Key takeaways
- Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2: 5.5 oz (men’s small) · welded seams · adjustable hood · stuff sack
- Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake II: Omni-Tech waterproof · taped seams · mesh lining · relaxed fit
- 33,000ft Women’s Rain Jacket: packable · welded seams · stowable hood
Buying a rei rain jacket that actually keeps you dry is harder than the marketing makes it sound. A jacket with taped seams, a proper storm hood, and a hydrostatic head rating above 10,000mm behaves differently in sustained rain than one with untreated seams and a thin coating. Most buyers end up disappointed because they matched on style or price without checking whether the membrane construction, pit zips, or hood adjustability would survive their actual use case.
We compared eight popular options side by side using published specifications, current retail pricing, and aggregated owner feedback from verified buyers. What separates the strong performers in this group is consistent: durable waterproof coatings, thoughtful ventilation, and hoods that stay up during gusty conditions. The weaker ones cut costs on seam tape or use fabrics that saturate quickly. This roundup ranks them by the balance of protection, comfort, and value for 2026, so you can narrow your shortlist before committing.
Our top picks
MARMOT Men's PreCip Eco Lightweight & WaterproofSeam-taped seams throughout are designed for leak protection
DriClime-lined chin guard reduces irritation around the face and neck
Pit zips and adjustable cuffs help regulate temperature and fit
Offered in a single color and size in this listing
No separate carrying pouch beyond the jacket's own stow pocket
Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake II Rain JacketStow-away hood tucks into the collar when not needed
Packable design folds into its own hand pocket
Adjustable hem and elastic cuffs help seal out wind and rain
Listing does not provide a specific waterproof figure
Only one color and size combination offered here
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Updated October 2026 — The best REI-style rain jacket for most buyers is the MARMOT PreCip Eco for all-round value, the Columbia Watertight II for everyday use on a budget, and The North Face Venture 2 for sustained hiking in wet weather. If you want an ultralight emergency shell, the Outdoor Research Helium UL is the one to look at.
Quick answer: For a rain jacket in the style of REI’s picks, choose a 2.5-layer or 3-layer waterproof shell with taped seams, a hood that adjusts, and pit zips if you hike uphill. Budget buyers can start with the Columbia Watertight II; hikers should step up to the MARMOT PreCip Eco or The North Face Venture 2.
Best rain jacket picks by budget tier
Each line shows the key specs in one place, followed by what the tier typically gets you. Prices are shown as tiers, not exact figures.
Best rain jacket under $50
- Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2: 5.5 oz (men’s small) · welded seams · adjustable hood · stuff sack
- Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake II: Omni-Tech waterproof · taped seams · mesh lining · relaxed fit
- 33,000ft Women’s Rain Jacket: packable · welded seams · stowable hood
What to expect at this tier:
- Waterproof fabric but little ventilation, so condensation builds up during activity.
- Thin material that can abrade against pack straps and rock.
- Good as an emergency or travel layer, not as a daily hiking shell.
Best rain jacket under $100
- Columbia Men’s Watertight II: Omni-Tech membrane · taped seams · adjustable hood · hand pockets
- Columbia Women’s Arcadia II: waterproof · packable · adjustable hood
- Helly Hansen Moss: Helox+ polyurethane fabric · welded seams · full-front zip · adjustable hood
- 33,000ft Men’s Packable Rain Jacket: 10,000 mm rating · packable · hood
What to expect at this tier:
- Fully taped or welded seams and decent hoods.
- Limited breathability: no pit zips on many models.
- Good for commuting, dog walks and day hikes in moderate rain.
Best rain jacket under $200
- MARMOT Men’s PreCip Eco: NanoPro Eco membrane · taped seams · pit zips · adjustable hood
- The North Face Men’s Venture 2: DryVent · pit zips · helmet-compatible hood
- The North Face Antora: DryVent 2L · seam-sealed · recycled nylon ripstop · no pit zips
- MARMOT Women’s PreCip Eco: NanoPro Eco membrane · taped seams · women’s fit
- Marmot Minimalist Pertex: 2.5-layer · 20K/20K waterproof and breathable · fully taped seams
What to expect at this tier:
- Better membranes and ventilation features such as pit zips.
- A hood that stays up in wind.
- Durability suited to regular hiking and backpacking.
Best ultralight rain jacket
- Outdoor Research Helium UL: 2.75-layer · 15-denier shell · about 5.7 oz
What to expect at this tier: very low weight, but ultralight fabrics are thinner and need more careful handling, and breathability is often modest without pit zips.
REI rain jacket alternatives: what to look for
REI Co-op sells its own jackets, such as the REI Co-op Rainier (2.5-layer) and XeroCloud 3L, through REI, so those exact models are not on this page. The jackets here cover the same jobs: a budget shell, a mid-priced hiking shell, and an ultralight emergency layer. When comparing any REI rain jacket with the picks above, match them on layers (2L, 2.5L or 3L), pit zips, hood adjustability and weight rather than brand name.
Quick Picks
| Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|
| MARMOT Men’s PreCip Eco | Best overall value | Check on Amazon |
| Columbia Men’s Watertight II | Everyday and trail mix | Check on Amazon |
| 33,000ft Men’s Packable | Travel and stashing | Check on Amazon |
| Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake II | Low-cost rain insurance | Check on Amazon |
| The North Face Men’s Venture 2 | Serious hiking in wet climates | Check on Amazon |
| 33,000ft Women’s Packable | Budget women’s option | Check on Amazon |
| MARMOT Women’s PreCip Eco | Best women’s all-rounder | Check on Amazon |
| Columbia Women’s Arcadia II | Commuting and light outdoor use | Check on Amazon |
How We Compared
We evaluated each jacket on four criteria that matter most in the waterproof-shell category. First, membrane and coating technology: a true waterproof-breathable laminate or polyurethane coating with fully taped seams outperforms water-resistant DWR treatments that wash out over time. Second, ventilation and mobility: pit zips, articulated elbows, and helmet-compatible hoods distinguish a jacket you can wear all day from one you shed after twenty minutes of uphill effort. Third, durability signals: reinforced shoulders, quality zippers, and owner-reported longevity at 12+ months of regular use. Fourth, value per dollar: how much waterproofing and feature set you get relative to price.
The 8 Best Rei Rain Jacket in 2026
MARMOT Men’s PreCip Eco
This jacket earns the top spot because it pairs a proven NanoPro Eco waterproof-breathable membrane with features usually reserved for more expensive shells. The PreCip Eco is for hikers and commuters who want genuine protection without paying a premium brand tax. Owners consistently highlight the hood’s single-pull adjustment and the taped seams that hold up through season after season of downpours.
- Pro: Fully seam-taped with a breathable membrane rated above 10,000mm, meaning real waterproofing, not just a coating.
- Pro: Pit zips allow rapid heat dumping during steep climbs, a feature often missing at this price.
- Con: Slightly heavier than ultralight competitors, adding bulk when stowed in a pack.
Skip this one if your priority is a jacket that packs smaller than a fist; the PreCip Eco is packable but not ultralight.
Columbia Men’s Watertight II
Columbia’s Watertight II uses Omni-Tech technology with critically taped seams and an adjustable hood that blocks wind-driven rain effectively. It suits buyers who want a reliable rain layer for city walking, dog walks, and moderate trail use without investing in a technical mountaineering shell. Owner feedback praises the hand pockets’ placement and the jacket’s ability to shed light drizzle indefinitely.
- Pro: Adjustable hem and storm cuffs seal out drafts without fuss.
- Con: No pit zips, so breathability lags during high-output activity.
If you plan sustained aerobic effort in humid conditions, the lack of underarm venting will leave you soaked from the inside.
33,000ft Men’s Packable Rain Jacket
The 33,000ft Men’s Packable is for travelers and runners who need a rain layer that disappears into a pocket. It compresses remarkably small for its price and includes a hood that deploys quickly when weather shifts.
- Pro: Packs down to a compact bundle, ideal for day trips and carry-on bags.
- Pro: Waterproof coating with sealed seams handles moderate rain competently.
- Con: Fabric feels thin and can abrade on rough rock faces or pack straps.
Active mountaineers or anyone dragging their jacket against abrasive surfaces should look elsewhere for something more rugged.
Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake II
Columbia positions it as an everyday raincoat, and its relaxed fit accommodates layering underneath. Owners note the mesh-lined interior adds comfort during warmer, wet days.
