I’m tired of skipping hikes because I don’t have proper rain gear. I really don’t want to get sick! What do you all recommend for rain jackets and pants?
You should give more details if you want good suggestions. Start with the basics: Are you a man or a woman? What country are you in? What’s your budget? There are so many options for rain gear out there.
@Phoenix
Good point! I’m a man, based in the USA (Florida). My budget is about $200, but I can go higher if it’s worth it.
Peyton said:
@Phoenix
Good point! I’m a man, based in the USA (Florida). My budget is about $200, but I can go higher if it’s worth it.
Is that $200 for the jacket and another $200 for the pants, or $200 for both? Price is a big factor. You can spend anywhere from $50 to over $1000 depending on quality.
For top-tier gear, the Arc’teryx Beta AR line is highly rated, made with Gore-Tex, but it’s pricey (around $1100 for both jacket and pants). Check these out:
On the cheaper side, Frogg Toggs is a classic budget-friendly brand. They’re lightweight but might rip after a few uses. Good for occasional use:
For a good middle ground, look at Marmot or Patagonia options. They’re reliable, breathable, and durable:
Keep in mind that no rain gear is perfect. Even the best waterproof options might make you sweat while hiking. Ventilation features like pit zips are essential to keep cool.
@Phoenix
It’s $200 per piece. Thanks for the detailed info!
I like my Patagonia Torrentshell 3L. They had a sale recently, so I got one for my wife too. She really needed it after having to use a short poncho during a cold rainstorm on our last trip.
Nico said:
I like my Patagonia Torrentshell 3L. They had a sale recently, so I got one for my wife too. She really needed it after having to use a short poncho during a cold rainstorm on our last trip.
I’ve used the Torrentshell 3L in both rain and snow. It’s a solid jacket!
Nico said:
I like my Patagonia Torrentshell 3L. They had a sale recently, so I got one for my wife too. She really needed it after having to use a short poncho during a cold rainstorm on our last trip.
I have the Torrentshell 3L too. It’s comfortable, waterproof, and pretty sturdy. It also looks nice. The only downside is that it’s a bit noisy when walking, but it doesn’t bother me.
Living in Florida, make sure you get rain gear with good ventilation and pit zips to handle the heat.
I use a Rab Firewall jacket, which has excellent waterproofing and a lifetime warranty. For pants, I go with Craghoppers Ascent waterproof trousers, paired with Columbia Outdry boots and waterproof gloves. It’s a reliable setup for staying dry.
@Alston
Thanks! I’ll definitely check those out.
Peyton said:
@Alston
Thanks! I’ll definitely check those out.
The Rab Firewall is worth the price. It’s lightweight, thin, and works in all seasons. You can layer it for winter or just wear it over a t-shirt in warmer months without overheating. The pants are durable and breathable too.
@Alston
That sounds perfect. I’m going to look into it now.
Check out REI’s Rainier line. The jacket is around $100, and the pants are about $70. The pants unzip all the way to the hip and are easy to take on and off over boots. Super convenient!
Parker said:
Check out REI’s Rainier line. The jacket is around $100, and the pants are about $70. The pants unzip all the way to the hip and are easy to take on and off over boots. Super convenient!
That sounds really handy. Thanks!
Columbia has a new version of their OutDry jacket called ‘Reign No Shine.’ It’s got a matte finish, smaller hood, and pit zips. It could be great for humid climates, but I haven’t tried it yet. If anyone has used it, let us know!
@Casey
I’ll look into that. Thanks for the recommendation!
Consider a good poncho. I use a silnylon poncho for hiking and backpacking. It’s lightweight, ventilated, and covers my pack too. I switch to a jacket in winter when I need extra layering.
Bao said:
Consider a good poncho. I use a silnylon poncho for hiking and backpacking. It’s lightweight, ventilated, and covers my pack too. I switch to a jacket in winter when I need extra layering.
Do you use anything to cover your legs?
@Peyton
Not in the summer. I usually wear shorts, and the poncho goes past my knees. Wet feet don’t bother me since I cross streams in my hiking shoes. In colder weather, I wear rain pants, but they’re heavy since they double as hunting gear. For hiking-specific pants, lightweight and breathable options like silnylon are great.