Best men’s rain jackets
Whether we like it or not, inclement weather happens. We’ve all been caught out in a big storm while on an adventure, and there’s not much worse than not having a good reliable rain shell that you can pack when not needed and quickly access when you do, all while trusting that it’s going to keep you dry.
Over the last year or so we’ve been testing rain jackets to find what we like the most, and from there rounding them up here for you. This is a living document as well, since we’ll be adding new jackets as we have the ability to test them and write something we’re proud of.
Here are the jackets we’re currently recommending:
| Jacket | Price | Link |
| Black Diamond Stormline Stretch | $149 | Backcountry link |
| The North Face Venture 2 | $119 | Backcountry link |
Black Diamond Stormline Stretch
The Stormline Stretch rain jacket is the newest addition to my gear quiver. I’d seen it advertised to me for MONTHS on Facebook and Instagram, and finally decided to buy it for a trip to California and Alaska. California isn’t so rainy but Alaska often is, so this seemed like a great time to get it.
Coming in at 11.3oz, the Stormline Stretch is lighter than the TNF Venture 2 by 3oz. This isn’t enough to notice out and about, but every ounce matters.
When you first get the Stormline Stretch, you’ll notice that it is extremely high quality. Every seam is taped, zippers are tight and solid, and it feels extremely light weight. The Stormline is also slightly longer than hip length, which is great because it won’t ride up and let your pants get soaked when you’re still being active in the rain.
I wear a size Medium as a 5’9″ 160lb male with slightly broad shoulders from rock climbing. While I do wish there was a bit more room in the shoulders, it still fits me well when backpacking/hiking. For rock climbing, I might consider a different jacket as this may constrict me too much.
I did wear it as a windbreaker and outer shell on a recent bike ride in California, and it didn’t constrict me at all while riding a mountain bike. So I’d definitely wear it for that:
That said, it is definitely not an insulated layer so I wouldn’t count on it for warmth. I also had a The North Face light layer underneath which I was glad to have. But, it kept me dry and that’s its job. It’s a shell and no more and it fits that slot in my gear quiver well.
What Backcountry says
Whether you’re bouncing from hostel to hostel or hauling your climbing gear home from the crag, you need to pack light. The Black Diamond Men’s Stormline Stretch Rain Shell is the waterproof, windproof layer you need to protect you from the surprise storm that you’ll inevitably get caught in, and it packs down into its pocket to fit easily into your pack. Its BD.Dry technology seals out rain and wind while allowing air to flow to manage moisture inside the jacket. Thanks to the Stormline’s four-way stretch construction and underarm gussets, you’ll have plenty of mobility for scrambling and reaching. The hood fits comfortably with a climbing helmet so you don’t have to throw safety away in order to be protected from the weather.
- Rain jacket for exploring new places in questionable weather
- Waterproof BD.Dry membrane seals out the elements
- Four-way stretch construction for comfortable movement
- Adjustable hem and cuffs for a secure fit
- Underarm gussets let you move freely
- Packs into its pocket for easy storage
The North Face Venture 2
The Venture 2 was my go-to rain jacket for quite a few years. Coming in at 11.6oz, I’ve packed this rain jacket into many backcountry spots and used it in a pinch around Europe while traveling. Mine is TNF Black, which is easy to wear around and even to a fancy-ish dinner when compared with some of their brighter colors.
A few of the features I’ve loved about this jacket include:
- The hood will fit over a helmet, or can be cinched down so it doesn’t come off your head;
- Pit zips allow you to cool off when wearing it on a hot day;
- Waist cinch lets you tighten it down so you don’t feel like you are wearing a trash bag;
- Cuffs velcro down and are easy to adjust.
Some of the areas I’ve been a bit less than pleased are:
- Not all the seams are taped, thus I’ve experienced a few damp spots after a downpour;
- It’s not the lightest jacket out there, so ultralight packers won’t love it;
- After a few years, it shows a lot of wear.
What Backcountry says
The value of a durable, dependable rain and wind shell for hiking and camping cannot be overstated. Though your old one has served you loyally on gusty, exposed summits, during surprise thunderstorms on the trail, and while cooking dinner on soggy nights at camp, it’s time for a replacement. Part ways with your old jacket willingly knowing you have The North Face Venture 2 Hooded Men’s Jacket waiting for the next time the skies cloud over.
Made with a rugged nylon ripstop and treated with a waterproof, windproof, and breathable membrane, the Venture 2 welcomes foul weather as eagerly as its predecessor. Its lightweight construction shields you without weighing you down, making sure a little rain doesn’t get in the way of your plans.
- Stash this rain and wind jacket in your pack every time
- DryVent membrane completely blocks rain and wind
- Relaxed silhouette with cinch hem lets you change up fit
- Adjustable hood combats strong winds and incessant rain
- Underarm vents keep air moving on humid days
- Zippered pockets provide a safe haven for electronics
- Jacket packs into its own hand pocket for easy storage
Other jackets we’re considering.
As this is a living document, there are a few other rain jackets we have our eyes on:
