April showers bring May flowers — but they also trigger the need for high-quality rain gear. From baselayers to parkas, winter layering systems are all about staying warm. Springtime delivers the sweet reprieve of warmer temps, but so too comes the pouring rain.
Now, as the seasons begin to change, pick up one of these reliable rain jackets for a fraction of the full price.
Stellar Rain Jacket Deals
(Photo/Nick Belcaster)
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Feature-rich
- Adaptable
- Price
Cons
- Less intuitive left-hand zipper
- 2.5-layer membrane needs pit zips down for added breathability
We recently tested dozens of rain jackets, and the Rab Downpour Plus 2.0 jacket earned the title of “Best Overall.” It’s a durable shell that offers a fine balance between waterproofing and breathability. Utilizing a trusted Pertex waterproof membrane, this jacket has become our go-to in wet weather.
During our testing of the Downpour Plus 2.0, we wore it in all 50 names for rain in the Pacific Northwest: downpour rain, spitting rain, drizzling rain, misting rain — and we stayed dry in all of them. To understand more of the science behind waterproof ratings, check out the Buyer’s Guide in our Best Rain Jackets article.
However temperamental and unpredictable the weather, the Downpour is ready to adapt and keep you covered.
Right now, certain colors of the men’s Downpour 2.0 are available at REI for $111 — that’s over $80 off of retail.
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Super lightweight
- Stormworthy
- Packs away easily
Cons
- Not very breathable or well-vented
This minimal-yet-effective rain jacket is the perfect ultralight layer to toss in your pack in case a storm rolls in. It sheds water extremely well, and it weighs next to nothing at 5.6 oz. That’s less than a deck of cards.
For multi-pitch climbing, mountain biking, and thru-hiking, a bomber lightweight rainjacket is an essential kit. While the Helium doesn’t have any pit vents or luxury features, it does its one job well — this jacket will keep you dry in the rain. Oddly, OR does not advertise the breathability or water-proof ratings of this jacket. But from many reviews, we know it does have some breathability and is considered waterproof.
Currently, the women’s version of the Helium rain jacket is available for 40% off at REI. For under $100, it’s difficult to find rain gear of this quality.
