Best Rain Pants of 2025

When the skies open up and Thor's Hammer strikes, sometimes your trusty ol' rain jacket just won't offer the full-body protection you need. Enter the rain pant. Whether you're punching in pickets on the slopes of Denali, or setting off on a foul-weather weekend backpacking trip, there's a worthy pair of waterproof britches for the job. To narrow in on the absolute best rain pants on the market, we tested over 15 models all over the world through some of the toughest conditions we could find—from climbing and trekking expeditions in Chile, Argentina, and Nepal, to full-blown thru-hikes of the Continental Divide and Appalachian Trail. In short, the 10 pairs you see below were thoroughly put through their paces. For more background information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks, along with details about our testing process.
 

Our Team's Top Rain Pants Picks

• Best Overall Rain Pants: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Pant
• Best Budget Rain Pants: REI Co-op Trailmade Rain Pants
• Best Ultralight Rain Pants: Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants
• Best Rugged Hardshell Rain Pants: Arc'teryx Beta AR Pant
• Best Emergency Rain Pants: Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 Waterproof Rain Suit
• Best Stretchy Rain Pants: Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Pants

Best Overall Rain Pants

1. Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Pant ($129)

Weight: 11.8 oz.
Material: H2No Performance Standard ripstop nylon
Zipper length: Thigh
What we like: Stellar performance, great ventilation, and good durability at an affordable price.
What we don’t: Heavier and bulkier than some; slightly noisy fabric; non-waterproof zippers.

If you know rain gear, it should be no surprise that Patagonia snagged our top slot for the best rain pant of 2025. While not the most specced out, tech-heavy model we tested, the Torrentshell 3L impressed us with its stellar cost-to-performance ratio, breezy ventilation, and top-shelf durability—tied up with a nice $129 bow on top. For this price, it’s downright difficult to find a more versatile option. While the Torrentshell doesn’t stand out in any one category, it has become our go-to for a wide range of adventures—from downpours while trekking in Chilean Patagonia to all-day drizzle in the Appalachian Mountains—thanks to its acceptable weight and packability, durability, and waterproof performance. This pant covers all the bases and is one you could confidently take on casual alpine climbs and then carry for weeks on a groomed backpacking trail. A rain pant is nothing without waterproof protection, which the 3L H2No membrane offers in spades. We stay bone dry each time we slide these on.

The dual handwarmer pockets and cuff-to-thigh vents with two-way zippers are headliners for us, which are great for airing things out on the go and customizing ventilation. They also make it a cinch to fit the cuffs over boots. However, we wish the zippers were waterproof. Fabric flaps are used over the zippers to fend off moisture, which adds weight and bulk and can feel uncomfortable if you're wearing a climbing harness. Adding to this, the waistband is a tad thick for our taste. If these features are dealbreakers for you, we’ve also had great luck with Patagonia’s premium—and pricey—Granite Crest Rain Pants ($229) which address these issues. All told, while the Torrentshell wouldn’t be our rain pant of choice for blazingly fast thru-hikes or gnarly alpine climbs in the greater ranges, it is one of the most versatile models we tested and our top pick for a broad spectrum of adventures.
See the Men's Patagonia Torrentshell 3L  See the Women's Patagonia Torrentshell 3L
 

Best Budget Rain Pants

2. REI Co-op Trailmade Rain Pants ($70)

Weight: 7.8 oz.
Material: Polyester
Zipper length: Ankle
What we like: Great performance at an incredible price.
What we don’t: Only one pocket; not the most premium material; sizing can be tricky to nail.

We refer to these as the Honda Accord of our rain pants collection. Do they look sexy? Definitely not—but few rain pants do. Are they specced out with the latest materials and tech? Nope. But do they cover the essentials at an incredible price point? Bingo. If you're after the bare-bones basics to get from point A to point B for under $100, these are the tool for the job. We've tested a good deal of products from REI's Trailmade line and, overall, are extremely impressed with the balance of quality and price. While these wouldn't be our top choice for gnarly expeditions or long thru-hikes across the country, for more casual adventuring in milder climates we can't think of a better option for the price. They have kept us dry in some significant prolonged rain, and fit adequately well. They are a bit baggy for our taste, but this allows you to easily layer underneath, and the fabric is quieter than other pants we tested.

