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.
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table of contents
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
Summary of evaluation results - Recommended rainwear by type -
No.1 overall ability
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
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
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
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
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
Detailed reviews of each item
Waterproof
Since rainwear is gear designed to protect you from the rain, waterproofness is the most basic evaluation point. First of all, all of the items featured here use fabrics with waterproof membranes, have a durable water-repellent finish called DWR (Durable Water Repellent) on the surface, and are designed to prevent water from seeping inside the garment by using highly airtight zippers called waterproof zippers and seam tape applied to the seams. Each manufacturer has also passed product testing in their labs. In that sense, all of the items offer basic weather resistance against rain (and wind as well). Even when standing in a moderate rain for several minutes, the falling rain itself rarely penetrated the fabric and seeped inside, and no significant differences were observed
However, this is not the case when you are hit by a large amount of water, such as during a heavy rain, with force for a long period of time and from various angles
Even in this case, it is unlikely that the water will exceed the water resistance of the fabric and penetrate directly through it, but what is more serious is that water may seep in little by little from various places such as the hood, cuffs, zippers, and pocket edges, or the water-repellent properties of the fabric surface may be lost, causing water to remain on the outer surface and making it difficult for moisture inside the clothing to be expelled, resulting in the body getting wet
When comparing the waterproofness of ultra-lightweight rainwear, which is not as water-resistant as full-fledged rainwear for mountain climbing, this was the point where differences emerged between the items, rather than the specs of the materials used.To compare them, we conducted a test in which we moved our bodies while exposed to strong rain (a shower that simulated that) for a certain period of time
In addition to normal activities in the rain in the field, to recreate heavy rain, the waterproofness was measured by holding a shower head over the head and shaking the face and arms from this position to simulate heavy rain
the THE NORTH FACE Climb Very Light Jacket with a GORE-TEX® C-Knit Backer provided the best waterproofing in the heavy rain . Its reliable water resistance and long-lasting water repellency, airtight zipper and cuffs, large brim, and easy-to-fit hood provide excellent protection from the rain. The Rab Flashpoint Jacket , has changed its material to PERTEX Shield+, but its overall airtightness, including the hood, remains intact. On the other hand, the Berghaus Vaporlite Hypershell Jacket's hood and cuffs absorb moisture, making it prone to seepage, and its small, non-adjustable hood was completely useless in the heavy rain. These jackets should only be used if you plan to descend before the rain gets heavy.
The cuffs' lightness and adjustability are determined by the intended use. If you're mainly running, elastic cuffs (the four on the left) that don't require adjustment are fine, but there's a risk that the elastic will break or wear out. On the other hand, if you're planning on hard, technical use, Velcro-only cuffs are safer because they open and close widely and are less likely to break
Breathability (ventilation performance)
For ultra-lightweight rainwear, which is likely to be used in the summer or during intense exercise, it is particularly important that it keeps the body dry (comfortable) when sweating or in humid conditions
However, "breathability" here does not simply mean the strict moisture (water vapor or water molecules) permeability of the fabric, as expressed in a certain numerical value. While this is a very important evaluation point, waterproof and breathable jackets can also keep the body dry and expel moisture from inside the garment through other means, such as sweat absorption (moisture absorption) by the lining and ventilation through zippers under the armpits. From the user's perspective, the breathability and ventilation performance of clothing must be evaluated taking these factors into account
was the Teton Bros. Breath Jacket, which uses Polartec Neoshell, which has outstanding breathability, and also has excellent sweat-wicking properties thanks to its ventilation and lining. the MILLET W7 50000 ST JKT , which uses a highly breathable 3-layer material that makes it comfortable regardless of what you wear underneath THE NORTH FACE Strike Jacket , MONTANE MINIMUS 777 JACKET, and THE NORTH FACE Climb Very Light Jacket, all of which are among the most comfortable jackets available.
Also, although the fabric is 2.5 layers and the specs aren't outstanding, the NORRONA bitihorn dri 1 Jacket , with its huge pit zips providing excellent ventilation, is hard to beat in terms of overall comfort.
There are various ventilation methods. From the left, there is a large underarm zipper, a small underarm zipper, underarm air vents, and a double zipper on the front. The zipper affects weight and packability, but allows for dynamic ventilation, so each has its own advantages and disadvantages
Comfort and mobility
The models selected this time were a fairly wide range of candidates for comparison, ranging from general mountain climbing to extreme running. Therefore, even though we are talking about comfort, the required comfort varies depending on the intended activity and the clothing worn underneath. For this reason, the method of evaluating comfort has changed significantly since this year's test
The first is the simple feel of the garment against the skin, the lack of tightness, the fit of the cuffs, the fit around the mouth, and other elements that are primarily necessary when walking in rain gear, and these were evaluated as "comfort." The other is the comfort desired when running, such as the lack of flapping of the garment during vigorous movement, ease of movement due to its stretch, the reduction of clothing shifting when swinging the arms, and the lack of rustling noise, and these were evaluated separately as "mobility."
As a result, we found that THE NORTH FACE Climb Very Light Jacket . The knitted lining was extremely comfortable, and the slightly loose cut (top left in the photo below) meant that wearing a mid-layer underneath was comfortable. The hood and cuffs were also well made, as mentioned above. The Rab Flashpoint Jacket had excellent three-dimensional cutting, and despite its slim silhouette (bottom left in the photo below), it provided a more natural fit and ease of movement than expected.
