Lightweight Waterproof Jackets

Lightweight waterproof jackets are an essential piece of outdoor gear for anyone who enjoys hiking, walking, or spending time in nature. These jackets protect from the elements while remaining breathable and comfortable to wear. They are designed to be lightweight and packable, making them easy to carry in a backpack or daypack. Lightweight waterproof jackets come in a variety of styles and designs, from minimalist shells to feature-rich jackets with multiple pockets and adjustable hoods.

The key to a good lightweight waterproof jacket is the fabric. Most jackets use a waterproof-breathable membrane such as Gore-Tex or eVent, which allows moisture vapour to escape while keeping water out. The outer fabric is typically treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating to help shed water and prevent saturation. Lightweight waterproof jackets also often feature taped seams to prevent water from seeping through the stitching.

When choosing a lightweight waterproof jacket, it's important to consider the intended use. For high-intensity activities like trail running or fast-paced hiking, a minimalist shell with excellent breathability is ideal. For more casual use or slower-paced activities, a jacket with more features like multiple pockets and adjustable cuffs may be preferred. It's also important to consider fit, as a well-fitting jacket will provide better protection and comfort.

Weight is a defining characteristic of lightweight waterproof jackets. Keeping overall mass down is critical for minimising the burden when carrying these jackets on hikes, climbs, or other outdoor pursuits. The lighter the jacket, the smaller it can pack down for easier portability.

• Under 250g — Jackets under 250 grams are considered ultra-light. They use thin yet rugged shell fabrics like Pertex Shield to minimise heft. At under 8 ounces, these jackets pack down incredibly small into pockets or hip belts. Their low weight makes them ideal for mountain activities where every gram matters. They are the ultimate choice for fast and light alpine pursuits like peak bagging.

• 250g to 400g — Mid-weight jackets in the range of 250 to 400 grams offer a highly versatile balance. Lighter than most rain jackets, they are substantial enough to provide reliable weather protection. Athletic fits work well for active pursuits like hiking, climbing, and backpacking without excess bulk. They offer plenty of breathability too. These are great open trail shells that won't weigh you down.

• Over 400g — Heavier jackets over 400 grams use more durable face fabrics that improve weather resistance and ruggedness. These include burly options like Gore-Tex Pro designed for extreme mountain use. The added weight provides boosts in tear strength, abrasion resistance and longevity. Breathability sees an uptick with improved venting. The overall durability makes them suitable when off-trail scrambling or bushwhacking.

There are several types of lightweight waterproof jackets available, each designed for specific activities and conditions. Here are some of the most common types:

These ultralight jackets prioritize low weight and packability above all else. Minimalist shells often weigh an impressively low 100-200 grams, making them ideal for fast and light pursuits where every gram counts. They achieve this exceptional lightweight by using thin, waterproof-breathable fabrics like Gore-Tex Paclite Plus or Pertex Shield and cutting out any non-essential features. The designs are streamlined with minimal pockets, zippers and adjustments to shave off precious grams. However, this pared-down approach doesn't compromise performance. Minimalist shells are built to provide reliable wind and waterproofing along with high breathability for intense activities like trail running, speed hiking, mountain biking or climbing. The lightweight fabrics release excess heat and moisture, preventing the clammy feeling of many standard hardshells. When the clouds part, minimalist shells compress into tiny packages that take up minimal space in a running vest or pack. They are the ultimate emergency layer to deploy when needed without weighing you down the rest of the time. Some top minimalist shells include the Rab Phantom Pull-On (90g), Montane Podium (77g), and Berghaus Hyper 100 (97g). While lacking in features, these jackets more than make up for them in weight savings for those who move fast and light in the mountains.

Hiking-focused waterproof jackets bridge the gap between minimalist shells and fully-featured mountaineering jackets. They balance reasonable weight, packability and weather protection with greater comfort and practicality for the needs of hikers. Hiking shells typically include useful features stripped from minimalist designs like hand pockets, adjustable hems/hoods, and pit zips for ventilation. The fabrics also tend to be slightly thicker and more durable than the ultralight variety. The extra features and durable construction do add some weight compared to minimalist shells, with most hiking jackets falling in the 300-500g range. However, this is still very lightweight overall and the added functionality is well worth it for many hikers. Hiking jackets are an excellent choice for day hikes, weekend backpacking trips, or general wet weather use when you want a comfortable, protective shell without excess weight. They have enough features to wear all day in varied conditions. Some popular hiking jacket models are the Rab Downpour Eco (for men and women) and Patagonia Rainshadow. With waterproof-breathable fabrics, practical features, and reasonable weights, they are reliable companions for rainy days on the trail.

 For the harshest alpine conditions and extended expeditions, mountaineering shells provide the toughest protection. These jackets use the most durable and high-performance waterproof-breathable fabrics available like Gore-Tex Pro, NeoShell, or eVent. The face fabrics have a higher denier and are often reinforced in high-wear areas like the shoulders and elbows to withstand abrasion from pack straps and rock. Mountaineering jackets are built to handle driving rain, snow, and high winds while still offering breathable comfort during strenuous climbing. To meet the demands of alpinists, mountaineering shells include technical features like helmet-compatible hoods, two-way front zippers for harness access, and high hand pockets that won't interfere with a hip belt. They are designed to integrate with climbing equipment. The bombproof protection and alpinist-oriented feature set do result in higher weights compared to minimalist and hiking shells. Most mountaineering jackets weigh in the 400-600g+ range. However, this is a necessary tradeoff for their supreme durability and weather resistance in extreme environments. Top mountaineering shell options include the Arc'teryx Alpha AR, Mountain Equipment Lhotse, and Mammut Nordwand. For serious alpine pursuits in formidable conditions, a sturdy mountaineering shell is essential.

