Quick heads-up: some of the links on this page are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). This small bit of income helps keep our site running.
Best Women's Rain Jacket of 2024
This post was last updated on May 15, 2024.
There's maybe no piece of gear more important to throw in to your backpack than a dependable rain jacket. But where does the balance lie between style, function, and cost? Read on, we've got you covered.
We've scoured the market for what we think are the best rain jackets out there. We've purchased what we think are the best and abused them on backpacking trips and hikes up mountains in gross, soggy conditions where anyone sensible would have stayed at home. We've also read reviews, asked friends, and generally tried to get a sense of what hikers, backpackers and other outdoor goers think.
And before you take a peek, take a look at some of our other guides: Best Down Jackets for Women, Best Hardshell Jackets for Women, and Best Softshell Jackets for Women. We've also got a guide on the Best Women's Rain Pants that you might like if you're in the market for a full suit of rain protection.
Our Top Recommendations
Our Top Pick
Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket
Breathability
Comfort
Durability
Water Resistance
Weight
Breathability |
7
|
Comfort |
8
|
Durability |
9
|
Water Resistance |
10
|
Weight |
7
|
The Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket lands as our top pick due to its seamless blend of lightweight comfort, top-notch waterproof capabilities, and rave user reviews praising its impressive breathability even during intense hikes.
Runner Up #1
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
Breathability
Comfort
Durability
Water Resistance
Weight
Breathability |
6
|
Comfort |
7
|
Durability |
8
|
Water Resistance |
9
|
Weight |
5
|
The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is a top pick for its unbeatable combination of top-tier waterproofing and exceptional breathability, consistently praised by users for keeping them dry during heavy downpours while ensuring they stay comfortable on the move.
Runner Up #2
Outdoor Research Aspire II
Breathability
Comfort
Durability
Water Resistance
Weight
Breathability |
7
|
Comfort |
8
|
Durability |
7
|
Water Resistance |
10
|
Weight |
9
|
The Outdoor Research Aspire II earns its top pick status due to rave user reviews praising its unmatched breathability and lightweight design that doesn't compromise on rain protection or durability.
What you should look for
(and what we test for)
Durability
Rain jackets get a lot of abuse from backpack straps, rocks, trees and being stuffed in to backpacks. A rain jacket that isn't durable won't last long.
Breathability
To keep you comfortable outdoors, choose a jacket made with a good quality fabric that will let air in (without letting water in), and ideally some ventilation as well, so that you don't overheat.
Waterproofing
Look for a jacket made from a reliable, truly waterproof material like Gore-Tex or eVent. If you see 'water resistant', probably best to keep looking, that isn't the jacket for you.
Fit and Movement
You want a rain jacket that you can wear over top of an additional layer or two, so you don't want it to be too tight.
Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket
$600.00The Best Women's Rain Jacket
Based on our research and testing, we think the Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket is the best Women's Rain Jacket on the market right now, for anyone looking to play hard outside.
Breathability |
7
|
Comfort |
8
|
Durability |
9
|
Water Resistance |
10
|
Weight |
7
|
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptional waterproofing capabilities
- High level of breathability
- Durable and resistant to abrasion
- Designed to provide a great fit
- Good value for the money
Reasons to Avoid
- A bit heavier than other similar products
- Price might be steep for some users
- May not provide enough ventilation for very active users
The Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket scooped a spot in the top rain jacket selections for its jaw-dropping combination of durability, functionality, and comfort. This stellar piece doesn't just keep you dry; it's designed to withstand the serious outdoor lover's heavy-duty needs.
Crafted from the robust GORE-TEX Pro fabric, the jacket offers supreme waterproofing and windproof protection, holding up well in whatever Mother Nature throws your way. The material is impressively breathable, preventing that swampy, hot feeling that usually comes with wearing rain jackets for extended periods.
What sets the Arc'teryx Beta AR apart is its versatile fit. It's roomy without appearing bulky, making it easy to layer up underneath without feeling restricted. The length of the jacket offers decent lower body coverage, while the articulated elbows and no-lift gusseted underarms allow for uninhibited motion - a true gamechanger for active users.
Let's talk about the essential add ons. There's an adjustable, helmet-compatible hood that provides ample peripheral vision. The pockets are strategically placed - high enough to accommodate a harness or a hip belt and have laminated zippers for complete waterproofing. The zips can be a bit finicky initially but seem to improve with use.
While this jacket ticks many boxes, it's worth noting that it comes with a steep price tag. However, many users consider this as an investment, bidding on its long lifespan and superior build quality. On a separate note, the jacket might feel a bit stiff initially, but most users have reported that it softens with usage and time.
Online user reviews are generally positive, praising the jacket for its enduring performance in harsh weather conditions. Users commend the superior breathability, which they say keeps them comfortable during strenuous activities. However, some users pointed out that the sizing can run small, suggesting that potential buyers size up for a better fit. Despite this minor inconsistency, the Arc'teryx Beta AR jacket is held in high esteem for its blend of robustness, protection, and stylish aesthetics, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
$179.00Runner Up
Based on our research and testing, we think the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L is a great choice if you're looking for a women's rain jacket to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.
Breathability |
6
|
Comfort |
7
|
Durability |
8
|
Water Resistance |
9
|
Weight |
5
|
Reasons to Buy
- Eco-friendly made with 100% recycled nylon
- Stylish and comes in a variety of colors
- Excellent water protection
- All-around versatile layer
Reasons to Avoid
- Limited ventilation when fully closed
- Hood is a bit bulky
- Some users reported it was a bit noisy when moving
- Can feel a bit stiff initially
Patagonia’s Torrentshell 3L rain jacket is an absolute gem for weather conscious women adventurers. It's a perfect combination of functionality, style, and comfort. The 3-layered construction provides exceptional waterproofing protection, particularly suitable for those unexpected downpours, all without compromising breathability.
One outstanding feature that we quite admire is the material. This rain jacket is made from 100% recycled nylon. It's not just an eco-friendly pick, it's also lightweight and extremely durable. It translates well into the typical traveling reality and constant packing and unpacking that come hand in hand with outdoor adventures.
Comfort is something the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L takes seriously. The jacket isn't simply a protective shell - it's designed with user comfort in mind. The microfleece-lined neck provides softness against your skin, while the underarm vents ensure adequate ventilation, keeping you comfy and fresh even when active.
Talk about pocket space, this jacket has it covered. The two zip pockets aren't only useful for stowing smaller items but also serve as stuff sacks when you need to pack the jacket away. It's a practical feature that serves a dual purpose, showing that this jacket wasn’t made just to look good, but to truly serve the logistics of outdoor traveling.
The hood of the Torrentshell 3L really shines, too. It offers great coverage and the adjustable drawcord ensures a good fit, preventing it from falling into your eyes. The stiffened brim also keeps rain from trickling into your face, a definite plus when the heavens open.
Style wise, this jacket doesn't fall short. Offering a variety of colors, each design looks sleek and will surely make you stand out in the wilderness or in the city.
However, as promising as this rain jacket is, a few online reviews have commented on the fit. Some customers found it a bit boxier than expected. The aim for a universal fit ends up a tad too loose for slender body types. However, this extra room can be beneficial for layering during colder weather.
Outdoor Research Aspire II
$225.00Runner Up
Based on our research and testing, we think the Outdoor Research Aspire II is a great choice if you're looking for a women's rain jacket to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.
Breathability |
7
|
Comfort |
8
|
Durability |
7
|
Water Resistance |
10
|
Weight |
9
|
Reasons to Buy
- Great waterproofing capabilities
- Excellent breathability
- Comfortable fit
- Durable and resistant to abrasion
- Good value for the price
Reasons to Avoid
- A tad heavier than some other models
- Some users report that the zippers can be a bit stiff
- Not ideal for extremely cold weather
The Outdoor Research Aspire II is effortlessly climbing up the ranks of women's rain jackets and for good reasons. It's a rain jacket designed with the adventurous woman in mind and boasts a multitude of standout features that easily stand up to the elements and keep you dry.
This jacket masterfully combines functionality and fashion. The Outdoor Research Aspire II has a stylish design, but it doesn't compromise on the rugged functionalities you'd need on the trails.
One of the jacket's standout features is its Gore-Tex waterproof fabric. Many buyers have raved about this fabric's impermeable quality, guaranteeing that you stay dry no matter how torrential the downpour gets. Moreover, it has consistently been praised for its breathability. With its Gore-Tex fabric, experience unparalleled breathability that helps to regulate your body temperature, ensuring you're comfortable and dry.
For those on the trail, the Aspire II includes a fully adjustable hood with a stiffened brim. This little feature shows the attention to detail of the Outdoor Research team, giving you enough shelter to keep the rain off your face without obscuring your view.
Several user reviews also pointed out the TorsoFlo side zips. They immensely appreciated this feature for its ventilation properties, allowing for extra haven of breathability. This feature has been great for those who embark on vigorous hiking trails where things might get heated.
