Ultra-lightweight rainwear you won't miss this season 2018
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
Rainwear is considered an essential outdoor wear item, and this year there are a ton of new items. Following on from last year, we'd like to take a look at the new items, which are an annual tradition
The models featured this time are mainly new and redesigned models for the Spring/Summer 2018 season. So, if you want to know the entire lineup on sale this year, we last year's introduction article (Ultra-lightweight rainwear 2017 that you can't miss this season) .
As always, the main criteria for selecting items is whether or not I wanted them after actually trying them on in the store. I will now begin the actual comparison review based on this research, so the models mentioned here are literally this season's top contenders. However, even with similar specs, there were some that unfortunately didn't catch my eye due to their appearance or the presence or absence of small details. It all comes down to one person's taste, so please be open-minded when reading opinions that say, "No, no, that's more like it."
table of contents
table of contents
- Topic 1: The evolution of GORE-TEX® ACTIVE is amazing
- Topic 2: Rainwear made of stretchy material with excellent mobility is amazing
- Topic 3: Lightest, Race-Specific, Super Comfortable...Other Models Are Also Amazing
Topic 1: The evolution of GORE-TEX® ACTIVE is amazing
The popularity of more active and lightweight activities such as trail running and speed hiking has been a major trend in recent years, and shows no signs of slowing down. Riding this trend, rainwear has become lighter at an astonishing rate. I feel like I've been saying this for the past few years, but it's become so commonplace that rainwear weighing in at or below 200g is now difficult to determine what constitutes lightweight
However, when it comes to GORE-TEX®, the "KING OF WATERPROOF AND BREATHABLE FABRIC," it can't be denied that it has lagged a little in the lightweight material race. The (old) GORE-TEX® ACTIVE, which has been a product for high-intensity activities, was no longer competitive in terms of weight
GORE® C-KNIT™ backer technology has been introduced to try and make up for this lag , but it has limitations in terms of lightness, and GORE-TEX® SHAKEDRY™ products are not suitable for the general public due to their durability and price. In that sense, it's hard to say that either product has hit the nail on the head for average runners and UL hikers, enough to blow the competition away.
Certainly, it is easy to imagine that it would be difficult to jump on the bandwagon and give up the brand image of "impregnable waterproofness" that has been built up over a long period of time
This giant has finally taken action. That's the evolved GORE-TEX® ACTIVE . To put it very simply, it's like the previous GORE-TEX® ACTIVE, which was designed to maximize breathability, now with a GORE® C-KNIT™ backer technology lining, making it even more breathable, lightweight, and comfortable.
In fact, when C-KNIT was released, I suddenly remembered fantasizing about how it would be the best if it had the breathability of ACTIVE and the comfort of a C-KNIT lining. Now that this dream has become a reality right before my eyes, I'm more than surprised; my jaw is always hanging open
As usual, this year's debut season will see only a limited number of brands releasing the new model, and the prices are still a bit unreliable, but we expect that to settle down in the future. This time, we will introduce two particularly hot models from the lineup
NORRONA bitihorn Gore-Tex Active 2.0 Jacket
Weight ★★☆ Waterproof ★★★ Breathability ★★★ Comfort ★★★ Functionality ★☆☆
NORRONA, a stylish Scandinavian brand known for its many high-spec models that can withstand harsh environments, has completely revamped its lightweight "bitihorn" series this season. This new waterproof jacket, in particular, features the evolved GORE-TEX® ACTIVE technology, achieving exceptional breathability, a superbly comfortable feel, and unprecedented lightness. It's probably the lightest of the several GORE-TEX® ACTIVE models released this year. Plus, there's still no noticeable tightness or lifting of the hem when you lift your arms. Of course, the durability and waterproofness of GORE-TEX® go without saying. After looking at a variety of models, I have to say this is this season's most noteworthy model
Mountain Equipment Impeller Jacket
Weight ★★☆ Waterproof ★★★ Breathability ★★★ Comfort ★★★ Functionality ★☆☆
This is the latest GORE-TEX® ACTIVE rainwear from Mountain Equipment, a British brand also known for its high-end, uncompromising manufacturing. It's also top-class for speedy, lightweight activities, and I personally struggled to choose between this and the bitihorn. What's amazing about this is that the outer layer is made from the "Gore Micro Grid Backer," the same material previously used for the lining of GORE-TEX® PRO and other products, which means it offers even greater breathability and durability. Personally, I chose the top because of how well it fits my body when I put the sleeves on, but you won't regret your choice either way. Absolutely fantastic!
