a lot of exercise, and it's not great at wicking away sweat. However, the front zipper has a double zipper that can be opened from the top or bottom, and opening it from the bottom allows for ventilation while still somewhat limiting the intrusion of rain, which I like. The tendency for it to get stuffy can cause stickiness, but the back of the fabric is treated to prevent stickiness, and it stretches horizontally, so stickiness and the resulting hindrance to mobility are minimized
The double zipper design allows for ventilation while minimizing rain penetration
The elbows, shoulders, and other areas that move are slightly three-dimensionally cut and reinforced with seam tape. The hood fits snugly around the face, but elastic is placed at the back of the head and from the forehead to the cheeks to ensure a secure fit
There are fewer seams to reduce weight, and the back is securely fastened with seam tape
It's lightweight, and its three-dimensional cut and stretchability mean it doesn't restrict movement. It's more like you're wearing it than you are wearing it
On the other hand, because of this, it honestly doesn't fully meet the need to move around comfortably in the rain for long periods of time. It's not something you'd be afraid to bring along when hiking in the mountains where you're likely to need to wear rainwear, or when going deep into the countryside, but in a sense it's recommended in a sense, as it won't be a burden to carry just in case when participating in a race supervised by someone else or on a route where you can quickly get back down the mountain. In other words, it's something to keep in your pack as a talisman when you don't want to gain even a single gram of weight
summary
Finally, for reference, here is a comparison chart of the fit of all the models reviewed this time
This time, we compared rain jackets for trail runners, fast packers, and others who prioritize lightness and mobility. It seems like new models over the past few years have lost the "specialty war" of weight, breathability, and other factors, and instead are being differentiated by practical comfort and ease of use. While this is a welcome development, it can also be difficult for inexperienced users and beginners to tell the difference, so we hope these hands-on reviews will be of some help
As mentioned in the comparison, even among lightweight rainwear intended for high-intensity activities, there is a surprising range in quality, from models like the THE NORTH FACE Hyperair GTX Hoody that can withstand even tough downpours, to models like the inov-8 ULTRASHELL HZ that are just barely reliable as rainwear
If you have the luxury of owning multiple rainwear items, it's obviously best to choose specialized models for each situation, but the reality is that not many people have that kind of leeway. In that case, if you were to choose just one, an all-around jacket like the Teton Bros. FEATHER RAIN FULL ZIP JACKET 2.0 would be by far the most versatile. And for those who don't own a softshell-style outerwear, the OMM is incredibly versatile, so you'll be happy to have one. Choosing rainwear can be a difficult decision, as it evolves every year, but we hope this information helps you find the perfect piece for you
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