Looking for Inexpensive(ish) Rain Jacket

Wanderlusty

Wanderlusty

Explorer
Have a hike planned this weekend, and almost ashamed to say that I don't already have a good rain jacket already...but I don't.

Anyway, forecast calling for some rain, but the trip is still on.

Can anyone reccomend a good rain jacket in probably the $50-$80 price range that is reasonably breathable and waterproof, and lightweight?

The temps will still be in the 60-80 degree range, so especially during the height of the day it will be on the warmer side, so would like something that doesn't get too hot in warmer weather.

Does anyone have experience with any of these?

http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/The-North-Face-Resolve-Jacket-Mens/TNF0967M.html

http://www.rei.com/product/798135

http://www.rei.com/product/798831

Thanks!
 
ol' scott

ol' scott

Adventurer
Probably stay away from the last one, looks like a cheaper product to fill a niche for folks who need something but don't worry terribly much about quality.

I've always had good experiences with OR and their products, so I'd probably go with that one. Looks like the OR one is teflon coated which in my experience sheds water really well, even after heavy use (still works on my 3 year old, often worn, GoLite jacket).

In my experience with TNF and their water proofed clothing (unless it's Goretex) is that it doesn't retain it's water shedding abilities very long (maybe a year, or 2-3 washes).

The good thing is that both REI and backcountry.com have really good return policies. Also both jackets have a good number of reviews so you might read those and see which one you go with.
 
computeruser

computeruser

Explorer
I picked up a Columbia jacket w/ hood, with their OmniTech waterproof+breathable fabric/design/whatever, for $50 on sale last year at ********'s Sporting Goods. Worked GREAT in some sideways pouring/blowing rain and 30+mph winds we had while camping and exploring last summer. I wear it around town and event to work on casual days when raining. MSRP was $80 or so, as I recall. Well worth it, IMHO.
 
Maddmatt

Maddmatt

Explorer
From a manufacturer's perspective, making something waterproof is cheap and easy, (hefty bag) making something breathable is cheap and easy (mesh jersey) combining the two gets expensive. Often you can find a good compromise by looking for a lower priced garment with pit zips.

That gives the manufacturer a good way to up the waterproof rating cheaply - and they get to say 'mechanical ventilation'.

As for waterproofing wearing out - it happens - but Nikwax works wonders.

From the three you've shown - I agree, that last one is a 'its pouring and I'm stuck in Walmart' solution. Try Sierra Trading post:
http://www.sierratradingpost.com/Product.aspx?baseno=44950&cdf=TopSeller

They don't buy seconds - this one is a Sierra Designs, which I have had great luck with.
 
Wanderlusty

Wanderlusty

Explorer
I ended up getting a Marmot PreCip.

http://marmot.com/products/precip_jacket

A bit pricer than I had originally set out to get, but it had the options I was looking for and was reviewed fairly well. I hope it does the trick. I am pretty sure I could have got one for less, but I am hoping by spending a bit more I will have a good jacket that will stick around for years to come. A bit late for this question, but anyone have impressions on the Marmot?
 
Roktoys84

Roktoys84

Adventurer
I went back and forth on the REI Ultra Light jacket and the Marmot Precip. I ended up getting the Ultra Light and haven't regretted it.
 
MarcFJ60

MarcFJ60

Adventurer
I've had my Marmot Precip for about two years. I've been extremely happy with the performance of it and, as light as it is, I've been happy with the durability of it. It is a great jacket for Summer storms (i.e. very hot and very wet).

The one part of the jacket I don't like is the hood. I don't know if it is designed for wearing over a helmet, but it sucks. It just falls over your face.

But other than that, a big thumbs up.
 
rusty_tlc

rusty_tlc

Explorer
If you can find Grundens they make a great product at a nice price.
I bought mine up in Oregon and haven't seen them locally. Go figure there isn't a lot of selection for rain gear in a desert. :)
 
A

AxeAngel

Expedition Leader
I keep two Sierra designs rain jackets in the bug out bag just in case. Both stuff down to the size of a large apple and even if I never use them they provide good piece of mind at $20 each.

For regular use I use last seasons snowboard jacket. Generally a bit heavier but holds up very well. Wash with tech wash and you are set.

-Sam
 
Wanderlusty

Wanderlusty

Explorer
Fat_Man said:
I ended up getting a Marmot PreCip.

http://marmot.com/products/precip_jacket

A bit pricer than I had originally set out to get, but it had the options I was looking for and was reviewed fairly well. I hope it does the trick. I am pretty sure I could have got one for less, but I am hoping by spending a bit more I will have a good jacket that will stick around for years to come. A bit late for this question, but anyone have impressions on the Marmot?
Click to expand...

Just a little follow up now I have had the jacket for a while. Love it.

Packed it on a hike but never used it. However, have used it several times on my motorcycle over my armored jacket and even in driving rain it has not leaked.

It gets mildly stuffy if the weather is on the warm side, but I think that is kind of hard to avoid.

Thought I would come back and add my experiences for the next person searching for info.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Forum statistics

Threads
188,395
Messages
2,904,135
Members
230,274
Latest member
mbauerus1

Members online

Total: 839 (members: 9, guests: 830)
Top