Rain Jackets
Just because there’s rain in the forecast doesn’t mean you can’t go for a climb. Having a light and weather resistant jacket in your pack ensures that if the skies do open up, you’re ready to wait it out or bail in comfort.
Mammut Masao Light $450
The Masao is a minimalist jacket that can take on the worst weather. It’s made of lightweight fabric and folds down small in a stuff sack to hide away in your backpack. It’s perfect for alpinists and climbers looking for light, compact protection. The hood has a draw cord so it tightens well around the head. The zipper’s big teeth will still function in icy weather.
Patagonia Ascensionist $625
The Ascensionist is a go-to alpine waterproof jacket with a three-layer Gore-tex shell to keep you protected from rain, wind and even snow. The pit zips provide excellent ventilation. Two of our favourite features are the concealed recco reflector and that it’s fair trade certified sewn. It’s very light and packable, but acts like a heavy-duty shell. The hood adjustments are easy to use and will help you to keep your head dry and warm.
Black Diamond Stormlite Stretch $199
Whether you’re a professional rescue worker or weekend warrior, you’ll love the Stormlite Stretch. Built to keep you protected in the worst weather, the rain shell is stretchy enough to be worn on technical climbs. The sleeves are long and keep you covered on big reaches. The helmet-compatible hood is one of the best on the markets. Recommended for the most demanding climbs.
The North Face Women’s Resolve 2
$120
The North Face has a long history of building amazing jackets and the Resolve 2 might be their best rain jacket on the market. It has a breathable mesh lining and adjustable hood with a low collar. It uses a new longlasting seam sealer called dryvent and thanks to the high hood, it’s extremely comfortable when zipped up all the way. It has a stellar lining that won’t stick to your skin or other layers in a down pour.
Arc’teryx Interstate $600
If you’ve looking for a stylish urban rain jacket, then look no further. The Interstate is windproof, waterproof and breathable. You can use this durable jacket in summer and winter. It works really well with the Arc’teryx Atom jacket thanks to the relax fit. The waterproof zippers are seamed tightly and the c-knit doesn’t sound as crackly as other jackets.
Mountain Hardwear Exposure 2 Paclite Stretch Pullover $320
The Exposure 2 is a lightweight, durable, waterproof rain jacket that will keep you warm on rainy crag days and in full-on downpours. It holds up fantastic in wind and rain. It’s not heavy (paclite) but is wind resistant and cozy with a thicker layer underneath. You might prefer this design to the zip-up for esthetic reasons, but the pocket is perfect for your phone and other gear.
It’s slightly stretchy, which makes it easy to get on and off.
MEC Flash Cloud GTX Women’s $275
The Flash Cloud is a go-anywhere rain jacket that works great on treks and multi-pitch rock climbs. It’s highly breathable and rolls up into its hood to be packed away. The 2.5-layer Gore-tex is thin but quite durable. The fabric is so waterproof that to keep from getting too sweaty you’ll have to use the pit zips. It fits a little baggy so you can layer up. Once again, we love the built-in recco rescue system reflector.—gripped