At 7.8 ounces, the Trailmade pants are noticeably lighter and more packable than many models here (including our top-ranked Torrentshell above), but they only have one pocket (zippered on the rear) and an extremely basic feature set. Additionally, the polyester fabric isn't as durable, breathable, or premium as others on this list, such as pants with Pertex (like the Helium Pants) or Gore-Tex (like the Beta AR) waterproofing. That said, we were impressed at how long it took the Trailmade to wet out—in line with many other user reviews on these pants' moisture resistance. The sizing is another common complaint we've read about, with comments all over the place—some stating they are drastically oversized, others saying undersized—so we decided to go with the "short" (which is 2.5 inches shorter than regular), and we're glad we did. Regular would have been much too long (our male tester is 5'10" and ~165 lbs. for reference). For this reason, we'd recommend trying them on in the store beforehand if possible. Finally, we wish there was a longer venting zipper, but that boils down more to personal preference. In the end, if you can handle our qualms above, the Trailmade is a great way for the budget-conscious adventurer to save some cash.
See the Men's REI Trailmade Rain Pants  See the Women's REI Trailmade Rain Pants
 

Best Ultralight Rain Pants

3. Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants ($149)

Weight: 3.0 oz.
Material: Vertice ripstop nylon with tricot lining
Zipper length: N/A
What we like: Incredibly lightweight and minuscule pack size; quite durable for its weight.
What we don’t: No zippered pockets or side zips; tapered fit limits layering.

No, that's not a typo. Sneeze and they're gone, the light-as-air Vertice Pants from Zpacks barely register on the scale at 3 ounces all in. While you give up some creature comforts of the more featured pants here, for ultralight adventures—from months-long thru-hikes to fast and light weekend missions—these are an extremely popular pick. They pack down smaller than most pants we own—easily fitting into the palm of your hand—yet boast impressive durability. While we personally haven't done an entire thru-hike with these, the Vertice is the steed of choice for many a seasoned trail-trotter trekking across the country. We know several thru-hikers who managed to baby one pair throughout their entire journey. Zpacks' Vertice ripstop nylon fabric is surprisingly waterproof given its weight (with a water pressure resistance of 20,000mm or more), and a tricot lining helps wick moisture from your skin resulting in standout breathability.

Our quibbles with these rain pants are more objective trade-offs rather than dings with the design. To achieve such a shockingly low weight, they had to sacrifice durability and several important features. For starters, there are no pockets or zippered vents, and only a simple adjustable drawcord at the waist. They also have a slimmer fit than many on this list to cull ounces, which means it's hard to slide them on over your shoes when the skies open up (even harder given the lack of zipper vents), and it can be tricky to layer underneath. That said, if weight is the utmost priority, this is a time-tested design that will disappear in your pack, but keep you safe and dry when needed.
See the Men's Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants  See the Women's Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants
 

Best Rugged Hardshell Rain Pants

4. Arc'teryx Beta AR Pant ($500)

Weight: 1 lb. 0.6 oz.
Material: 80D Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro
Zipper length: Side thigh and ankle
What we like: Bomb-proof durability and waterproofness with a best-in-class feature set.
What we don’t: Very expensive; not nearly as light and packable as other options here; tapered fit limits layering.

If the REI Trailmade above is the Honda Accord of our rain pants collection, the Beta AR is the Porsche 911—with the lofty price tag to accompany it. While the sticker shock alone may be enough to keep people scrolling, this is undeniably one of the most premium waterproof/hardshell pants on the market from a well-established, reputable brand. For truly heinous missions in harsh, variable conditions, you'll be happy you dropped the extra dough on this impenetrable workhorse. With rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro fabric and 100D Cordura PowderCuffs kickplates near the ankle, these pants can fend off some serious torture yet somehow maintain a respectable weight at just over a pound and pack down smaller than the durability would suggest. This makes the Beta AR great for high-altitude alpine adventures where weight and speed are paramount, but maximum weather protection is required. We've even worn these as waterproof riding pants on motorcycle tours. Plus, a drop seat, articulated knees and seat, and a gusseted crotch afford standout comfort and freedom of movement, making these some of the better-fitting (and looking) pants we own. If that wasn't enough, there's even an integrated gator to help fend off snow.

When the pace picks up, side zips at the thigh can quickly open to dump heat and boost ventilation—and are fitted with dual zippers to customize airflow and fit. Ankle zips at the base allow you to slide the pants on over your shoes but don't open as wide as we'd like, making it difficult to fit these pants over bulky mountaineering boots. Other cons with pants this stalwart are rather obvious—the weight of just over a pound being our main gripe. This is respectable considering what the pants are capable of, but some corners had to be cut to get there. For one, there is only one pocket (on the thigh), and the fit is a bit tight through the legs, making layering and sliding the pants over shoes more of a chore. This does give the Beta AR a more stylish silhouette than most other rain pants—if you're into that sort of thing in the mountains. All told the $500 Beta AR Pant may be too pricey, niche, and specced out for most casual adventures. But for those who venture high into the greater ranges or are constantly bombarded with heinous weather, the premium dependability may be worth it. 
See the Men's Arc'teryx Beta AR Pant  See the Women's Arc'teryx Beta AR Pant 

Best Emergency Rain Pants

5. Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 Waterproof Rain Suit ($30)

Weight: 4.0 oz. (pants); 12.8 oz. (full suit)
Material: Frogg Toggs breathable non-woven fabric
Zipper length: N/A
What we like: Affordable, lightweight, packable, and relatively durable.
What we don’t: Not nearly as durable or featured as many models here.

Let's get down to brass tacks: These are definitely emergency pants and not to be relied upon for serious outdoor use. Don't just jump on the low price tag simply because it's appealing—the Frogg Toggs suit comes in handy in a pinch, but it will rip and fail quite easily. However, at four ounces for the pants, and just 12.8 ounces for the full suit (jacket and pants combo), this offers impressive waterproof performance for ultralight missions where durability isn't a key concern. That said, our author ventured into the San Juan mountains in waist-deep snow with this suit on a thru-hike of the CDT and came out the other side alive—though the pants looked like they went through a blender by the end of it. We'd recommend snagging these for a bugout kit, to keep in your car for just-in-case scenarios, or as a backup emergency pair on adventures with another primary pant taking the lead.

Frogg Toggs' proprietary non-woven fabric is waterproof but wets out quicker than many materials, and isn't as breathable as we had hoped. There are no pockets and no side zips, which limits ventilation and makes it tricky to put these pants on over boots. A simple elastic waistband holds the pants up but wears out quickly—we wish they had opted to include a cinch cord. While there are obvious downfalls to this option, the ability to snag a fully waterproof jacket and pants ensemble for a mere $30 is a score in our books, and we can vouch for the fabric's adequate performance. Our pair served us well for nearly 100 miles of pretty full-on, non-stop use. It was retired shortly after but lasted longer than we had anticipated. As a backup to your go-to rain pants, or for budget ultralight objectives in mild conditions, this is a viable option to consider.
See the Men's Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 Suit  See the Women's Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 Suit

Best Stretchy Rain Pants

6. Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Pants ($175)

Weight: 9.3 oz.
Material: Dry.Q 2.5L ripstop polyester
Zipper length: Thigh
What we like: Stellar flexibility and freedom of movement, above-average breathability, quiet fabric.
What we don’t: Fabric wets out faster than others and isn't as durable,on the pricey side.

Hikers, mountaineers, and all-around adventurers laud the Stretch Ozonic Pants for truly living up to their name: These trousers are stretchy. The Dry.Q 2.5L polyester fabric used for these pants makes them the most mobile model we tested, and they are perfect for dynamic outdoor activities like fast-packing, peak-bagging, or even rock climbing. Keep in mind that these tend to wet out a bit faster than sturdier, less flexible models, but they will keep you dry for many hours in the right conditions. At 9.3 ounces they boast an impressively light weight and roll up tiny, easily disappearing in a backpacking or climbing pack. They have a soft next-to-skin feel and aren't nearly as noisy as other pants we tested. The fabric is breathable on its own, but thigh-high zippers allow for even more customizable ventilation and easily slide over clunky hiking boots. While handwarmer pockets would have been nice, we appreciate the location of the single zippered pocket on the thigh.

Though they aren't as weatherproof as other models here, the Stretch Ozonic are still great pants for the active athlete looking for lightweight protection that flawlessly moves with you in the mountains. They are more breathable than many rain pants we tested and feel downright cozy while parkouring down dried river beds or contorting your body on desperate alpine scrambles. This light, breezy feel does come at a cost, though. While the Stretch Ozonics have held up to more torture than we anticipated, they still lack the bombproof durability of other models here, such as our top-ranked Torrentshell above. Also, as mentioned above, they tend to wet out faster than many we tested. These qualms aside, for comfy weather protection in shorter storms on ultralight, fast-paced missions, these are just about as good as it gets.
See the Men's Stretch Ozonic Pants  See the Women's Stretch Ozonic Pants

Other Rain Pants We Love

7. Black Diamond Fineline Stretch Full Zip Rain Pants ($155)

Weight: 9.7 oz.
Material: BD.dry 2.5L nylon
Zipper length: Full leg
What we like: Lightweight dependability with a full-length zipper.
What we don’t: Tapered fit limits layering; some may not prefer a full-leg zip.

We've been fans of Black Diamond's Fineline line of rain gear for a long time, so had high hopes for the Stretch Rain Pants—and they delivered. We've been rocking the Fineline Rain Jacket for a while now, most recently on a backpacking trip in Wyoming's Wind River Range, with very positive results, and the pants have matched this performance. Still, while the 2.5-layer BD.dry waterproof and breathable fabric fends off hours of rain, it will wet out after significant prolonged use, especially if there is any skin-to-fabric contact. But when we wear full hiking pants underneath the Fineline, we stay dry in all-day drizzle—impressive given the tiny 9.7-ounce scale reading and stellar packability. Despite the light weight, the pants boast a full-length side zipper, boosting ventilation and making them incredibly easy to slide on and off, no matter how hefty your footwear is.

While we love the functionality of a full-leg zipper, not everyone prefers this design and it does add weight and bulk. It can also feel a bit uncomfortable when wearing a backpack hipbelt or climbing harness since the zipper comes all the way up to the waistband. Black Diamond did a good job of keeping the zip as low-profile as possible, but we do inevitably feel it. Also, with only one zippered back pocket, storage is a bit limited. Finally, though we prefer the slightly tapered, closer fit of the Fineline, some may prefer a more baggy cut for ease of layering underneath. The gusset seat and articulated knees greatly increase mobility, though, making these some of our favorite pants for fast-paced hiking. All told, Black Diamond's Fineline rain gear is time-tested, rugged technology from one of the most reputable brands in the game. For lightweight dependability in the mountains, you can't go wrong with these sleek, thoughtfully designed rain pants. 
See the Men's Fineline Stretch Rain Pants  See the Men's Fineline Stretch Rain Pants

8. Marmot PreCip Eco Pants ($100)

Weight: 8.0 oz.
Material: Marmot NanoPro
Zipper length: Ankle
What we like: Great waterproof performance; well-rounded feature set; light weight and small packed size; robust sizing options.
What we don’t: Not as durable or premium as other offerings here; non-waterproof zippers on handwarmer pockets; runs large; loud, swishy fabric.

We splashed around in two top rain pants from Marmot as we built this guide: the PreCip Eco and Marmot's new Minimalist Pertex Pants ($150)—and both passed our tests with flying colors. We decided to feature the more budget-friendly PreCip Eco due to its balance of cost and performance and sustainable construction—both increasingly important considerations—but each pant is a stellar pick. While the PreCip Eco served us well on casual adventures such as backpacking trips on groomed trails and light scrambling, the boost in durability and premium features on the Minimalist Pertex may be a better option for more demanding missions. What we appreciate in the Patagonia Torrentshell above we found the PreCip Eco also delivers in spades. Namely, no-nonsense performance with a dialed-in feature set at an attractive price point. For $100, you get passable durability and reliable waterproofing, two zippered handwarmer pockets and a back zip pocket, ankle side zips with snap tabs, and a burly elastic waist with a cinch closure—wrapped up in a respectably small and lightweight eight-ounce package. 

In these regards, the PreCip Eco trumps the Torrentshell and Minimalist Pertex—which clock in at 11.8 ounces and 11 ounces respectively, and don't cram down as small—but Patagonia's offering and the Minimalist are more durable. The zippers on the PreCip are also not waterproof (as they are on the Minimalist Pertex), and water can seep under the storm flaps that cover the zippers. We have had years of luck with the Pertex Shield waterproofing found on the Minimalist, but Marmot's NanoPro fabric employed on the PreCip Eco doesn't inspire as much confidence. That said, while the PreCip won't fend off moisture as long as its burlier sibling, it performed impressively in testing and kept us dry for hours of driving rain. All told, the PreCip Eco Pants don't offer anything flashy and techy—but that's not always what you need. Note: We appreciate that Marmot also offers the PreCip in a short and long length for more inclusive sizing. We generally wear a medium (our male tester is 5'10" and ~165 lbs.) but found the regular-length medium to be too long and baggy for us—so you may consider sizing down. It is also offered in a full-zip iteration for $120, if that's your jam. 
See the Men's Marmot PreCip Eco Pants  See the Women's Marmot PreCip Eco Pants

9. Outdoor Research Helium Rain Pants ($130)

Weight: 11.3 oz.
Material: Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse 2.5L nylon
Zipper length: Ankle
What we like: Relatively affordable; solid durability and breathability; thoughtful feature set.
What we don’t: Previous iterations were much lighter; only one pocket.

The Outdoor Research Helium line used to be a thru-hiker staple for ultralight dependability over months of use. Our author used the pants and jacket on a thru-hike of the PCT in 2018—and still holds on to his shredded jacket for sentimental reasons. OR's current Ultralight Helium Jacket still offers competitive UL specs, but the Helium Pants are now significantly heavier than older iterations (which hovered around six ounces if memory serves), making them less attractive for us trail-trotting gram weenies. While we bemoan the weight increase, they are still a time-tested design crafted to last the distance—and deserve a place in this guide. The 2.5L Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse fabric fends off some seriously gnarly weather and resists wetting out for hours, and the material is surprisingly breathable when the pace picks up. A gusseted crotch improves range of motion, and ankle zips easily slide over bulky hiking boots. We appreciate the inclusion of grip tape along the waistband, which—coupled with a tight elastic waistband and drawcord—ensures minimal slipping and provides a nearly watertight seal against your skin. 

The feature set is dialed, but we do find ourselves wishing for more than one pocket. Additionally, the fabric is a bit more crinkly than others we tested, and the Helium is more tapered than others, limiting layering. The kicker for us, however, is the high weight. While 11.3 ounces is still respectably light (and in line with our top-rated Torrentshell above), it's such a dramatic bump up from the streamlined six-ounce package of old. This was the perfect balance for us between paper-thin three-ounce options like the Zpacks Vertice above and heavier, more traditional models. It was light enough to be ultralight, but durable enough for some simple off-trail exploration. For this reason, we won't be bringing the current Helium on truly ultralight backpacking missions, though they still do have a use case. They match the Torrentshell at $130, making them a solid value pick. And we would place the Helium in a similar camp as Patagonia's pants, falling somewhere in the middle between minimalist ultralight models and specced-out hardshell tanks like the Arc'teryx Beta AR. If you're a die-hard OR Helium fan, these still have loads to offer.
See the Men's Helium Rain Pants  See the Women's Helium Rain Pants

10. Montbell Versalite Pants ($145)

Weight: 3.2 oz.
Material: 2L Gore Windstopper
Zipper length: N/A
What we like: Incredibly lightweight in a time-tested design; impressive water resistance weight.
What we don’t: Minimal feature set; no zippered vents; no pockets; not very durable.

Going head to head with the Zpacks Vertice above, the barely-there 3.2-ounce Montbell Versalite Pants are another go-to model for the dedicated ultralight thru-hiker. In line with the Vertice, the Versalite is about as bare-bones as it gets: A simple elastic band keeps the pants up, and an included stuff sack allows you to cram them down small. Aside from that, there isn't much to speak of, though Montbell did integrate a simple elastic band into the pant cuff as a way of closing off or shortening the bottom of the pant leg. This "Samue System" is apparently based on a simple technique traditionally used by Zen monks in Japan. A neat touch that works surprisingly well. For waterproofing, Montbell opted for Gore's Windstopper 2L fabric, which boasts impressive breathability and water resistance for its weight and fends off prolonged rain with a water pressure resistance of 20,000mm or more (the same as the Vertice). The 10-denier ripstop nylon is quite fragile, though, and you'll want to avoid off-trail travel if possible.

Other cons are pretty standard with a pant this minimal, namely an essentially nonexistent feature set, no pockets or zippered vents, and minimal stretch baked into the fabric. We give the edge to the Zpacks Vertice for a few reasons: The Vertice is slightly lighter (0.2 ounces), we find it to be more breathable (56,000+ vs. 43,000 g/m²/day), and the tricot lining has a nicer next-to-skin feel. Furthermore, the Vertice includes a shock cord at the waist, which comes in handy as the elastic band starts to wear out. That said, the Vertice fabric is a flimsy 7-denier, while the Windstopper on the Versalite is a slightly beefier 10-denier and a whoppin' $4 cheaper. Are we splitting hairs here? Perhaps. But that's par for the course with the ultralight cult. All told, it's hard to go wrong with either of these featherlight options, and we know many thru-hikers who have clocked 3,000+ miles in both of these models. Just steer clear of briar patches.
See the Men's Montbell Versalite Pants  See the Women's Montbell Versalite Pants

Rain Pant Comparison Table

About Our Testing Process

From last-minute weekend forays in the mountains to full-blown thru-hikes across the country, the Switchback Travel team is no stranger to long days in the backcountry in all manner of rain pants. We've taken a vast selection of waterproof pants on snowy expeditions in the Himalayas, long slogs through rainy Appalachia, and countless other adventures to narrow in on the streamlined selection of 10 models above. We know the importance of lightweight and waterproof pants for all-day comfort in the backcountry, and you won't find us trotting around in just any trousers. Senior editor Chris Carter created this guide in early 2025 and is a seasoned thru-hiker, rock climber, and all-around outdoorsman. He has completed the Triple Crown of long trails in the U.S. (AT, PCT, and CDT) and continues to backpack and explore all over the world.

We meticulously tested countless top-rated rain pants, drawing from personal experiences as well as feedback from seasoned contributors and the outdoor community as a whole, and focused on key factors when making our decisions. Weight, breathability, waterproofness, durability, and ventilation are all primary considerations when we consider what to include in the list above (with waterproofness taking top precendence, of course). Each pair had to stand out in several—if not all—categories to merit our attention. Finally, we know the competition for the rain pants podium is fierce and constantly evolving, which is why we slot this guide into an iterative update schedule to stay on top of current trends and new designs. We add standouts to our list along the way and ensure our existing reviews stay up-to-date. Note: This round-up specifically covers technical waterproof pants. We have other comprehensive guides exploring the best hiking pants, more durable ski and snowboard pants, and casual men's and women's travel pants. All of these articles are worth checking out to further round out your adventure apparel wardrobe. 
 

Rain Pant Buying Advice

• Do You Need Rain Pants?
• Rain Pant Categories
  • Ultralight/Thru-Hiking
  • All-Around
  • Hardshell/Rugged
• Weight and Packed Size
• Materials and Waterproofing
• Side Zippers and Pockets
• Thickness and Durability
• Ventilation and Breathability
• Mobility and Fit
• Sustainability
   

Do You Need Rain Pants?

This truly boils down to personal preference, the type of adventure at hand, and the temperatures you plan to encounter on your excursion. The short answer is no—rain pants aren't nearly as necessary as a rain jacket for outdoor adventures. But more comprehensive full-body weather protection is often merited (or even required) in heinous conditions or colder climates. From a long-distance backpacking background, we tend to prioritize weight and minimalism on our treks, wearing just a rain jacket and lightweight running shorts in everything but the coldest of torrential downpours. This system works fine for shoulder-season missions, but venture out in the winter or higher altitudes, and waterproof protection for your legs could be a must. Rain pants serve many purposes: Protection from mud and grime, prevention of hypothermia, comfort around camp, preservation of vital insulating layers on long trips, and others. We know many adventurers who won't leave home without them. So are they right for you? Our buying advice below may help you decide.
 

Rain Pant Categories

Rain pants—like most outdoor apparel—come in all shapes and sizes and are crafted for a wide variety of uses. Some provide just the basics for casual outdoor use, while others are catered specifically for light and fast backpackers going the distance. Pricier, more burly rain pants can fringe on the hardshell end of the spectrum and are geared towards alpine climbers venturing into the greater ranges. Carefully consider the type of environment you plan to adventure in before deciding on a pair.
 

Ultralight/Thru-Hiking
The ultralight cult is about as persnickety as they get when it comes to parsing ounces and grams—and rain pants are no exception. To meet the ever-increasing demand for featherlight but functional rain gear, many brands have created truly ultralight waterproof pants that barely register in your pack. As may be expected, weight and pack size are prioritized here. This means robust feature sets, durability, and cozy fabrics are often put on the back burner. We highlight two of the most popular ultralight rain pants for backpacking above: the Montbell Versalite Pants and Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants. Both of these pants hover around a shockingly low three ounces, pack down to a minuscule size, and have a bare-bones feature set. Don't expect to find zippered vents, pockets, waist closures, or cinch pulls on pants in this category. However, if you're chasing that elusive five-pound base weight for speedy treks across the country—or just fast and light weekend missions—you'll appreciate the lack of bulk and simple design. These pants can be popular amongst fastpackers, peak baggers, and even lightweight alpine climbers who don't need loads of durability.
 

All-Around
Most of the rain pants we tested fall into the "jack of all trades, master of none" in-between category and are suited for a wide range of climates and adventures. They aren't overly specialized for lightning-fast ultralight objectives and don't boast as much rugged durability as their hardshell siblings discussed below. Rather, these pants prioritize thoughtful feature sets, relaxed fits for layering underneath, passable durability, and overall comfort. They also tend to fringe on the affordable end of the spectrum. Our top-ranked model, the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Pant, is the poster child of this category. With plenty of pockets, generous thigh-length zippers, and durable but light fabric, it's billed more for comfort and light adventuring than anything truly rugged. 
 

The Torrentshell is one of our favorite pants for lounging around camp on drizzly days and casual hiking in the rain, but it also has plenty of chops for longer, more demanding adventures. The nearly 12-ounce weight makes these pants less attractive for lightweight backpacking, but we'll still throw these in our pack for multi-day trips where weight isn't the primary concern. Other pants we love in this camp are the budget-friendly $70 REI Trailmade Rain Pants and $100 Marmot PreCip Eco Pants. The slightly more specialized Outdoor Research Helium and Black Diamond Fineline Stretch pants also fall under this umbrella. In the end, if you want a quiver-of-one pant to do it all, these are the britches you should seek out.
 

Hardshell/Rugged
The durable workhorses of the bunch. Waterproof pants in this category are geared for gnarly expeditions in the greater ranges, snowy alpine climbs, or adventures in environments with truly unforgiving downpours. Expect to find bombproof fabrics with premium waterproofing (like Gore-Tex Pro or Lifa Infinity Pro), reinforced high-wear areas, and decked-out feature sets on these pants. You can also count on the price tag to give you serious pause. Keep in mind that the thicker fabrics and better waterproofing make these much heavier and bulkier than most pants we featured above, but the extra protection is well worth it for certain scenarios. For example, the Arc'teryx Beta AR uses an N80d Most Rugged 3L Gore-Tex Pro shell, which boasts an extremely high water pressure resistance exceeding 28,000mm hydrostatic head (HH) (more on HH ratings in our Materials and Waterproofing section below). Our top-ranked Torrentshell, by comparison, features Patagonia's H2No Performance Standard fabric with an HH rating of around 20,000mm. Still impressive, but not nearly as formidable as the Beta AR.
 