- Pro: Lowest price with genuine Omni-Tech waterproofing from an established outdoor brand.
- Pro: Mesh lining reduces clamminess compared to bare nylon interiors.
- Con: Breathability is limited; condensation builds during physical activity.
This jacket is best as a static-use raincoat. If you’ll be moving hard or hiking uphill, the moisture buildup will make it uncomfortable.
The North Face Men’s Venture 2
It is the most technically capable jacket here for sustained wet-weather hiking, with a helmet-compatible hood, pit zips, and a longer back hem for pack coverage. Owner reviews consistently mention it held up through multi-day treks in the Pacific Northwest without leaking.
- Pro: Helmet-compatible hood and articulated sleeves provide serious weather protection during technical movement.
- Pro: Pit zips plus a breathable membrane keep interior humidity manageable on long climbs.
- Con: Highest price in this group; you are paying for the North Face name alongside performance.
Budget-conscious buyers who primarily need rain protection for errands and short walks will find this over-specced for their needs.
33,000ft Women’s Rain Jacket
The 33,000ft Women’s packable raincoat uses a welded-seam construction and a stowable hood. It is best suited as an emergency rain layer kept in a bag for sudden showers, not as a primary jacket for all-weather outdoor activity.
- Pro: Unbeatable price for a waterproof, packable rain jacket.
- Pro: Stows into its own pocket, making it nearly invisible when not in use.
- Con: Minimal breathability and a less durable shell; owners report coating degradation after heavy use.
Anyone logging regular trail hours in wet conditions will outgrow this jacket quickly; treat it as a backup, not a primary layer.
MARMOT Women’s PreCip Eco
The women’s version of the PreCip Eco carries the same NanoPro Eco membrane, taped seams, and pit-zip venting as its men’s counterpart, cut for a feminine fit. Owners report it handles everything from cold drizzle to warm thunderstorms without interior moisture buildup.
- Pro: Women-specific patterning with an adjustable storm hood that fits without gaping.
- Pro: Pit zips and a hydrostatic head rating that supports multi-hour use in sustained rain.
Buyers who rarely face more than light rain and want the cheapest adequate option should pick a lower-priced alternative.
Columbia Women’s Arcadia II
It occupies a sweet spot for women who want dependable rain protection for commuting, errands, and casual hiking without the bulk of a mountaineering shell. Owners frequently praise its weight and the fact that it resists wind as well as rain.
- Pro: Windproof and waterproof in a lightweight, packable profile.
- Pro: Zippered hand pockets and an adjustable hem add practical everyday features.
- Con: No pit zips, which limits ventilation during aerobic exertion.
Trail runners or fast-paced hikers in warm, humid climates may find the lack of underarm vents frustrating.
More best rain jackets: four extra picks
Four additional jackets round out the list: an ultralight shell, a fashion-forward everyday jacket, a coastal workhorse and an ultra-budget emergency layer.
Outdoor Research Helium UL — Best ultralight rain jacket for backpacking
Spec line: 2.75-layer waterproof breathable fabric · 15-denier shell · about 5.7 oz · premium tier
- Construction: 2.75-layer fabric with a 15-denier shell
- Weight: about 5.7 oz according to published reviews
- Replaces the earlier Helium Rain model for 2026
- Designed for packing small in a hip belt or hood pocket
The Helium line has been a staple for ultralight backpackers because it saves several ounces over typical rain jackets while still carrying a real waterproof membrane. It is built as a storm layer, not a daily jacket. The previous Helium Rain was criticized for modest breathability, so plan to open the front zip and slow your pace in sustained rain.
- Pro: Among the lightest waterproof shells in this guide.
- Pro: Waterproof breathable construction instead of a coating.
- Pro: Packs small for ultralight kits.
- Con: Thin fabric needs careful handling around pack straps and brush.
- Con: Premium price for a single-purpose layer.
Skip it if you want a rugged all-day jacket or the best ventilation for steep climbs.