Something else buyers loved was the lightweight design of the Aspire II. Its compact nature means it doesn't take up much space in the backpack. Few jackets combine such high-quality weather protection with such a light weight.
However, some people have noted that it can be a bit roomy, giving a less fitted feel. While this isn't an issue for those needing extra space for layers beneath, it might not be for everyone if you prefer a more tailored to body fit.
Some have also noted inconsistencies in sizing. It's always best to try before you buy if possible, or check the measurements carefully when ordering online.
Prices
Marmot PreCip Eco
$119.95Best Budget Women's Rain Jacket
Based on our research and testing, we think the Marmot PreCip Eco is a great pick if you're looking for a women's rain jacket that is more budget friendly, without sacrificing too much in quality.
Breathability |
6
|
Comfort |
8
|
Durability |
7
|
Water Resistance |
9
|
Weight |
9
|
Reasons to Buy
- This jacket is eco-friendly, made from recycled nylon
- It's designed to keep you dry in rainy weather
- Generous pit zips for extra ventilation
- Hood can be rolled up and cinched when not in use
- Compact and easy to pack into your backpack
Reasons to Avoid
- This jacket may not be warm enough for colder climates
- The durability is a bit questionable for heavy duty use
- No inside pockets for extra storage
The Marmot PreCip Eco is an exceptionally affordable piece of kit that holds its own in the world of high-functioning rain jackets. This budget-friendly gem of a rain jacket comes loaded with features and a solid performance to boot, all without breaking the bank.
One of the things that customers rave about is its packability. It's light and compact, meaning you can wolf it down into your backpack with hardly any fuss. This is a big win, especially for those spontaneous outdoor types who want something that can be easily stashed away when the clouds decide to play nice.
Despite being light on your wallet and your pack, the PreCip Eco doesn't compromise on durability. Previous buyers have commented on its commendable resilience. It holds up well to use and abuse, thanks in part to its ripstop nylon material. In essence, it's designed to take a beating.
The NanoPro tech of Marmot will help keep you dry even when Mother Nature is testing your resilience. Many customers found the jacket's waterproofing capabilities to be superb. From drizzles to downpours, the PreCip Eco held its ground, ensuring the owners stayed dry.
The jacket's breathability, however, has received mixed reviews. While some praised its ability to manage sweaty situations, others felt a bit steamy when the intensity cranked up. This is quite common for most rain jackets, and it's not a massive deal-breaker.
One potential downside is the fit. Some users felt it was a little on the loose side, which isn't great for heat retention but excellent for layering underneath. Further, the hood offers good coverage but lacks depth adjustment, leading to occasional peripheral vision blockage.
It's also important to note that many users highlighted the jacket's eco-friendly stance as a huge plus. Marmot has lived up to its responsibility by making this jacket from recycled materials – a small, yet meaningful step towards a more sustainable future.
In terms of style, the PreCip Eco outshines many of its rivals. Offering a range of colors and a sleek, minimalistic design, it stands out for being functional yet stylish. Most agree that it can easily transition from trails to town; an important note for those outdoor enthusiasts who value aesthetics as much as performance.
Prices
Outdoor Research Helium II
$159.00Best Ultralight Women's Rain Jacket
Based on our research and testing, we think the Outdoor Research Helium II is a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight women's rain jacket option to go play hard outside with.
Breathability |
6
|
Comfort |
7
|
Durability |
8
|
Water Resistance |
8
|
Weight |
9
|
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent weather resistance
- Super packable and convenient
- Breathable
- Good value for price
Reasons to Avoid
- Hem drawcord could be a potential weak point
- Lack of ventilation features
- Limited color selection
The Outdoor Research Helium II has, with good reason, caught the eye of many women who adventurously trek into nature, relishing in the fresh air and uncharted paths. This jacket, designed for the lightweight enthusiast, impresses with its minimal packing size and super-light material. The whole thing weighs barely over 5 ounces, which is practically featherweight, something your shoulders will thank you for when you're hiking up a hill for the fifth time.
The Outdoor Research Helium II is no doubt a rain warrior. It's crafted with Pertex Shield, a highly waterproof and durable fabric. One customer even shared that during a hike in a torrential downpour, she remained completely dry under her Helium II. And another plus, post-rainstorm, it dries super fast.
Beyond its waterproof validation, it's loved for its wind resistance. One reviewer happily mentioned that the Jacket stood its ground during a gusty, cold trek on an open ridge, keeping her remarkably warm. That said, it's worth mentioning that due to its ultralight design and lack of insulation, it might not be the best choice for extremely cold weather, unless you're layering underneath.