Trail runners and ultramarathoners have unique demands for waterproof shells. Running jackets need to be extremely lightweight and breathable to prevent overheating during high-output running. At the same time, they must offer reliable wind and water protection from the elements. To balance these needs, running jackets use thin, highly breathable waterproof fabrics like Gore-Tex Shakedry or Pertex Shield. The designs are athletically cut with minimal flapping fabric that could slow you down. Many have reflective logos or trims for nighttime visibility. Running shells typically have few pockets or adjustments to save weight, but the hoods are well-designed to stay put at speed. They pack down extremely small to stow in a running vest when not needed. Weights are in the 100-200g range, similar to minimalist shells. However, running jackets prioritise breathability and athletic fit over pure weight savings. The fabrics are selected to manage moisture during high-exertion running.

When choosing a lightweight waterproof jacket, there are several key features to consider:

• Waterproofing — The most important feature of a waterproof jacket is, of course, its ability to keep you dry. Look for jackets with a waterproof-breathable membrane like Gore-Tex or eVent, and make sure the seams are taped to prevent leaks. A durable water-repellent (DWR) coating on the outer fabric will help shed water and prevent saturation.

• Breathability — Breathability is important to prevent overheating and moisture buildup inside the jacket. Look for jackets with high breathability ratings, typically measured in grams of water vapour per square meter per 24 hours (g/m2/24hrs). The higher the number, the more breathable the jacket.

• Weight — Lightweight jackets are designed to be as light as possible, typically weighing less than 400 grams. However, lighter jackets often sacrifice features and durability, so it's important to find a balance that works for your needs.

• Packability — Lightweight jackets should be easy to pack down small and store in a backpack or daypack. Look for jackets that come with a stuff sack or can be packed into their pocket.

• Hood — A well-designed hood is essential for keeping your head and face dry in wet conditions. Look for hoods that are adjustable and have a stiff brim to keep rain off your face. Some jackets have helmet-compatible hoods for climbing or cycling.

• Zippers — Water-resistant zippers are important to prevent leaks. Look for jackets with YKK AquaGuard or similar zippers, which have a polyurethane coating to repel water. Two-way zippers can be useful for ventilation or accessing a harness.

• Pockets — Pockets are useful for storing essentials like maps, snacks, or a phone. Look for jackets with water-resistant zippers on the pockets to keep your items dry. Chest pockets are often easier to access while wearing a backpack.

• Adjustability — Adjustable cuffs, hems, and hoods allow you to customise the fit of the jacket and seal out drafts. Look for jackets with velcro or elastic adjustments that are easy to use with gloves on.

The materials used in lightweight waterproof jackets are key to their performance. Here are some of the most common materials used:

• Gore-Tex — Gore-Tex is a well-known waterproof-breathable membrane that is used in many high-end outdoor jackets. It consists of a thin, porous fluoropolymer membrane that is bonded to a fabric. The pores in the membrane are small enough to prevent water droplets from passing through, but large enough to allow water vapor to escape. Gore-Tex is known for its durability and reliable performance in wet conditions.

• eVent — eVent is another waterproof-breathable membrane that is similar to Gore-Tex. It uses a slightly different technology that allows for more direct venting of moisture vapour, which can improve breathability in some conditions. eVent is often used in jackets designed for high-intensity activities like trail running or cycling.

• Pertex —  Pertex is a family of lightweight, breathable fabrics that are often used in minimalist shells. Pertex fabrics are typically treated with a DWR coating to repel water but do not have a waterproof membrane. They are highly breathable and packable, making them a good choice for fast and light activities.

• Ripstop Nylon —  Ripstop nylon is a lightweight, durable fabric that is often used in outdoor gear. It has a distinctive grid pattern that helps prevent tears from spreading. Ripstop nylon is often treated with a DWR coating to repel water but does not have a waterproof membrane.

• Polyester — Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is often used in outdoor clothing due to its durability and quick-drying properties. It is often used as the face fabric in waterproof jackets, with a waterproof-breathable membrane bonded to the inside.

For backpacking, you want to prioritise jackets that offer the best combination of lightweight, packability, waterproofing and breathability. Rab, Arc'teryx, Mountain Equipment and Montane seem to have some of the top options based on expert reviews, with their use of high-end fabrics like Gore-Tex and Pertex Shield is very lightweight

• Rab Phantom Waterproof Pull-On for men and women —  An ultralight waterproof jacket weighing only 90g, made with Pertex Shield 2.5L fabric. The minimalist design is ideal for fast and light backpacking trips where every gram counts.

• Arc'teryx Beta Lightweight Jacket for men and women  —  A versatile and well-balanced lightweight option in terms of weight, packability, weather protection, breathability and comfort. Uses 3L Gore-Tex with a C-Knit backer and recycled face fabrics, making it durable enough for backpacking.

• Mountain Equipment Garwhal for men and women — Rated highly by experts for its combination of lightweight design and reliable waterproofing using Gore-Tex Pro Most Breathable fabric. A great all-around option for backpacking.

• Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket for men and women  — Provides reliable weather protection, comfort, and durability in a reasonably lightweight package, making it a solid choice for multi-day backpacking trips according to expert reviews.