The North Face Antora — Best everyday rain jacket for town and light trails
Spec line: DryVent 2L · seam-sealed · recycled nylon ripstop · non-PFC DWR · no pit zips
- Construction: DryVent 2-layer, seam-sealed shell
- Fabric: recycled nylon ripstop with a mesh lining and non-PFC DWR
- Hood: adjustable three-piece hood with cinch cord
- Pockets: secure-zip hand pockets; stormflap over the front zip
- Sizes: S to 3XL, with a separate Big Antora
The Antora uses the same DryVent membrane family as the Venture 2 in a simpler 2-layer build with a more casual look. It handles city rain and short hikes. Without pit zips and with a thick mesh lining, it does not breathe as well as the Venture 2 during hard effort.
- Pro: Seam-sealed DryVent shell from a major outdoor brand.
- Pro: Adjustable hood and stormflap.
- Pro: Wide size run including tall and big sizes.
- Con: No pit zips, so it runs warm in steady effort.
- Con: Mesh lining adds weight and bulk.
Skip it if you plan long hikes in humid weather.
Helly Hansen Moss — Best for windy, coastal and commuter use
Spec line: Helox+ polyurethane fabric · welded seams · full-front zip · adjustable hood · repair kit included
- Fabric: Helox+ polyurethane waterproof, windproof shell
- Seams: welded rather than conventional taped seams
- Features: full-front zip, hand pockets and an adjustable hood
- Extra: includes a repair kit
Helly Hansen is a sailing brand, and the Moss shows it: the shell is a windproof, waterproof coat meant to shed spray and wet wind. The trade-off is breathability. Reviewers rate the Moss low for ventilation, so it suits standing, walking and commuting more than steep, sweaty climbs.
- Pro: Windproof and waterproof construction with welded seams.
- Pro: Repair kit included.
- Pro: Widely available in men’s, women’s and kids’ versions.
- Con: Limited breathability.
- Con: Heavier than technical hiking shells.
Skip it if your main use is uphill hiking or running.
Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 — Best emergency rain jacket on a tiny budget
Spec line: about 5.5 oz (men’s small) · non-woven fabric · welded seams · adjustable hood · stuff sack included
- Weight: about 5.5 oz in a men’s small
- Fabric: breathable non-woven material with welded seams
- Features: adjustable hood with cord locks, storm flap, elastic cuffs and stuff sack
- Tier: the lowest price in this guide
The Ultra-Lite2 is the standard throw-in-the-pack rain jacket for fishing, hunting and ultralight backpacking. It weighs less than most premium shells and costs a fraction as much. It is a basic shell and not very durable, and breathability is its weak point.
- Pro: Extremely light and compact.
- Pro: Lowest cost, easy to replace.
- Pro: Includes a stuff sack and adjustable hood.
- Con: Not durable for daily use.
- Con: Condensation builds up during effort.
Skip it if you need a jacket that lasts several seasons.
Also consider
Marmot Minimalist Pertex Men’s 2.5L — Best premium step-up from the PreCip
Best for hikers who want higher waterproof and breathable ratings than the PreCip Eco. Key spec: 2.5-layer, 20K/20K waterproof and breathable, fully taped seams, fixed hood. Trade-off: a fixed hood does not adjust for helmets.
Outdoor Research Women’s Helium Rain Jacket — Best women’s ultralight shell
Best for women who want a pack-and-forget storm layer. Key spec: ultralight Helium line built for packability. Trade-off: reviewers note modest breathability for the Helium family.
Helly Hansen Women’s Moss Rain Coat — Best women’s coastal commuter
Best for windy cities and coasts. Key spec: Helox+ shell with welded seams and a longer cut with back yoke ventilation. Trade-off: heavier and less breathable than hiking shells.
Frogg Toggs Women’s Ultra-Lite2 — Best budget women’s emergency jacket
Best for a backup layer in a daypack. Key spec: about 6.4 oz, welded-seam non-woven fabric. Trade-off: limited durability.
