Comparison review: We compared ultra-lightweight rainwear that is great for mountain climbing and running [Summer 2016]

Rainwear, which is said to be one of the essential equipment for outdoor activities, nowadays, comes in a variety of types depending on the season and purpose.

this in detail in this article, " How to Choose the Best Rainwear ," but personally, I think that recently there are fewer opportunities to carry old-fashioned heavy, bulky rain gear. What we can no longer let go of is ultra-lightweight rainwear that is as light as a blade, and is becoming more and more high-performance, multifunctional and convenient as the years go by.

Here we will continue from last year's "best lightweight rainwear" that has evolved significantly, with ultra-lightweight rainwear of approximately 300g or less, which is based on the latest major models of each manufacturer and evaluated them from various perspectives.

Click here for the latest comparison review for [2018 Spring/Summer Model]↓↓↓

Comparison Review: Which rainwear is the most useful on a trail run right now? Runners actually tried it 2018

table of contents

• About the items we compared and tested this time (trends from 2016)
• Test results and spec comparison table
• Summary of evaluation results - Recommended rainwear by type -
• Detailed reviews of each item (Page: 2)

About the rainwear we compared this time (trends from 2016)

As the name suggests, the most important feature of ultra-light rainwear is that it is basically just light and compact. While traditional rainwear can weigh around 300-500g even if it's just a jacket, all of the items we've picked this time weigh around 300-100g. While these are difficult to use for heavy rains all day long or for traverses for several nights due to durability, their excellent portability and breathability make them perfect for use in calm environments (high temperature seasons, day trips, low mountains, etc.) for high sweating activities.

This year, the latest models were released by many brands more than last year (2015), so we have significantly increased the number of test items, including models that have continued from the previous time. We have picked out a total of 14 items (items that have not been remodeled since last year are tested on models purchased last year again this year).

A major trend in 2016 was that models that were generally made lighter based on the concept of mountain climbing rainwear, but this season, many models have been introduced that were designed primarily for trail running. In this comparison, taking these trends into consideration, we first took into consideration the differences to ensure that the rankings were not biased. We have also reviewed the evaluation axis and evaluation content to make it easier for users of various purposes, such as hiking, fast packing, trail running, and motorcycles to compare and refer to them.

Test environment

The test period for ultra-lightweight rainwear is approximately six months from March to August 2016. The authors conducted the test multiple times, repeating multiple times, in alpine areas ranging from low mountains to 2,000m in alpine areas, where all items were walked and run in good weather (at least one day) and rainy weather (at least one pitch), and compared clothing in as many situations as possible. Conversely, we have not been able to test in autumn and winter or in mountainous areas of the 3,000m level. Although we don't get hit by rain in the mountains all the time, we change clothes for a short time and experience rainfall on all of our clothing. In addition, we have reproduced extreme conditions as practical as possible, such as heavy rain tests in the shower, or comparing how much sweat is removed by wearing them on a running in the city.