Fit and comfort are all aces, with most buyers reporting it fits as expected. The jacket is applauded for its adjustable hood and hem, and the slim fit design that leaves enough space for layering without making you feel like a marshmallow. A lack of pit-zips or ventilation slots can create a bit of an internal sticky situation if you're doing something strenuous, but many customers didn't seem too bothered about it.
The packability of the Helium II is off the charts. It folds down into its own pocket, essentially becoming its own tiny bundle that's easy to stow away. This means even in the dullest predictions of rain, you'd likely shove this gem into your backpack.
On the flip side, a few customers did report concerns on durability. The ultra-thin material, although excellent for weight saving and packability, may not endure rigorous use over a long period. Some complained about minor tears and wear after using it heavily.
The Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket is, for the most part, great value for money, providing efficient weather protection, comfort and a minimalist design - perfect for women seeking an ultralight companion on the trail.
Prices
Patagonia Storm Racer Jacket
$269.00Best Women's Rain Jacket for Trail Running
Based on our research and testing, we think the Patagonia Storm Racer Jacket is a solid choice if you want a women's rain jacket that's really well suited to Trail Running.
Breathability |
8
|
Comfort |
9
|
Durability |
7
|
Water Resistance |
9
|
Weight |
10
|
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent waterproofing capabilities
- Lightweight for trail-running
- Highly breathable design
- Durable material stands up to heavy use
- Affordable price for the quality
Reasons to Avoid
- Fit may not be suitable for all body types
- Could have more ventilation for high intensity activities
- Not the most stylish design
The Patagonia Storm Racer Jacket truly embodies the term 'packability meets performance'. This jacket is particularly impressive with its featherlight weight, compactness, yet simultaneously offering substantial protection against harsh weather conditions. It is rare to find a piece of trail running gear that brilliantly deviates from the norm and so beautifully marries absolute comfort with total functionality.
One of the features that caught attention from customers was its fully waterproof build. Made with a H2No Performance Standard shell, it offers multilayered waterproofing, ensuring you stay dry even during a sudden downpour on the trail. However, the jacket doesn't compromise breathability, allowing for better airflow through the fabric, so you'll stay fresh and cool during long-distance runs.
The target users appreciated its ergonomic design, right from its hood to its elasticated cuffs, which substantially minimises exposure to the elements without restricting movement. The hood is fitted with a single elastic pull at the back that keeps it secure even in wind-whipped conditions, and the zipper, which is waterproof, truly reinforces the overall waterproof capability of the jacket.
Beyond this, what stood out from user reviews was how well it fits in a pack. Due to its lightness and packable design, it doesn't eat up too much space and fits snugly into a small running pack or even in your trail running vest pockets.
Several users praised the jacket's minimalist design. It doesn’t overwhelm with too many pockets or unnecessary features, sticking to a single chest pocket that doubles as a stuff sack for packing the jacket away.
Customers also found the jacket to be durable despite its lightweight design. The fabric shows excellent resistance to wear and tear, and it can take on quite a bit of a rough tumble on trails without showing much damage.
Though there were many positive comments, it's fair to note that a few consumers mentioned they found the price tag a bit steep for a minimalist rain jacket. However, those with this concern also acknowledged the top-notch quality and innovation Patagonia brought to the table with this jacket. Another handful of users expressed that they would appreciate more pocket options for additional storage, particularly for longer runs on trails.
Finally, the range of colours this jacket is available in was viewed positively by many customers, allowing them to choose based on visibility needs or simply personal style.
Related Posts
Best Women's Down Jacket
Women'sA good down jacket is as essential as a great pair of hiking boots. The right one can make you feel toasty and warm, even when you're halfway up a freezing mountain. In the shoulder season our down...
Best Women's Rain Pants
Women'sNo one wants to use their rain pants when out backpacking or hiking, but everyone is glad they brought them when a good day turns ugly.
We've dug our rain pants out when a bluebird day turns in to...
Best Women's Windbreaker
Women'sReady to level up your outdoor adventures? Seeking that sweet blend of weather protection and moveability? Say hello to windbreakers. With all the choices out there, it can be challenging to find...
Best Women's Hardshell Jacket
Women'sHey there, outdoor lover! When the going gets tough, the tough reach for their hardshell jackets. In particular, a hardshell jacket that can stand up to anything Mother Nature throws at it. It’s a...
Best Women's Softshell Jacket
Women'sVenture outside on a blustery day, and you'll know the importance of a reliable softshell jacket. They're the unsung heroes of the outdoors - designed to withstand wind, fight off a splash or two...