Key takeaways
- You run trails and want a shell that packs into a vest pocket.
- You prefer a close, athletic fit and precise hood adjustment.
- You want a light backup layer for hiking or travel.
- You want a proven design (Bonatti) at a mid-range cost.
For trail runners, the Salomon Bonatti Waterproof (sold in earlier seasons as the Bonatti WP) is the budget-to-mid-range waterproof classic, the Bonatti Pro is the more breathable premium upgrade, and the Outline GORE-TEX 2.5L is the better pick for hikers who want a sturdier shell. Salomon is a trail-running specialist first, so its rain jackets lean toward lightweight, close-fitting designs that fold into a vest pocket. Hikers, commuters and travelers can use them too, but should understand the trade-offs in breathability and hood coverage described below.
Our top picks
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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Salomon’s Rain Jacket Lineup in Brief
Salomon builds its waterproofs around three ideas: very light weight, packability and a fit that stays out of the way under a running vest. The Bonatti series is the long-standing core of that approach; Salomon’s own Bonatti collection for the current season is described as spanning the Bonatti Waterproof as the essential option, the Bonatti Pro as the technical option designed to work with a hydration vest, and the S/LAB Bonatti Infinite as the elite ultra-trail option, with a higher-end Bonatti Trail shell also listed. For more general mountain use, Salomon has offered a GORE-TEX Paclite 2.5-layer shell, the Outline. Retailer stock of the Outline varies and the newest independent reviews of it are several years old, so confirm availability before planning around it. Salomon sells other shell designs that change from season to season; this guide focuses on the Bonatti and Outline jackets that independent reviewers have assessed. Some reviews cited below cover earlier versions that carried the WP name.
Models Comparison Table
| Model | Best for | Key stated specs | Notable limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonatti Waterproof (earlier Bonatti WP) Jacket | Trail runners and hikers wanting a light emergency or race shell on a budget | AdvancedSkin Dry, 10K/10K per REI; 2.5-layer; 10,000 mm hydrostatic head per Live for the Outdoors; reported weights vary by version and size, roughly 175 to 210 g; seam-sealed zip; waterproof pockets | Moderate breathability, clammy feel when working hard, minimal hood coverage |
| Bonatti Pro Jacket (earlier Bonatti Pro WP) | Runners who want a premium waterproof that fits over a hydration vest | 2.5-layer Pertex Shield+, 20K/20K (20,000 mm / 20,000 g/m2 per Salomon’s page); roughly 190 to 194 g in men’s medium per reviewers and retailers; taped seams | Premium tier; long sleeves and a looser women’s fit were noted by one reviewer |
| Outline GORE-TEX 2.5L Jacket | Hikers and travelers wanting a more durable, packable shell | GORE-TEX Paclite 2.5-layer; about 345 g in men’s medium per Salomon and retailer listings; some listings give a 28,000 mm hydrostatic head; taped seams, two zipped front pockets, adjustable hood | Heavier and bulkier than the Bonatti jackets; mid-to-premium tier |
Weights differ between retailers and review sites, so treat the figures above as approximate and compare them with the brand’s current product page for your size.
Bonatti Waterproof: The Cult Classic
Live for the Outdoors calls the Bonatti Waterproof (reviewed under its earlier WP name) a “cult classic” and used it as the only run layer during a year-long trip. Its strengths, according to that review, are light weight, packability, three waterproof pockets and a precise athletic fit. Its weaknesses are limited hood coverage and low breathability. The brand lists a 10K/10K rating, which means 10,000 mm waterproofing and 10,000 g/m2 breathability, a typical entry-level figure.
OutdoorGearLab’s review, which is older, scored the Bonatti well for weather resistance but lower for breathability and criticised a “sticky, clammy interior” typical of 2.5-layer fabrics. It also praised the hood design with integrated elastic and the quality of the zippers and the waterproof chest pocket. The same reviewer suggested the Asics Fujitrail for runners who value breathability above full waterproofing. A Fiona Outdoors review found the fit superb, but reported some wetness after an hour of torrential Scottish rain.
Bonatti Pro: The Upgrade
The Bonatti Pro (reviewed in earlier seasons as the Bonatti Pro WP) uses Pertex Shield+ with a 20K/20K rating, doubling the stated waterproof and breathability figures of the standard Bonatti. 220 Triathlon described it as an exceptional waterproof that can be worn over a hydration pack, and called out the price, the fit for women and the long sleeves as minor cons. It is the model to consider if you run in sustained rain and want a jacket that handles sweat better.
Outline GORE-TEX 2.5L: For Hikers
The Outline uses GORE-TEX Paclite, a 2.5-layer laminate that GORE-TEX markets as light and packable. At roughly 345 g in a men’s medium it is about 140 to 170 g heavier than the Bonatti, but it carries two zipped front pockets and a more adjustable hood. Hikers who find the Bonatti hood too minimal will appreciate the extra coverage. Some retailer listings state a 28,000 mm hydrostatic head; because sources differ in how they report this, treat it as indicative and compare the brand’s own specification.
