You need the best rain jackets for hiking in 2023 to remain dry in light or heavy rain. Since rain jackets are made from impermeable material, they also do a decent job blocking the wind.
Rain jackets come in different forms, and you may need some in-depth to pick the right item for your needs.
Having a rain jacket in your backpack is necessary even when you have checked the weather forecast prior.
We have made this process more manageable by giving you the qualities you should look out for when shopping for a rain jacket and a few options you can choose from.
Qualities of the Best Rain Jackets for Hiking 2023
Lightweight
A lightweight rain jacket is comfortable
Weight is a big deal for any hiking gear, whether a camping tent, backpack, or hiking boots. The best rain jacket should not add too much extra weight on you, irrespective of whether you are going on a day or long-distance hike.
The type of material contributes to the weight of the raincoat, and the best options are leather, PVC, or rubber. The inner lining and filling, if any, add some weight to the jacket but are necessary for comfort and extra warmth.
Breathability
Long-distance hikers go for breathable rain jackets
The main difference between an ordinary raincoat and a hiking rain jacket is the latter must be breathable. You will sweat a lot when hiking, even in the cold season, and without an outlet, the accumulated moisture will cause discomfort.
A breathable rain jacket will transfer moisture produced by the body to the outside, leaving you dry. This feature is a priority for outdoor wear manufacturers, and they keep adopting new technology to increase its effectiveness.
The best material for a rain jacket will effectively let out moisture and block rain from sipping through.
Ventilation zips are also effective in improving the breathability of the rain jacket. These are openings under the arms or on the chest that you can unzip occasionally to increase air circulation.
Tear-proof
A sturdy rain jacket can survive a harsh environment
The best rain jacket for hiking in 2023 must be tear-proof. These jackets are made from good quality materials that cannot tear or rip easily. They are durable enough to withstand long treks on the trails.
The hiking trails pass through forested areas with hanging twigs and branches. While you can use your hiking cane to clear the way, it is not 100% effective, and the twigs can easily rip your jacket if it is poor quality.
A ripped-off rain jacket will not keep you dry as the rain drops will get in through the tear.
Packable
Most rain jackets pack down into a small package
The best rain jacket must be lightweight and portable for the sake of the times that you will not have it on. You will need to carry it around without adding more weight or luggage.
A packable rain jacket folds into itself or fits into a small bag for easy storage. Since the weather in the wild can be unpredictable, you may need to bring a rain jacket even when there is no sign of rain since it could also protect you from the morning precipitation.
Packable jackets are made from light materials and are best for emergencies. If you are sure you will walk on a rainy trail, you can have better quality jackets that you can wear all day.
Price
Get a rain jacket that you can afford
Rain jackets come in a wide price range dictated by several factors. Quality is the first determinant since rain jackets that last longer are more costly. There are also factors such as waterproofing rating, number of layers, and inner and outer materials.
The weather is a critical factor when budgeting for a rain jacket. If hiking in rainy weather or during winter, you must invest in the best rain jacket, which costs more.
You still need a rain jacket in your backpack when hiking on a warm day in case it starts drizzling. This can be a simple but functional jacket that is a bit cheaper than the former.
There is also the aspect of what you can afford to have at a particular time since you cannot spend money on a rain jacket at the expense of food or other essential supplies.
Length
Hip-length rain jackets are the most comfortable
The length of the rain jacket is the other critical feature that you must consider since, in the event of rainfall, only the covered areas will remain dry. Rain jackets come in different lengths, including full size.
While long rain jackets will give you full protection from the rain, they are not the best for long treks since they interfere with your movement.
The best option is a standard-length rain jacket (hip length) that you can pair with waterproof pants to cover the rest of the body, especially if you are hiking in rainy weather and you intend to keep on walking in the rain.
Sealed Seam
Taped seam improves the waterproof quality of the rain jacket
The weakest point in any clothing item is the seam which can compromise the best qualities. In the case of a rain jacket, the jacket could be 100% waterproof but still leak through the seams, leaving you wet.
The best raincoats have sealed seams, which are sealed using waterproof tape on the inner side after sewing. If the waterproof tape is missing, you will not remain dry for long, especially if the rain is torrential.
High-quality fabric
The best rain jackets for hiking are made from durable fabric
Technology around the material used in rain jackets has evolved over the years to give us the best durable fabrics.
Some rain jackets are made from rubber, durable and waterproof but might be too heavy to wear while walking long distances and too costly.
Alternatively, manufacturers use a fabric coated in PU or PVR rubber to make affordable good quality rain jackets. Rubber is not breathable, which means you cannot have the jacket on for extended periods while hiking.
Nylon and polyester are also standard fabrics in making rain jackets because they are lightweight and do not absorb water as fast.
Hooded
Hooded rain jackets will prevent your eyes from getting rained on
You could have the best rain jacket but still get wet in the rain if the hood is not functional. In most cases, the rain will be accompanied by strong winds, and if your hood is not well attached, you will struggle to keep it in place.
One of the qualities of a functional hood is drawstrings which you pull to tighten the hood and prevent it from being blown away by strong winds.
The other critical quality is a peak you can pull over your face to shelter the face area from the rain. The peak will also prevent water from getting to your glasses if you wear them.
Product Reviews
Marmot Men’s PreCip Jacket
MARMOT Men’s PreCip Jacket | Lightweight, Waterproof
This jacket is one of the best rain jackets for hiking in 2023 because it is lightweight and waterproof. It comes in different sizes and colors to accommodate different body sizes and preferences. The material is 100% nylon with a zipper enclosure to keep you warm on the trail.
Columbia Men’s Glennaker Rain Jacket
Columbia Men's Glennaker Rain Jacket
This jacket is fantastic, and while it is labeled as men's wear, it can also be worn by females. It comes in more than twenty colors and more than ten different sizes. Everyone can find something in this brand. The zipper closure ensures you remain warm and dry when hiking in rainy conditions.
Helly Hansen Men’s Seven J Rain Jacket
Helly Hansen Men's Seven J Waterproof, Windproof, and Breathable Rain Jacket with Hood
This fantastic rain jacket comes in over twenty-five colors and sizes that fit everyone. It is made from 100% polyester, which should only be hand washed to maintain its fantastic quality. This versatile rain jacket is ideal for hiking, winter camping, mountaineering, and other outdoor activities.
Zhenwei Women’s Lightweight Hooded Rain Jacket
ZHENWEI Womens Lightweight Hooded Waterproof Active Outdoor Rain Jacket S-XXL
This hooded rain jacket is made explicitly for women, but men too can wear it as it comes in twenty different colors and a wide range of sizes. The outer material combines 98% Polyester and 2% Spandex while the lining is pure polyester.
Moerdeng Men’s Waterproof Rain Jacket
MOERDENG Men's Waterproof Rain Jacket Outdoor Lightweight Softshell Raincoat for Hiking Travel
Anyone can wear this jacket despite being labeled 'a men's jacket'. It comes in seven shades and five different sizes. Most people will find their fit here and enjoy this fantastic soft-shell raincoat. The material is high-quality, 100% polyester, perfect for harsh conditions on hiking trails.
Conclusion
In conclusion, many rain jackets in the market qualify as the best rain jackets for hiking in 2023. Our recommendations are based on experience and testing to ascertain their durability, value, and performance.
From the list above, our best pick is Moerdeng Men’s Waterproof Rain Jacket, a waterproof, windproof, and breathable rain jacket. It ticks almost all the boxes and is versatile enough to be worn even at home when jogging or walking.
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