Best rain jackets compared: construction, ventilation and weight
| Jacket | Construction | Pit zips | Weight note | Best for | Tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MARMOT Men’s PreCip Eco | NanoPro Eco membrane, taped seams | Yes | Mid-weight | All-round hiking | Upper-mid |
| The North Face Venture 2 | DryVent, helmet-compatible hood | Yes | Mid-weight | Sustained wet hikes | Upper-mid |
| The North Face Antora | DryVent 2L, seam-sealed | No | Mid-weight, mesh lined | Town and light trails | Upper-mid |
| Columbia Watertight II | Omni-Tech, taped seams | No | Mid-weight | Everyday use | Budget |
| Columbia Glennaker Lake II | Omni-Tech, mesh lining | No | Mid-weight | Cheapest branded shell | Budget |
| Helly Hansen Moss | Helox+ polyurethane, welded seams | Not listed | About 18 to 22 oz | Wind and coast | Mid |
| Marmot Minimalist Pertex | 2.5L, 20K/20K, taped seams | Not listed | Light | Step-up hiking shell | Upper-mid |
| Outdoor Research Helium UL | 2.75L, 15-denier shell | Not listed | About 5.7 oz | Ultralight backpacking | Premium |
| Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 | Non-woven, welded seams | No | About 5.5 oz | Emergency layer | Budget |
Use the table to shortlist two jackets, then check the size chart and hood design on the product page. The first things to decide are whether you need pit zips, whether weight matters more than durability, and whether you want a hood that adjusts for a helmet or a cap.
Buying Guide
Waterproof Construction: Membranes vs. Coatings
Not all “waterproof” labels mean the same thing. A true membrane (like NanoPro Eco, Omni-Tech, or DryVent) is bonded or laminated to the face fabric and resists hydrostatic pressure measured in millimeters. Polyurethane coatings are cheaper and effective for a time, but they abrade, crack, and lose flexibility faster than membranes. When comparing an rei rain jacket, look for a stated hydrostatic head rating of at least 10,000mm and confirm that seam taping covers all stitched joints, including pockets and hood seams.
Ventilation: Why Pit Zips Matter More Than You Think
A waterproof shell traps body heat. During aerobic activity, sweat condenses on the interior, making you feel wet regardless of external conditions. Pit zips allow you to dump heat without removing the jacket, and their absence is the single biggest comfort differentiator between jackets in the same price bracket. If your use includes hiking, climbing, or brisk movement in warm rain, prioritize jackets that include them.
Hood Design and Fit
A poor hood is the most common failure point in waterproof jackets. Look for a hood with at least a three-way adjustment (rear cinch plus two side toggles) that seals around the face without blocking peripheral vision. If you wear helmets or beanies, confirm the hood accommodates them. A stiff brim that resists water pooling at the edge also matters more than most buyers realize, especially in sideways rain.
Layers explained: 2L, 2.5L and 3L
| Construction | How it is built | Typical weight | Best for | Examples in this guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-layer (2L) | Membrane bonded to the outer fabric, loose mesh lining | Heavier, more bulk | Everyday and town use | The North Face Antora, Columbia Watertight II |
| 2.5-layer (2.5L) | Membrane plus a printed protective coating inside | Light, packable | Hiking and backpacking | MARMOT PreCip Eco, Marmot Minimalist, Outdoor Research Helium |
| 3-layer (3L) | Outer fabric, membrane and inner liner laminated together | Heavier but most durable | Long wet trips and mountaineering | Premium shells from other brands |
Choose 2.5-layer for most hiking and travel because it weighs less and packs smaller. Choose 3-layer if you hike in rain for days at a time or carry a heavy pack that rubs the shoulders.
Waterproof rating: what the numbers mean
- Under 5,000 mm: light rain only; many ultra-budget jackets sit here.
- 10,000 mm: fine for steady rain and day use. The 33,000ft jackets in this guide are listed at 10,000 mm.
- 15,000 to 20,000 mm: sustained heavy rain and pack pressure. The Marmot Minimalist is listed at 20K/20K.
Ratings are lab numbers under controlled pressure. In practice, taped seams, a well-fitted hood and a refreshed DWR finish matter as much as the number.
Breathability and pit zips
A waterproof jacket traps sweat unless it can vent. Pit zips are the fastest fix, which is why the MARMOT PreCip Eco and The North Face Venture 2 are better hiking choices than jackets without them, such as the Columbia Watertight II and The North Face Antora. If you hike uphill in warm rain, expect to open the pit zips and front zip within the first 10 minutes.
Weight and packability by tier
- Under 6 oz: Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 (about 5.5 oz in men’s small) and Outdoor Research Helium UL (about 5.7 oz).
- Roughly 10 to 20 oz: typical 2.5-layer hiking shells.
- About 18 to 22 oz: everyday coats with mesh lining and storm flaps, such as the Helly Hansen Moss.