Choosing Between Breathability and Protection
Every waterproof shell balances keeping rain out against letting sweat escape. The standard Bonatti sits at the protective, less breathable end, which is why OutdoorGearLab found the interior clammy during hard running. The Pro model’s higher breathability figure is aimed at exactly that complaint. For slower hiking in steady rain the difference is less noticeable, and the heavier Outline offers a roomier cut where airflow is easier. Many runners carry the Bonatti only as a mandatory-kit or emergency layer and run in a lighter wind jacket when the weather is dry, which keeps the waterproof clean and reduces wear on its lamination. If you race, check the event rules, because many mountain races specify minimum waterproof ratings and fully taped seams.
Who Should Buy and Who Should Skip
Buy a Salomon rain jacket if
- You run trails and want a shell that packs into a vest pocket.
- You prefer a close, athletic fit and precise hood adjustment.
- You want a light backup layer for hiking or travel.
- You want a proven design (Bonatti) at a mid-range cost.
Skip if
- You hike for long hours in heavy rain and need top-tier breathability and a deep hood.
- You wear thick insulation under your shell; slim cuts may feel tight.
- You need extensive pockets or ventilation like pit zips.
- You want a daily commuting coat with a relaxed fit.
Sizing and Fit Advice
Salomon’s trail-running shells are cut slim. Reviewers repeatedly describe a precise athletic fit with sleeves designed to move with a runner. If you plan to layer a fleece or wear a loaded running vest underneath, consider sizing up or try the Pro, which one reviewer found works over a hydration pack. 220 Triathlon noted long sleeves on the Pro and a less ideal women’s fit, so people with shorter arms should try before committing. The Outline fits more like a general hiking shell with room for a light mid-layer.
How Salomon Compares With Other Brands
Versus Patagonia
Patagonia sells recycled-material rain shells with broad hiking appeal and a repair program, though they are generally less run-specific in cut than Salomon.
Versus Arc’teryx
Arc’teryx makes lighter and more breathable GORE-TEX shells, but typically at a clearly higher price. Salomon is the cheaper option that still achieves a running-friendly fit.
Versus Montane and Inov-8
Montane and Inov-8 also sell lightweight trail-running waterproofs. Montane tends to prioritise breathable fabrics, while Inov-8 designs are aimed at fell and mountain racing. Comparing mandatory-kit requirements for races can help you choose between them.
Care and DWR Re-Proofing
All waterproof shells lose water repellency as dirt, sweat and abrasion clog the outer fabric. The general guidance for technical shells is to wash technical shells with a mild technical detergent, avoid fabric softener and rinse thoroughly. Gentle heat from a low tumble dry can help restore the water-repellent finish on many fabrics, but always follow the label. When water no longer beads, use a wash-in or spray-on re-proofing product. Check taped seams for lifting and avoid stuffing a wet jacket into a pack for days, as moisture and sweat accelerate wear on the lamination. Keep the zips clean with a soft brush and rinse out salt after coastal runs.
Common Issues Reviewers Note
- Breathability: the standard Bonatti feels clammy during hard efforts.
- Hood: coverage is minimal on the Bonatti compared with hiking-specific hoods.
- Seam leakage: Fiona Outdoors reported some wetting in prolonged torrential rain.
- Reflectivity: OutdoorGearLab found visibility features limited.
- Fit: slim sleeves and torso may restrict heavy layering.
Decision Table: Pick X If
| Pick this | If you |
|---|---|
| Bonatti Waterproof | want a light, affordable emergency shell for runs and short hikes |
| Bonatti Pro | run long in rain and need better breathability and a vest-friendly cut |
| Outline GORE-TEX 2.5L | hike or travel and want a sturdier jacket with a better hood and pockets |
| A competing brand | prioritise maximum breathability, relaxed fit or a deeper hood |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Salomon rain jacket is best for trail running?
The Bonatti Waterproof (formerly Bonatti WP) is the classic budget choice, and the Bonatti Pro is the upgrade with higher stated waterproof and breathability ratings. Reviewers consider the Pro better for sustained rain and long efforts. Salomon’s current collection also includes a Bonatti Trail and an S/LAB Bonatti Infinite for higher budgets.
Is the Salomon Bonatti really waterproof?
The brand lists a 10K/10K rating, and reviewers report that it keeps rain out in typical conditions. One reviewer reported some seepage after an hour of torrential rain. It is best seen as a lightweight shell for showers and moderate rain, and seam-sealed does not mean guaranteed dry in prolonged downpours.
Is the Salomon Outline suitable for hiking?
Yes. It uses GORE-TEX Paclite in a 2.5-layer build with a more adjustable hood and two zipped front pockets, making it more suitable for hikers than the Bonatti. It weighs more but is still packable.
How does Salomon sizing compare with other brands?
Reviewers describe an athletic, trim fit. If you layer heavily or carry a loaded vest, you may want to size up and try the jacket on with your usual gear.
How do I re-waterproof a Salomon jacket?
Clean it with a technical detergent, rinse well, dry gently if the label allows and apply a re-proofing spray or wash-in treatment when water stops beading. Always follow the care label.
Can I use a Salomon trail jacket for commuting?
You can, especially for short rides or walks, but the slim cut and limited hood coverage are less comfortable than a dedicated commuter jacket. For daily use, a roomier shell may suit you better.