Test results and spec comparison table

Overall ranking	1st place	1st place	3rd place	4th place	4th place	4th place	7th place	7th place	9th place	9th place	11th place	11th place	13th place	14th place
item	MONTANE MINIMUS 777 JACKET	Rab Flashpoint Jacket	THE NORTH FACE Climb Very Light Jacket	Berghaus Vapor Light Hyper Shell Jacket	Teton Bros. Breath Jacket	THE NORTH FACE Strike Jacket	MAMMUT DRYTECH FREEFLIGHT JACKET	MILLET W7 50000 ST JKT	MONTANE MINIMUS JACKET	Patagonia Alpine Houdini Jacket	NORRONA bitihorn dri 1 Jacket	OUTDOOR RESEARCH HELIUM HD JACKET	mont-bell versalite jacket	Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Jacket
Overall score (out of 100)	79	79	78	77	77	77	76	76	75	75	74	74	72	69
Reference price	39,960 yen	38,880 yen	39,960 yen	19,440 yen	37,800 yen	19,440 yen	28,080 yen	31,320 yen	29,160 yen	27,000 yen	32,400 yen	30,800 yen	13,500 yen	27,000 yen
This is ◎	Breathability, mobility, weight, storage, balance	High all-around performance	Waterproof, comfortable, durable	Mobility, weight, storage capacity	Slim fit, breathability, mobility, ease of use	Breathability, mobility, weight, storage	Slim fit, mobility, storage, balance	Waterproof, comfortable, durable	Comfort, balance, ease of use	Mobility, balance, ease of use	Breathability, comfort, ease of use	Storageability, balance	Easy to use	Mobility, moisture permeability
This is △	Durability	None in particular	Mobility, weight	Waterproof, comfort, durability, ease of use	Durability	Easy to use	Durability	Mobility, weight	Mobility	Comfort	Mobility, durability	None in particular	Breathability, mobility, durability	Waterproof, comfort, weight, ease of use
Waterproof (20 points)	16	17	18	14	16	16	16	17	16	15	16	15	15	14
Breathability (20 points)	17	16	17	16	18	17	16	17	16	15	17	16	14	15
Comfort (10 points)	5	7	9	4	5	5	5	9	7	5	7	6	6	5
Mobility (10 points)	8	7	5	10	9	7	7	6	5	7	4	6	5	8
Weight (15 pieces)	14	13	10	15	12	14	13	8	12	13	12	12	13	10
Storage capacity (15 items)	14	13	12	15	12	14	14	12	13	14	13	13	14	12
Durability (5 points)	2	3	4	1	2	2	2	4	3	3	2	3	1	3
Usability (5 items)	3	3	3	2	3	2	3	3	3	3	3	3	4	2
Specs
item	MONTANE MINIMUS 777 JACKET	Rab Flashpoint Jacket	THE NORTH FACE Climb Very Light Jacket	Berghaus Vapor Light Hyper Shell Jacket	Teton Bros. Breath Jacket	THE NORTH FACE Strike Jacket	MAMMUT DRYTECH FREEFLIGHT JACKET	MILLET W7 50000 ST JKT	MONTANE MINIMUS JACKET	Patagonia Alpine Houdini Jacket	NORRONA bitihorn dri 1 Jacket	OUTDOOR RESEARCH HELIUM HD JACKET	mont-bell versalite jacket	Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Jacket
Weight (actual measurement)	137g(M)	195g(S)	262g(L)	85g(EUS)	221g(M)	129g(M)	162g(S)	306g (UKS)	230g(S)	187g(S)	214g(S)	246g(S)	159g(S)	272g(S)
material	7D PERTEX ShieldⓇ + (3-layer)	Pertex ShieldⓇ + 3-layer fabric	GORE-TEXⓇ C-Knit Backer (3 layers)	Hydrochelle™ Hyper	Polartec Neosell	7D HYVENT Flyweight (3 layers)	Pertex ShieldⓇ + 3-layer fabric	Dry Edge Double Seven 50,000 3 Layers	40D PERTEXⓇ Shield + (2.5-layer)	30D H2No Performance Standard Shell	dri1	30D PertexⓇ Shield + (2.5-layer)	15D Super Hydro Breeze R2.5 Layer	2.5 Layer 40D Dry Q Active Stretch Nylon
Waterproof (mm reference)	20,000	Unpublished	Unpublished	15,000	10,000	20,000	20,000	Unpublished	20,000	10,000~20,000	20,000	20,000	20,000	20,000
Breathability (g/m2/24h reference)	30,000	Unpublished	Unpublished	10,000	Unpublished	40,000	20,000	50,000	20,000	Unpublished	20,000	20,000	15,000	20,000
Layer	3	3	3	2.5	3	3	3	3	2.5	2.5	2.5	2.5	2.5	2.5
pocket	1 (Breast)	1 (Breast)	2 (left and right)	0	1 (Breast)	1 (Breast)	1 (Breast)	2 (left and right)	1 (Breast)	1 (Breast)	2 (left and right)	3 (left, right, chest)	2 (left and right)	3 (left, right, chest)
Pit zip	×	×	×	×	◎	×	×	◯	◯	×	◎	◎	◯	◯
Hood adjustment	△	◎	◎	△	◯	△	△	◯	◎	◯	◯	◯	◯	×
Cuff (sleeve)	Semi-stretched	Velcro	Semi-stretched + Velcro	Stretch	Semi-stretched	Semi-stretched + Velcro	Semi-stretched	Velcro	Velcro	Stretch	Velcro	Velcro	Semi-stretched + Velcro	Velcro
Reflector	◯	×	×	◯	◯	×	◯	×	◯	×	×	×	◯	×
Storage method	pocket	Staff sack	Staff sack	Staff sack	none	Staff sack	Staff sack	Food	Staff sack	pocket	none	pocket	Staff sack	none

Summary of evaluation results - Recommended rainwear by type -

No.1 overall ability

MINIMUS 777 JACKET

MONTANE

39,960 yen

140g (size M)

PertexⓇ Shield + (3 layers)

The following two models achieved the highest overall score based on the evaluation criteria set this time. Although it is a different approach to running or alpine climbing, it has the same approach in that it has high performance that matches each needs, while also achieving the basic defensive ability and ease of use required of rainwear at a high level, and its shrewdness is a major reason for its high praise.

1) MONTANE MINIMUS 777 JACKET

The first MONTANE MINIMUS 777 JACKET is a three-layer material that is soft to the touch, suppleness of the fabric, and breathability, but it also has an incredible weight of 143g, a significantly reduced weight from the previous model. Although the adjustment functions on the hood, sleeves and hem have been omitted to reduce weight, the excellent three-dimensional cutting and flat elastics placed everywhere make it easy to fit your body, and in addition, it reduces slippage and fluttering. Furthermore, details are also made with ease of use, such as a reflector that is safe even at night and a reflector that can be stored in the chest pocket. When it comes to the 3-layer low 100g range the THE NORTH FACE Strike Jacket is a competing spec, but this one was slightly different in terms of wear and ease of use. It is generally considered to be a model optimized for running, but due to its high basic quality, it is also quite suitable for short-term mountain hiking such as trekking and climbing.