We narrowed in on the $500 Arc'teryx Beta AR Pant as our favorite model in this camp, since it is versatile enough to be used on nail-biting alpine ascents or gnarly backcountry treks alike. Some pants are so specialized they really only make sense for use in high altitudes, but we've rocked the Beta AR on bushwhacks in torrential downpours and lower-elevation mountain ascents with stellar results. They are also one of our favorite models to wear over our riding pants on long motorcycle tours for all day protection in the rain. Others we know employ them for snowboarding and skiing as well. While most people won't need a waterproof pant this stalwart, it's an important category to call out for those venturing into the more wild, far-flung corners of our planet. In addition to the Beta AR, we've also had great luck with Helly Hansen's Odin 9 Worlds Infinity Shell Pants ($425) for similar casual objectives. La Sportiva's Supercouloir GTX Pro Pant ($549) is our favorite popular high-end technical hardshell pant designed specifically for extreme mountaineering missions. 
 

Weight and Packed Size

Weight is an important consideration for a lot of folks shopping for rain pants—but not everybody. Some users are after simple waterproof protection for frontcountry travel or light outdoor use and won't be schlepping their gear for miles into the mountains. Others, like ultralight backpackers, prioritize a low weight over everything else, whereas mountaineers and off-trail explorers will swallow the extra ounces for added durability. The weight you go with boils down to your comfort threshold and the type of adventures you plan to embark on. The pants reviewed above range from three-ounce minimal models that will blow away in a light breeze (like Zpacks' Vertice), to bulky hardshell pants clocking in at over a pound (like Arc'teryx's Beta AR).

Correlating with weight is rain pants' pack size—another important factor for adventurers across the spectrum. Packed size fluctuates depending on the fabric's durability, add-ons like bulky full-length zippers, and the number of pockets. A pant may have a lower scale reading but still be bulky due to its robust feature set. Packed size may not matter much for car campers or mountaineers on long expeditions, but for long-distance backpackers with very limited pack space, it's one of the first things to look at. The pants we tested come in varying sizes, from the Montbell Versalite that fits in the palm of your hand to Marmot's thicker Minimalist Pertex Pants that can cram down to about the size of a Nalgene.
 

Materials and Waterproofing

The materials that brands choose to construct their pants with determine several key factors, including breathability, mobility, price, and waterproofness. All of the pants in our lineup are made with waterproof fabric, but in order to not feel like a clammy trash bag, there is some breathability baked into the material (more on this below). Consequentially, while these fabrics will often last for hours to a full day without wetting out, persistent rain will eventually seep through. Rain pants have varying degrees of waterproofing depending on their intended use, which is measured in millimeters using what is called a Hydrostatic Head (HH) test. To determine the HH rating of a pant, the fabric is pulled taut under a 1-inch diameter sealed tube of water. The tube is then painstakingly observed over a 24-hour period to determine how many millimeters of water the fabric can support before the moisture penetrates the material.
 

As a general rule, windbreaker material will have a rating far below 1,500mm — the British Standard minimum to be considered a waterproof layer. Most technical rain jackets and casual rain pants clock in at a respectable 5,000 to 20,000mm, with burly hard shell pants and jackets at the battle-ready end of the spectrum boasting ratings of up to 30,000mm (30m). As mentioned above, the toughest waterproof pant we tested was Arc'teryx's Beta AR, with a HH rating of over 28,000mm in its Gore-Tex Pro shell. An HH rating isn't always readily advertised by brands but can be a helpful indicator of how well your pants will perform in prolonged precipitation. Pants with a higher HH rating also tend to be heavier and bulkier, and not everyone needs such high levels of moisture protection.
 

Side Zippers and Pockets

Rain storms can pop up out of nowhere. In a surprise shower, the last thing you want to do is remove your shoes and take a load of time to slide your rain gear on. Deep side zippers help you splay open the base—or the entire side of the pants in the case of many models—and easily slip them on over bulky hiking or mountaineering boots. Since these are designed to be layered underneath, most rain pants are quite oversized, with plenty of room for regular or insulated pants underneath. This also helps you slip them on over your shoes. We prefer at least large ankle zips on our rain pants, but some are more generous than others. We were a bit disappointed with the side ankle-length zips of the Arc'teryx Beta AR in this regard. They don't allow the pants to open up much at the base, making it quite a chore to slide over chunky mountaineering boots—which is compounded by the slim tapered fit along the thighs. Side zippers also help with ventilation when your pace picks up, especially on models like Patagonia's Torrentshell, which use cuff-to-thigh vents with two-way zippers to vent the sides while keeping the cuffs closed.
 

