Comparison Review: Ultra-lightweight Rainwear for Mountain Climbing and Running [Spring/Summer 2016]

Rainwear is said to be one of the essential pieces of equipment for outdoor activities, and there are now many different types available depending on the season and purpose

this in detail in " How to Choose the Best Rainwear " here, but personally speaking, I find myself carrying around less and less traditional heavy and bulky rain gear these days. Instead, I've become indispensable with ultra-lightweight, feather-light, and compact rainwear, which is becoming more and more high-performance, multi-functional, and convenient with each passing year.

Following on from last year, we will be introducing the "Best Lightweight Rainwear" based on the remarkable evolution of ultra-lightweight rainwear weighing less than 300g, where we compare the latest major models from each manufacturer and evaluate them from various perspectives

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

Comparison Review: Which Rainwear is Best for Trail Running? Runners Test It Out in 2018

table of contents

• About the items we compared and tested this time (2016 trends)
• Test Results & Spec Comparison Table
• Summary of evaluation results ~Recommended rainwear by type~
• Detailed review of each item (Page:2)

About the rainwear compared this time (2016 trends)

As the name suggests, the primary feature of ultra-lightweight rainwear is that it is essentially all extremely light and compact. Whereas conventional rainwear weighs around 300-500g for just the outer layer, the items we've picked out here all weigh around 300-100g. While durability makes these items less suitable for use in all-day heavy rain or multi-night mountain hikes, their excellent portability and breathability make them ideal for activities that involve a lot of sweating in mild environments (hot seasons, day trips, low mountains, etc.)

This year, more brands than last year (2015) released their latest models, so we significantly increased the number of test items, including models that were continued from last year. We picked a total of 14 items (for items that have not changed since last year, we tested the models purchased last year)

A major trend in 2016 was that while lightweight models based on the concept of mountaineering rainwear were mainstream up until now, this season saw the emergence of many models designed primarily for trail running. In this comparison, we took this trend into consideration and first made sure that the rankings were not biased by these differences. We also revised the evaluation criteria and content to make it easier for users with a variety of purposes, such as hiking, fastpacking, trail running, and biking, to compare and use the products

Test environment

The ultra-lightweight rainwear was tested over a six-month period, from March to August 2016. All items were tested on low mountains to 2,000-meter-high mountains, with walking and running in both good weather (at least one day of use) and rainy weather (at least one pitch). Other testing was conducted by the author himself, with multiple iterations of the garments being worn and compared in as many different situations as possible. Conversely, testing was not conducted in autumn and winter or on 3,000-meter-high mountains. While rain is not a constant occurrence in the mountains, each garment was tested in the rain, even for short periods of time, with occasional changes. Other testing included heavy rain tests in the shower and comparisons of sweat wicking while running in the city, recreating extreme conditions as closely as possible to practical use

Test Results & 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 Vaporlite Hypershell Jacket	Teton Bros. Breathable 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
Here is ◎	Breathability, mobility, weight, packability, balance	High all-round performance	Waterproof, comfortable and durable	Mobility, weight, and storage	Slim fit, breathability, mobility, and ease of use	Breathability, mobility, weight, packability	Slim fit, mobility, packability, and balance	Waterproof, comfortable and durable	Comfort, balance and ease of use	Mobility, balance, and ease of use	Breathable, comfortable, and easy to use	Storage and balance	Ease of use	Mobility, breathability
Here is △	durability	Nothing in particular	maneuverability, weight	Waterproof, comfortable, durable, and easy to use	durability	Ease of use	durability	maneuverability, weight	mobility	Comfort	Mobility, durability	Nothing in particular	Breathability, mobility, durability	Waterproof, comfortable, lightweight, and easy to 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 points)	14	13	10	15	12	14	13	8	12	13	12	12	13	10
Storage capacity (15 points)	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 points)	3	3	3	2	3	2	3	3	3	3	3	3	4	2
Specifications
item	MONTANE MINIMUS 777 JACKET	Rab Flashpoint Jacket	THE NORTH FACE Climb Very Light Jacket	Berghaus Vaporlite Hypershell Jacket	Teton Bros. Breathable 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)	Hydroshell™ Hyper	Polartec Neoshell	7D HYVENT Flyweight (3 layers)	Pertex ShieldⓇ + 3-layer fabric	Dry Edge Double Seven 50000 3-layer	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	Undisclosed	Undisclosed	15,000	10,000	20,000	20,000	Undisclosed	20,000	10,000~20,000	20,000	20,000	20,000	20,000
Moisture permeability (g/m2/24h reference)	30,000	Undisclosed	Undisclosed	10,000	Undisclosed	40,000	20,000	50,000	20,000	Undisclosed	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 (chest)	1 (chest)	2 (left/right)	0	1 (chest)	1 (chest)	1 (chest)	2 (left/right)	1 (chest)	1 (chest)	2 (left/right)	3 (left/right/chest)	2 (left/right)	3 (left/right/chest)
pit zip	×	×	×	×	◎	×	×	◯	◯	×	◎	◎	◯	◯
Hood adjustment	△	◎	◎	△	◯	△	△	◯	◎	◯	◯	◯	◯	×
Cuff (sleeve)	semi-expandable	Velcro	Semi-elastic + Velcro	Stretch	semi-expandable	Semi-elastic + Velcro	semi-expandable	Velcro	Velcro	Stretch	Velcro	Velcro	Semi-elastic + Velcro	Velcro
Reflector	◯	×	×	◯	◯	×	◯	×	◯	×	×	×	◯	×
Storage method	pocket	stuff sack	stuff sack	stuff sack	none	stuff sack	stuff sack	Food	stuff sack	pocket	none	pocket	stuff sack	none