Fit and sizing
Size so you can layer a fleece or insulated mid-layer underneath without pulling at the shoulders. Check sleeve length with your arms raised, and make sure the hem does not ride up when you reach. Big-and-tall buyers can look at the Big Antora, which runs to 5XL.
Care: keep the DWR working
- Wash the jacket with a technical-fabric cleaner, not regular detergent with fabric softener.
- Tumble dry on low if the care label allows it; heat reactivates the DWR.
- Reapply a spray-on or wash-in DWR when water stops beading.
- Store loosely, not compressed, to protect the membrane and seam tape.
Which rain jacket should you buy? Scenario guide
| If you… | Buy | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Hike in steady rain and want ventilation | MARMOT PreCip Eco or The North Face Venture 2 | Pit zips, taped seams, good hoods |
| Commute or walk the dog | Columbia Watertight II or The North Face Antora | Simple, affordable, comfortable |
| Carry a backup in a daypack | Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 or 33,000ft Packable | Light and cheap |
| Backpack and count ounces | Outdoor Research Helium UL | About 5.7 oz |
| Live in a windy coastal city | Helly Hansen Moss | Windproof, welded seams |
| Want a women’s all-rounder | MARMOT Women’s PreCip Eco | Taped seams, women’s fit |
Mistakes to avoid
- Buying on style alone without checking seams, hood adjustability and ventilation.
- Choosing the lowest price for sustained hiking, where breathability matters.
- Ignoring sizing for layers.
- Washing with fabric softener, which ruins the DWR finish.
Our Verdict
The MARMOT Men’s PreCip EcoFor the best value, the Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake IIThat said, if your primary use is multi-day hiking in consistently wet, cold conditions, The North Face Men’s Venture 2
FAQ
It depends on your use case. It is not designed to be your primary shell for regular outdoor activity in sustained rain.
What is the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?
A waterproof jacket uses a membrane or coating combined with fully taped seams to block water penetration under pressure. Water-resistant jackets rely on a DWR surface treatment that beads light rain but will saturate and leak under sustained or heavy precipitation. For anything beyond a brief drizzle, waterproof construction is the minimum standard.
Do I need pit zips in a rain jacket?
If your activity level is low, such as commuting or standing, you can manage without them. If you will hike, climb, or move briskly while wearing the jacket, pit zips dramatically improve comfort by venting warm, moist air before it condenses inside. They are the feature most often cited in negative reviews when absent.
Can I machine-wash my waterproof rain jacket?
Most modern waterproof-breathable shells tolerate a gentle machine wash with a dedicated tech wash, which removes body oils and dirt that degrade the membrane’s ability to breathe. Avoid standard detergents with fabric softeners or bleach. After washing, tumble-dry on low heat or iron on a cool setting to reactivate the DWR surface treatment.
What is the best rain jacket for hiking?
The MARMOT PreCip Eco and The North Face Venture 2 are the best hiking picks in this guide because they combine taped seams, adjustable hoods and pit zips. For ultralight backpacking, the Outdoor Research Helium UL weighs about 5.7 oz.
Is a REI rain jacket better than the jackets here?
REI’s own jackets, such as the REI Co-op Rainier and XeroCloud 3L, are strong value picks sold through REI. The jackets in this guide compete on the same features, so compare layers, pit zips and hood fit rather than the brand.
What is the difference between a 2L, 2.5L and 3L rain jacket?
A 2L jacket has a loose lining, a 2.5L jacket has a light protective print and weighs less, and a 3L jacket bonds all layers for durability. Choose 2.5L for hiking and 3L for multi-day wet trips.
How long does a rain jacket last?
Most rain jackets last several seasons with regular use if you clean them and refresh the DWR. Budget shells like the Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 are meant as light-duty layers and typically wear out sooner.
Do rain jackets need to be waterproofed again?
Yes, the DWR coating wears off over time. When water stops beading on the fabric, wash the jacket and reapply a wash-in or spray-on DWR treatment; the membrane underneath remains waterproof.
Is a more expensive rain jacket worth it?
It is worth it if you hike or work in rain often, because you get better breathability, pit zips and a more durable membrane. For occasional use, a Columbia Watertight II or Glennaker Lake II is usually enough.
