Rain Jackets

Late winter and early spring offer some excellent early-season rock climbing at south-facing exposed crags. You’ll want to pack a few layers, including a rain jacket. Here are some of the top choices for 2021.

Mountain Hardwear Ozonic $250

Whether you’re hiking, backpacking, approaching a climb or high on a route, the Ozonic will keep you covered. Rugged and light, it gives great stretch on difficult dynamic movements. It uses abrasion-resistant fabric, has big pit vents, an easy-to-use hood cinch system, two hand and one chest pocket (where it can pack into) and comes in at around 315 grams. A great option for spring afternoons at the local crag or multipitch rock climbs this summer.

Arc’teryx Beta LT $600

The Beta LT is Arc’teryx’s newest lightweight all-mountain shell constructed with breathable Gore-tex and built to last. It’s very minimal, which will make many climbers happy when try it. The zippers are watertight, and it has pit zips, adjustable cuffs, a hem adjuster and solid hood. Recommended for multi-pitch rock climbers, warm alpine days and crag sessions if the weather looks iffy.

The North Face Men’s Dryzzle Futurelight Jacket $280

Futurelight has become one of the top lines for climbers serious about going hard. The Dryzzle is the must-have rain jacket in the Futurelight series. It’s durable, has sturdy zippers, is made with a new nano technology that makes it super breathable and is extremely comfortable. The ultra thin layer will keep you dry in light rain and warm on windy summer days. We loved the nice sized chest pocket and big hood. It comes in five colours. Recommended for crag climbers and urban commuters this spring.

Patagonia Women’s Rainshadow $250

The Rainshadow is a must-have, warm-day jacket that will keep you dry and protect you from windy conditions. The lightweight layer is stretchy for unrestricted mobility and can endure full days in wet weather without giving into the elements. It packs down, will fit over a light insulated coat and looks great when going from work to the gym. It comes in four eye-catching colours. A top choice for the rain jacket that you bring everywhere.

Mammut Convey Tour Jacket $280

As a high-quality backcountry jacket, the Convey Tour offers good protection against heavy weather. It’s waterproof, windproof and very breathable. The material gives that hard shell durability but makes it feel quite light and packable. It’s easy to pair it with other, heavier layers thanks to the slightly baggy build. The seams and stitching are top-notch. The fabric feels very smooth on the skin. It comes in five stylish colours. A top option for long approaches into multi-day climbs or rest-day scrambles.

RAB Women’s Downpour Plus $200

This outstanding rab rain jacket is made with extreme comfort and practicality in mind for the active climber. It has a helmet-compatible hood, fleece-lined chin guard, Velcro-adjustable cuffs and a hem drawcord that keeps a secure and comfortable fit. The left pocket doubles as a stuff sack, so it’s easy to pack and keep in the bottom of your bag. Crafted to keep you dry in those light showers that creep in and leave quickly. Recommended for crag climbers, boulderers and scramblers heading out for the day.—gripped