Summary of evaluation results ~Recommended rainwear by type~

No.1 in overall strength

MINIMUS 777 JACKET

MONTANE

39,960 yen

140g (size M)

PertexⓇ Shield + (3 layers)

The two models below received the highest overall scores based on the evaluation criteria we set this time. Although they have different approaches, one for running and the other for alpine climbing, they have in common the fact that they offer high performance that matches each need, while at the same time providing the basic protection and comfort required of rainwear at a high level, and this ingenuity is a major reason for their high ratings

1) MONTANE MINIMUS 777 JACKET

The first, the MONTANE MINIMUS 777 JACKET , is impressive for its incredibly light weight of just 143g, a significant reduction from the previous model, despite its soft, supple, and breathable 3-layer fabric. While the hood, sleeve, and hem adjustments have been omitted to reduce weight, the excellent 3D cut and elastic placement throughout ensure a comfortable fit and prevent slippage or flapping. Other notable touches include reflectors for safety at night and a convenient chest pocket. While the 3-layer jacket weighs in the low 100g range, the THE NORTH FACE Strike Jacket is a competitor, but in terms of comfort and ease of use, the MONTANE MINIMUS 777 JACKET is slightly superior. While generally considered a model optimized for running, its high basic quality makes it perfectly suitable for short mountain trips like trekking and climbing.

2) Rab Flashpoint Jacket

FLASHPOINT JACKET

Rab

38,880 yen

185g

Pertex ShieldⓇ + (3 layers)

, the Rab Flashpoint Jacket once again took first place overall. While this year's impact has faded, it still rivals traditional rainwear in terms of waterproofness, breathability, and comfort. This three-layer jacket boasts unparalleled quality, boasting advanced, thorough construction that can withstand harsh environments, including a fully adjustable helmet-compatible hood and state-of-the-art waterproof zippers that are easy to operate. This season's model boasts a slimmer body silhouette for improved mobility, but (this is purely my personal experience) the outer fabric is slightly less dense, which feels like a slight decrease in waterproof (water-repellent) performance. While this jacket is designed for technical situations like climbing, it's also a lightweight, all-around rainwear piece that's perfect for a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking to running.

Best value for money

THE NORTH FACE Strike Jacket

Strike Jacket

THE NORTH FACE

19,440 yen

130g

HYVENTⓇFlyweight (3 layers)

Who would have thought that such lightweight, comfortable, three-layer rainwear, weighing in at just under 100g, could be found for under ¥20,000? The Strike Jacket is a top-tier model in its category, offering top-class performance for comfortable trail running while remaining relatively affordable (in fact, many people were spotted wearing it at a trail running event in May this year). First, the newly introduced proprietary HYVENT Flyweight fabric delivers high breathability and the supple feel of a three-layer jacket, delivering the comfort you'd expect. The slim silhouette, compact hood, and soft outer fabric reduce stress while running, while the airtight cuffs with flat elastic and Velcro closures keep out rain. While it's certainly ideal for trail running, it's also perfectly suited to summer day hikes and treks. And with a design that blends seamlessly into urban environments, this jacket's versatility is undeniable. As a result, it's undoubtedly the best value for money this year. The Strike Trail Hoodie has also been released as a more running-specific model.

No.1 recommended spot 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 received the highest score when evaluating items considered primarily important for mountaineering (waterproofness, breathability, comfort, durability, and ease of use) from the overall evaluation criteria. While unpublished figures are available, the C-Knit Backer, a new technology from the highly reliable waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex material, delivers outstanding waterproof performance worthy of the Gore-Tex name. The jacket's durable water-repellent properties and the natural moisture-wicking properties of the lining made it particularly impressive, minimizing discomfort in the rain. The soft circular knit lining is also more supple and comfortable against the skin than any other model. The large, helmet-compatible hood can be finely adjusted to fit any head size, making it suitable for even the most severe weather. While the silhouette is slim, it's also slightly roomier than the other jackets in this selection, allowing you to comfortably wear a mid-layer underneath without feeling cramped.

While many of the latest models are becoming increasingly lighter and more geared towards running and fastpacking, there is certainly a need for a model like this that is only light to a certain extent, but still retains the comfort, weather resistance, and durability needed for mountain climbing, and for such users, this would be the best choice rather than choosing a model that is too light

No.1 recommendation for trail running

Berghaus Vaporlite Hypershell Jacket

Vaporlite Hypershell Jacket

Berghaus

19,440 yen

85g (UK S actual measurement)

Hydroshell™ Hyper (2.5 layers)

When we extracted from the overall evaluation criteria items considered to be primarily important for running (waterproofness, breathability, mobility, weight, and packability), the item that received the highest score was the Berghaus Vaporlite Hypershell Jacket . For better or worse, it's the most extreme model, specifically designed for running. Its weight of 86g, packability smaller than a fist, and high mobility are all tops of all items. Despite being so light you'll forget you're even wearing it, it repels normal rain so well that it's nothing short of amazing. The published specs for breathability are low (10,000g/m2/24h), but the thinness of the fabric makes it feel higher than the specs suggest.

What I like most about this fabric is the texture; it has almost no harshness that is typical of waterproof jackets, and is as quiet as wearing a wind shell. The slim silhouette around the shoulders, arms, and body all allows for excellent freedom of movement, and it doesn't flap in the wind, so overall, you can experience the ultimate in comfort while running

However, in exchange for its outstanding running suitability, its waterproofness, comfort, durability, and ease of use as clothing are all at the lowest level. The manufacturer has probably taken these factors into consideration, and the strength of this jacket is not ease of use from an overall perspective, but rather its ability to maximize performance in crucial situations such as races, so if that's what you're going to use it for, then this is the jacket for you

Next page: Detailed review of each item