The best rain jackets for spring
Rainy or stormy outside? No problem. Don’t use inclement weather as a reason not to go outside, you can sill have a good time out there, particularly if you’re properly dressed and prepared. One of the most important items you can have, especially in the spring, is a proper rain jacket. Read the list of our top ten favourites. Perfect for spring, but great any time of year.
Most of these jackets come in mens and womens versions, with a few exceptions, like the Outdoor Research Foray and the Mountain Hardwear Plasmonic.
Marmot PreCip
Marmot PreCip jacket in the mens version. Image from Marmot.
This jacket is definitely the best buy for rain jackets. This jacket is time tested and has superior breathability and ventilation and is a great for a wide range of outdoor activities. With great breathability, ventilation, great hood and cuff closures, the Marmot PreCip jacket continues to be the top selling rain jacket year after year for good reason.
List Price: $100
Mens and Womens versions? Yes
Patagonia Alpine Houdini
The Patagonia Alpine Houdini in the womens version. Image from Patagonia.
The classic Houdini by Patagonia is a great go-to outer layer that you can take with you anywhere. Now the Alpine version of this jacket, the Alpine Houdini, is even better, providing not only a DWR (durable, water-repellant finish) but is also lightweight and packs into it’s own pocket.
Mens and Womens versions? Yes
List price: $199
Mountain Hardwear Plasmonic Jacket
The Mountain Hardwear Plasmonic jacket. Image from Mountain Hardwear.
The jacket features Mountain Hardwears Dry Q EVAP dry wicking technology. This fabric is great at keeping you dry from the elements but also is effective at wicking moisture. It’s lightweight and great for cool, wet weather. The Mountain Hardwear Plasmonic jacket comes in a mens version only.
List price: $150
Mens and Womens versions? Mens only
Marmot Essence
The Marmot Essence Jacket in mens. Image from Marmot.
The Marmot Essence jacket is exceptionally light, moves very well, and we like the reflective markings on the jacket. Ultra minimalist, this jacket doesn’t have any pockets nor zippers under the arms. Instead, the jacket is ventilated with underarm flaps. Great performance and breathability for high-energy activities.
Mens and Womens versions? Yes
List Price: $200
Cotopaxi Tikal Shell
Cotopaxi Tikal active shell womens version in green. Image from Cotopaxi.
This versatile rain jacket, the Cotopaxi Tikal, is great for the outdoors or for commuting to work. Cotopaxi is also a great organization that donates part of it’s proceeds to poor nations around the world, so you can feel good about buying from Cotopaxi.
List price : $140
Mens and Womens versions? Yes
Outdoor Research Foray
Outdoor Research mens Foray jacket. Image from EMS.
The unique construction of this rain jacket features very large pit vents as well as durable and very breathable Gore-Tex Paclite fabric. This jacket seals out driving rain very effectively and is highly recommended for stormy weather. The ventilation features and breathability mean that the OR Foray jacket is a little bit bulkier and heavier than others in this review.
List price : $215
Mens and Womens versions? Mens only
Rab Firewall
The Rab Firewall jacket. Image from Backcountry.
This newest waterproof shells is the latest in high end shells with exceptional mobility, comfort and breathability. Feels great on and while wearing a pack and a harness. Provides the protection of a hardshell with the breathability of a soft shell, all in one jacket with great mobility. Great for year round use. The Rab Firewall also features a helmet-compatible hood.
List price : $259
Mens and Womens versions? Yes
Patagonia Torrentshell
Patagonia Torrentshell jacket in Sporty Orange. Image from Patagonia.
This comfortable jacket is fully adjustable with hood and hemline drawstrings, plus zippers under the arms for great breathability. It’s highly packable and can be stuffed into it’s own left pocket so you can bring it anywhere. The Patagonia Torrentshell is also one of the only jackets that comes in an impressive selection of colours.
List price : $129
Mens and Womens versions? Yes
Sierra Designs Hurricane
Sierra Designs Hurricane jacket. Image from Backcountry.
This jacket is all about looks, comfort and value. Designed for a minimalist look, Sierra Designs Hurricane has no brightly coloured labels, dangling clasps, and unnecessary velcro to give the jacket a sleek, clean look and minimize weight. Extra lining, particularly the soft lining around the back of the neck provide great comfort. The hood folds flat and tucks neatly behind your backpack for use on the trail.
List Price: $100
Mens and Womens versions? Yes
Columbia Evapouration
The Columbia Evapouration jacket is comfortable, affordable, and great around town or for hiking or backpacking. This rain jacket and will definitely keep you dry, but it’s not as breathable as other jackets. The large mesh pockets give some breathability. It’s light and seals out rain well.
List Price: $100
Mens and Womens versions? Yes
Where to buy
Use our outdoor gear price checker to find the best deal on a rain jacket.
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