Top 5 Rain Jackets Under $200
OutdoorHub Reporters 05.04.18
If you are unprepared, rain can really put a damper on your day. Whether you live in a climate where precipitation is the daily norm, or only see it once a month, you don’t need to let rain keep you indoors. Why not grab yourself a top notch rain jacket so you can stay dry even when it’s wet outside?
If you’re on a budget, here are our picks for the top 5 rain jackets under $200.
Small Update, we’ve actually found a 6th one we’ve added to the list so we’re kicking that one off first as a bonus pick in addition to our Top 5!
BONUS PICK: Black Diamond Equipment Stormline Stretch Rain Shell ($170.00)
Alpine squalls or urban downpours, the StormLine Stretch Rain Shell can handle it all. Featuring our BD.dry waterproof/breathable/windproof solution, which is engineered to shield you from whatever the weather holds, the StormLine is a fully featured rain shell. With DWR-sealed pit zip vents, two zippered hand pockets, and a waterproof center front zipper, the StormLine comes prepared for the wettest conditions but quickly adapts to moderate weather. The StormLine’s underarm gussets and ultra-stretchy fabric add mobility and durability, while the climbing-helmet-compatible hood makes it perfect for on-route escapades when inclement weather rolls in. The StormLine also has an adjustable hem and cuffs for dialing in the fit, and when the sun comes out, the shell stows into the right-hand pocket and clips to a harness or bag with a carabiner clip loop.
This rain shell officially makes the Marmot Minimalist not the most expensive option on this particular list, however, right now you can pick up the Black Diamond Stormline rain shell for $127.50 which is the lowest price we’ve seen it at. The jacket comes in a wide variety of sizes and colors so there’s something to just about any sort of gear setup you already have going on.
1. Marmot Minimalist ($189)
Perfect for getting out on the trail or even just regular daily use, the Marmot Minimalist is a top-notch raincoat in a fashionable cut. Despite the name, it’s actually not the lightest coat, weighing around a pound, but it does have 2.5-lay Gore-Tex Paclite waterproofing that is incredibly reliable. The most expensive jacket on our list, you’ll notice the difference in quality in every detail of this jacket that is anything but minimal when it comes to protecting you from the rain.
2. Outdoor Research Helium II ($159)
Going from a more heavy duty version down to the lightest of the lightweights you can find, this jacket weighs in at just 6.4 oz., but doesn’t lack when it comes to rainproofing. A super light and packable shell, the Outdoor Research Helium II is great for your next hike or climb and will keep you dry with its 2.5-layer Pertex Shield+ waterproofing. It works fine for city life, but this one will really shine out on your next adventure.
3. Patagonia Torrentshell ($129)
Weighing in right in the middle of the previous two at just over 11 ounces, this jacket uses a similar 2.5-layer H2No waterproofing and will pack down small for your adventures. It has an outstanding hood, drawcords for a more customized fit, and a streamlined flap to keep water from seeping through your zipper. The athletic cut and customizability of the Torrentshell makes it great for the wild or in urban environments.
11. The North Face Venture 2 ($99)
Dropping down below $100 on our list, the North Face Venture 2 doesn’t lose much as far as quality despite the lower price point. It also has a 2.5-layer DryVent waterproofing and is great for hiking or daily use. The hood design and zipper quality don’t quite match up to the jackets above, but you’re still getting great bang for your buck here.
13. REI Co-op Essential Rain Jacket ($70)
The least-expensive jacket on our list, The REI Essential Rain Jacket is a great budget option. With a 2.5 layer laminate that holds up pretty well to its more expensive counterparts, this jacket is better suited to daily use rather than out in the wild. The main knock against it is a lack of ventilation, which is why strenuous activity in this one would defeat the purpose of a rain coat since you’d be sweating underneath.
This list should be a good starting point if you are looking to grab yourself a good raincoat this year at a lower price.