Pocket layouts on rain pants—especially ultralight models—are generally more minimal than we would like. To cut weight and bulk and ensure a more watertight construction, it's rare to see several pockets on these trousers. Pants like the REI Trailmade only have one zippered pocket—which is helpful for stashing a few items—but we prefer the layout on pants like Patagonia's Torrentshell with at least two handwarmer pockets. These pockets are quite important for us, as we like to shove our gloved hands in them while hiking in the rain and slide the sleeves of our rain jacket over the pocket to keep water from dripping in. This is one of the best methods we've found for keeping our hands warm and dry in the backcountry, and we even prefer it to wearing waterproof gloves.
 

Thickness and Durability

Rain pants aren't the most durable category of outdoor apparel. They are generally designed to take up as little of your pack volume as possible and not weigh you down—which translates to less durability. That said, if you baby them a bit more than regular hiking pants, they can hold up to years of abuse in gnarly conditions. Even flimsy ultralight models like Montbell's Versalite Pants regularly accompany thru-hikers on multi-month epics across the country before failing. The longevity of rain pants is partially linked with the thickness of its fabrics, which is measured in denier (often abbreviated to just “D”)—a unit of measurement that indicates how thick and heavy a fabric is. Not all manufacturers publish this specification, but it's a helpful indicator of how long the pants may last in normal conditions. Pants like the featherlight Zpacks Vertice feature flimsy 7-denier fabric, whereas the more durable Arc'teryx's Beta AR, built to handle the rigors of off-trail travel and mountaineering objectives, is decorated with a burly 80- and 100-denier shell. The Beta AR will obviously withstand much more abuse in the backcountry but tips the scale at over a pound compared to the light-as-air three-ounce Vertice.
 

Ventilation and Breathability

As with most outdoor gear, there is always a dance between a robust feature set, weight, and bulk. Rain pant developers face the difficult challenge of creating lightweight, packable, waterproof pants that are breathable, ventilated, and durable. No small task. One solution to minimize moisture buildup is zippered side vents, allowing you to quickly dump heat while trekking or when the sun peaks out during a storm. Side vents separate from the main side zip extending to the ankle aren't as common on more casual rain pants. They are often featured on more specialized models like Arc'teryx's Beta AR pictured below. However, some pants like Patagonia's Torrentshell employ cuff-to-thigh vents with two-way zippers, which helps to customize ventilation.
 

The breathability of waterproof fabric varies and is a measurement of a fabric's moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR). It is expressed in terms of g/m²/day, or the mass of moisture that passes through a square meter of fabric in 24 hours. Generally, thicker, more water-resistant fabrics with more layers won't be as breathable as dedicated ultralight designs. Breathable fabrics are a key element of outdoor gear—especially waterproof apparel—to help you regulate temperature and moisture buildup during active movement. Wearing minimally breathable fabrics will lead to your insulating layers getting wet from the inside due to trapped perspiration, which could be dangerous in extreme conditions. Water is more thermally conductive than air, so wet clothing can consequently feel much colder than dry clothing, potentially leading to hypothermia. Pairing breathable waterproof materials with strategic zippered vents allows outdoor brands to make weather-proof apparel that can be worn during activities like backpacking or alpine climbing. 
 

Mobility and Fit

"Stylish" is flat near the end of the list of adjectives we'd use to describe rain pants. Most models we tested are boxy and downright unflattering—but this is by design to a certain degree. Rain pants will almost always be worn over your hiking pants, shorts, or even insulated pants, and therefore need to have plenty of room underneath for layering. They also need to afford freedom of movement for active pursuits like hiking and scrambling, and it's difficult to design truly waterproof fabrics with adequate built-in stretch.

The most flexible pair we tested was the Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Pants. The fabric used on these pants is shockingly stretchy, and while they aren't as waterproof as others in our lineup, they still impressed us with their long wet-out time. For fast-paced adventures requiring a lot of dynamic movement, we'd direct you to the Ozonics. We also experienced a good deal of fluctuation in the fit between models and brands when ordering the same size across the board. Some, like Marmot's offerings, were way too long for us in a regular medium (though Marmot's PreCip Eco Pants are offered in short and long iterations), whereas a medium in the Ozonics fit us perfectly. If you have the chance, we'd recommend trying these on in-store before purchasing.
 

Sustainability

We appreciate when companies go the extra mile toward creating more sustainability-built products, and the most common practice in the rain pant world is the use of recycled fabrics and PFAS-free DWR coatings (traditional coatings use per- or polyfluorinated chemicals—"forever chemicals" known to be harmful to the environment). Many of the picks above are made with at least some recycled content, including designs like the 100% recycled nylon Patagonia Torrentshell and Marmot PreCip Eco Pants. Other measures to look out for include certification to the Fair Trade standard and bluesign-approved materials. Leading brands of the sustainability movement in rain pants include Patagonia, REI Co-op, and Marmot, although most of the companies above have started incorporating at least some of these practices into production.
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