Topic 2: Rainwear made of stretchy material with excellent mobility is amazing
Rain gear is made of stiff, stiff fabric, but that stereotype must be discarded this year. The trend toward lightweight and stretchy rainwear has been around since last season, and this year it's become something you can't miss. Here are three noteworthy stretchy rainwear models
RaidLight Hyperlight MP+ Jacket
Weight ★★★ Waterproof ★☆☆ Breathability ★★☆ Comfort ★★☆ Functionality ★★★
I've had my eye on this jacket since last year (released in 2017), but only recently this year have I realized how amazing it is, so I'm belatedly picking it up. First of all, I was honestly surprised by its light weight of just 115g, thanks to its two-layer construction of a proprietary laminated membrane and outer fabric. It's so thin that you can even see the number on the inside. It's slim and the shoulders and sleeves are very tight, but that doesn't mean it feels uncomfortable when you move your arms, thanks to the stretchy fabric throughout. Other features include reinforced shoulders to compensate for the lack of durability due to the thin fabric, and a design that allows you to see your watch on your left arm while wearing the jacket. It's commendable that the jacket isn't just lightweight, but has also been designed with runners' convenience in mind
MONTANE Minimus Stretch Ultra Jacket
Weight★★☆ Waterproof★★☆ Breathable★★☆ Comfort★★☆ Function★★★
Montane, always eager to take on new technologies, was one of the first to work on making rain jackets stretchy. The Minimus Stretch Ultra Jacket is an even lighter version of last season's Minimus Stretch Jacket, with a design that's been refined for running. While it's classified as part of the VIA Trail series and geared toward trail running, the cut isn't too tight, and it even has two pockets (including a hole for earphone cords), making it suitable for a wide range of running activities beyond just races. Other touches include attention to detail like snap buttons on the chest and hem to prevent the zipper from flapping when fully open, and reflective detailing on the front and back
Black Diamond Fine Line Stretch Rain Shell
Weight ★☆☆ Waterproof ★☆☆ Breathability ★☆☆ Comfort ★★★ Functionality ★★☆
Black Diamond, known for its strengths in climbing and other high-intensity activities, is developing stretchy rainwear at this time, so it makes sense. Despite its slim fit, it's easy to raise your arms, and the three-dimensional cut ensures minimal hemming, making it easy to wear even when wearing a harness. Unlike its running counterpart, the large, helmet-friendly hood with a brim is easy to adjust, and even better, it's packable into the chest pocket. But what's even more impressive is the affordable price. The sleek silhouette and clean look are also quite appealing. However, BD jackets generally tend to be longer and more limited in terms of body type, and the waterproof/breathable specifications aren't particularly impressive, so the price is a consideration
THE NORTH FACE Optimist Jacket
Weight ★★☆ Waterproof ★☆☆ Breathability ★★★ Comfort ★★★ Functionality ★★★
A few seasons ago, THE NORTH FACE pioneered the "3-layer ultralight rainwear" category with its proprietary HYVENT Flyweight fabric. Its popularity seems to have been solid, and each year the range of variations has steadily expanded to accommodate different uses, from hiking to trail running. This season's flagship trail running jacket, the Strike Trail Hoody, is complemented by a new jacket, the Optimist Jacket. While using the same HYVENT Flyweight fabric, the addition of a more stretchy outer fabric gives it a sharp silhouette while allowing for smooth movement. While it seems perfectly suited to high-intensity activities, its convenient two large pockets and included stuff sack, along with other details that aren't overly lightweight, make it suitable for everyday wear.
Next page: "Topic 3: Lightest, Race-Specific, Super Comfortable...Other Models Are Amazing Too"