2) Rab Flashpoint Jacket

FLASHPOINT JACKET

Rab

38,880 yen

185g

Pertex ShieldⓇ + (3 layers)

Rab Flashpoint Jacket ranked first overall this year, following last year's comparison test. Although the impact this year has faded as much as last year, the three layers, which still offer waterproof and breathable properties and comfort that are never inferior to traditional rainwear, boast an advanced, thorough construction that can withstand harsh environments, including a helmet-compatible, perfectly adjustable hood and a light, lightweight waterproof zipper that boasts perfection that is unrivalled. This season's model has a slimmer silhouette and improved mobility, but (just the feeling) the surface fabric has slightly less clogged, which makes it seem like the waterproof (water-repellent) power has been reduced. This jacket is designed for technical situations such as climbing, but this is also an all-around lightweight rainwear that can be used for all outdoor activities, from hiking to running.

No.1 in cost performance

THE NORTH FACE Strike Jacket

Strike Jacket

THE NORTH FACE

19,440 yen

130g

HYVENTⓇFlyweight (3 layers)

Who could have predicted that rainwear, which is light in the 100g range and comfortable to wear, could be purchased for less than 20,000 yen? The Strike Jacket is a top-class model in this category, while still being able to obtain it at a relatively low price while still being able to get it relatively easily (in fact, many people were spotted at the trail running tournament this May this year). First of all, the newly released unique material, HYVENT?Flyweight, has high breathability and a supple feel in the three layers, and is as comfortable as you would expect. The slim silhouette, compact hood and less crispy outer material reduce stress while running, and the highly sensitive cuffs made of flat rubber and velcro make it easy to prevent rain from entering, and in terms of functionality, there are no areas where we have ever been cut corners. It's certainly perfect for trail running, but it's also not particularly problematic for day hiking and trekking in the summer. This design blends in with the city, so this one piece is incredibly versatile. As a result, it is definitely the No. 1 cost performance this year. The Strike Trail Hoodie has also been released as a more specialized model for running.

No.1 recommended for hiking and trekking

THE NORTH FACE Climb Very Light Jacket

Climb Very Light Jacket

THE NORTH FACE

39,960 yen

250g

GORE-TEXⓇ C-Knit Backer (3 layers)

THE NORTH FACE Climb Very Light Jacket scored the highest score when rating items that are thought to be mainly necessary for mountain climbing (waterproofing, breathability, comfort, durability, usability) from the overall evaluation criteria . C-Knit Backer, a new technology from Gore-Tex, a waterproof and breathable material with excellent reliability, delivers high performance that is undisclosed in terms of waterproofness, despite the fact that it is still Gore-Tex's name. I was particularly impressed by the sustained water repellent and the natural absorption of the lining, which made it less discomfort in the rain. The soft, round knitted knit with a lining is more flexible and comfortable to the touch than any other model. The large helmet-compatible hood allows fine adjustments to suit the size of your head, making it suitable for tough weather. Although the silhouette is slim, it is a little loose in this case, so it does not feel cramped even when wearing an inner layer or something similar.

While many of the latest models are becoming lighter and lighter for running and fast packing, as with this model, there is certainly a need to preserve the comfort, weather resistance and durability needed for mountain climbing, and for such users, this is the best option rather than choosing a lighter model.

No.1 recommended for trail running

Berghaus Vapor Light Hyper Shell Jacket

Vapor Light Hyper Shell Jacket

Berghaus

19,440 yen

85g (Actual measurement of UK S)

Hydrochelle™ Hyper (2.5 layers)

The Berghaus Vapor Light Hyper Shell Jacket was the highest score when rating items that are thought to be mainly necessary for running (waterproofing, breathability, mobility, weight, storage) were extracted from the overall evaluation criteria . For better or worse, it is the most radical model, specialized in "running". The weight of 86g, the storage capacity is smaller than a fist, and the high mobility of both items are the top of all items. Although it is so light that you'll even forget you're wearing it, it can only be amazing because it will play well if it's just normal rain. The specs published regarding breathability are low (10,000g/m2/24h), but the thickness of the fabric makes it seem even higher than the specs intuitively.

My favorite is the texture of this fabric, with little sense of crispness typical of waterproof jackets, making it quiet as if you were wearing a windshell. The shoulders, arms and body are all neat and slender silhouettes that make it easy to move around in, and the wind doesn't flutter, making it an overall experience of unbeatable driving comfort.

However, in exchange for exceptional running suitability, the waterproofness, comfort, durability, and ease of use as a clothing item are all at the lowest level. Of course, manufacturers are not just about making these easy to use from a comprehensive perspective, but rather that this jacket is that it can maximize performance when it comes to lace, such as when it comes to "the best" so if you are using it for that purpose, you should choose this one without hesitation.

Next page: Go to detailed reviews for each item