In terms of mobility for running, THE NORTH FACE Strike Jacket and Berghaus Vaporlite Hypershell Jacket are head and shoulders above the rest. As you can see from the photos above (top and bottom right), the jackets are tight enough to be worn under light clothing, preventing flapping, and thanks to the characteristics of the material, you won't be bothered by the sound of the clothing rubbing against each other while you're moving.
weight
Every year I'm amazed at how incredibly light new products are, but this time it's the Berghaus Vaporlite Hypershell Jacket , weighing just 86g (measured in a size small). To give you an idea of how light this is, see the photo below. A packet of instant noodles weighs about 100g, so it might be easier to understand if you imagine it as being lighter than that (?). Basically, models weighing around 100g are so light that they're so comfortable you don't even feel like you're wearing clothes.
However, in exchange for lightness, you must be prepared to sacrifice durability and other aspects, so if you want to use it safely on a variety of terrains, such as hiking, it would be wise to aim for a bag weighing around 200g or more
The lightest bag weighed just 86g, less than the weight of a packet of instant noodles (100g). However, since it is designed for short distances and races, a model that weighs about the weight of three packets would be preferable for mountain climbing
Storageability
Packing size is closely related to weight, but the easiest way to gauge this is to look at the packing results (photo below). Incidentally, the models without stuff sacks (⑤, ⑧, ⑪) are simply rolled up and wrapped in the hood, so they're not necessarily fully compressed. Including these, the models with the best packability were the ③ Berghaus Vaporlite Hypershell Jacket, ⑦ Patagonia Alpine Houdini Jacket, ⑨ MONTANE MINIMUS 777 JACKET, and ⑭ THE NORTH FACE Strike Jacket . It's becoming commonplace for these jackets to be smaller than a clenched fist.
①MILLET W7 50000 ST JKT ②MAMMUT DRYTECH FREEFLIGHT JACKET ③Berghaus Vaporlite Hypershell Jacket ④MONTANE MINIMUS JACKET ⑤Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Jacket ⑥OUTDOOR RESEARCH HELIUM HD JACKET ⑦Patagonia Alpine Houdini Jacket ⑧⑨MONTANE MINIMUS 777 JACKET ⑩Rab Flaspoint Jacket ⑪NORRONA bitihorn dri 1 Jacket ⑫mont-bell Versalite Jacket ⑬THE NORTH FACE Strike Jacket ⑭THE NORTH FACE Strike Jacket
Durability
Unfortunately, it is not possible to provide an in-depth and accurate assessment of durability here, as it is not realistic to use the product for a long period of time or to test its strength to its limits. For this reason, we can only speculate on aspects such as friction and tear resistance based on the thickness and weight of the fabric and our impressions after several trial tests. However, we have added these as evaluation items, as we felt it would be inappropriate to not mention them at all
So, the bare minimum is that, if the entire fabric is made of the same material, the thicker the fabric (the higher the denier), the more durable it should be. Furthermore, at least with a thin 2.5-layer outer layer, strength relies solely on the surface, and the lining is only coated, making it vulnerable to friction and therefore at a disadvantage in terms of durability. In that sense, the Berghaus Vaporlite Hypershell Jacket and the Mont-Bell Versalite Jacket are relatively unreliable in terms of strength, not just in appearance but also in theory.
On the other hand, with a 3-layer garment, not only does the lining at least prevent degradation of the membrane due to friction, but the increased overall thickness of the garment also makes it relatively stronger, giving it an advantage in terms of durability compared to a 2.5-layer garment. In reality, the strength may also vary depending on the weave and tightness of the fibers (sewing technique?), but this is something the manufacturer hasn't disclosed, so it's hard to say. Taking this into account, and based on my impressions of using them, the THE NORTH FACE Climb Very Light Jacket and MILLET W7 50000 ST JKT are 3-layer garments that use sturdy fabric and are highly rated for their durability among ultra-lightweight rainwear.
Easy to use
In order to avoid making evaluations based on impressions as much as possible, we have focused on the following five points as the main evaluation points
- Number and location of pockets
- Ease of opening and closing the zipper
- Easy to adjust hood, cuffs and hem
- Presence or absence of night reflectors (reflective marks)
- Ease of packing (stuff sack, packable design, etc.)
the Mont-Bell Versalite Jacket has it all the Montane Minimus Jacket which received high marks in last year's test, is also top-class in terms of usability, with a large chest pocket, easy-to-use zippers, an adjustable hood, reflectors, and a stuff sack included.
If the hood is not adjustable, it may obstruct your field of vision if it does not fit your head properly, which can be uncomfortable and dangerous. Usability can be greatly affected by whether or not there is a drawcord at the back of the head that securely adjusts and secures the hood, and whether or not there is a function to adjust the height of the hood at the front of the chin (not shown in the photo)
summary
So, this year too, we've compared a wide range of ultra-lightweight rainwear, with each brand competing fiercely for supremacy. We hope you've all found your favorite piece
Honestly, choosing the best rainwear for you is no easy task. We have tried to explain the various and complex comparison factors as clearly as possible, so that this comparison will be of some help to you in choosing rainwear. However, there may have been some areas where our own preferences were involved, or where the testing was insufficient due to physical constraints. We would like to continue improving this, so please let us know if you have any comments or requests
We also recommend this article about rainwear.
- Check out the types of rainwear and how to choose them before purchasing
- Rainwear for mountaineering that you can't miss this season [for hiking and trekking]
- Ultra-lightweight rainwear that you won't miss this season [for trail running and fast packing]
- Comparison review: Which rainwear you should have if you're going to climb? ?


