Rain Shells

Whether torrential conditions threaten to drench you or a light drizzle spatters your sunglasses, the right rain shell could add sunshine to an otherwise miserable adventure. Waterproof and breathable fabrics have come a long way—as have fit and fashion—so that rain won’t soak your next adventure.

Venting

Even with the most breathable fabrics, layers can trap body heat and moisture when you’re sweating hard. Instead of completely removing your jacket and exposing yourself to the elements, the option of fully or partially unzipping to vent body heat can make or break a jacket’s rain-protection factor. Before buying, consider your personal perspiration and look for systems that offer practical solutions—two-way zips, underarm zips, and lapel or back-panel vents all balance protection with perspiration.

Zippers

A potential weak-spot for wetness, zippers affect a garment’s weight and level of water resistance. Laser-cut zippers are lightweight and fit so tightly together that wetness can’t permeate the space between teeth, but their exacting fit dissipates with wear so their lifetime as waterproof can be as short as a few years. Traditional coil zippers are heavier, but can also be made waterproof with the addition of sealants, laminated backings or tapes, or storm flaps to shut out the rain.

Fabric

Waterproof? That’s so passé. This is the age of air-permeable waterproofability and moisture management that keeps you dry on the inside and out. And we’re not just talking Gore-Tex. A host of high-quality and proprietary waterproof laminates—Omni-Dry, HyVent DT EC, or PreCip—have raised the bar for water-resistance. These layered laminates are usually backed or sandwiched by nylon and polyester and they all have the goal of cutting down on condensation while still maintaining wind- and water-blocking potential. While you may read results for Moisture Vapor Transmission Rates (MVTR) and Water Vapor Resistance (RET)—standard industry lab tests for breathability and water permeability—keep in mind that the thickness of the base fabrics, construction, fit, and dynamic real-world conditions can all play a part in a garment’s ability to keep you dry.

Fit

An ill-fitting jacket could offset the benefit of sealed seams and waterproof technologies by allowing leaks, reducing the air space required for optimal membrane performance, or hindering your flexibility. A good fit will zip smoothly over base- and mid-layers and give you wiggle room. Expect fewer custom-fit features in ultralight jackets, but in mid-weight or heavy-duty varieties, look for draw cord hems and Velcro cuff tabs to help seal out wind and water, and look for strategically placed stretchy panels that flex with your movement.

Sierra Designs Wicked

The only thing wicked about this 11-ounce rain shell is the weather it’ll withstand. The durable and highly breathable waterproof jacket is constructed of 2-layer polyester rip stop and features a stretch panel across the back plus extra material under the arms. It earns bonus points for pack-friendly pockets that sit above the waistbelt for comfort and easy access. ($149; sierradesigns.com)

Columbia Peak Power Shell

Super breathable but with the downpour-stopping power you need in the backcountry, Columbia’s Omni-Dry polyester is a clear winner when it comes to protection. Laser-cut waterproof zippers, well-placed venting options (including a chest-closure you can use when the jacket’s unzipped), gripping silicone shoulder details that prevent pack straps from wearing, and a full-coverage drop tail enhance protection on the go. ($350; columbia.com)

First Ascent BC-200 Jacket

In this ultralight hardshell, Eddie Bauer’s mountaineering brand streamlined features and incorporated lightweight breathability with welded seams—unusual at this pricepoint—for hardshell protection that tipped our scales just at 9.2 ounces. The durable shell features harness- and pack-friendly pockets with water-resistant zippers, and the integrated hood is large enough to accommodate helmets but also cinches tight when you’re not wearing one. ($199; eddiebauer.com)

The North Face Venture

Castor oil subs as an alternative to petroleum-derived materials in this jacket’s membrane, reducing the synthetic components in the fabric by 50 percent. While the fabric cuts down on environmental impact, this jacket doesn’t skimp on other features: sealed seams, a drawcord-adjustable hood and hem, a chin guard lining, and generous pit zips. ($99; thenorthface.com)

Marmot Storm Shield

Water-shedding comfort—that’s the draw to the Storm Shield. This coat combines fit and comfort-enhancing features such as the elastic draw cord hem and next-to-skin mesh and taffeta lining with waterproofability that’s second to none. Seam taped closures and a double storm flap over the front zipper block moisture to prevent leakage, and Marmot’s PreCip waterproof fabric sheds heavy precipitation plus has a special ceramic-infused weave that makes it extra durable. ($125; marmot.com)

Mountain Hardwear Cohesion Stretch Jacket

With all-over stretch and a helmet-friendly hood that rolls away when you don’t need it, this 12-ounce jacket is almost as flexible as you are. It offers all the standard comforts, such as a chin guard to save you from zipper chafe and a draw cord hem, plus breathable fabric and pit zips for maximum ventilation. Mountain Hardwear offers a coordinating waterproof pant for extreme alpine attempts. ($170; mountainhardwear.com)