Bottom Line
The REI Rainier (men’s / women’s) is the affordable general-purpose option we would consider before spending substantially more on a specialty shell. Testing across Cascades day hikes and multiweek Colorado outings supports its dependable mix of weather protection, comfort, and basic features.
Pit zips, articulated sleeves, interior drop pockets, and an adjustable hood are welcome features at this price. It is less durable than premium models and can be fussy to stuff into its own pocket.
For more options, see our Best Rain Jackets guide.
How We Tested
Miles Knotek wore the Rainier in the Cascades and on extended Colorado outings, assessing fit with a pack, light-to-moderate rain protection, and ventilation while exerting himself. He also monitored how the waterproof finish performed during steady rain and how the fabric and inner layers held up around high-friction areas.
Quick Specs
REI Rainier
Best Budget Rain Jacket
CleverHiker Rating: 4.1/5.0
Price: $100
Listed Weight: 11.3 oz. / 9.9 oz.(men’s / women’s)
# of Vents: 2
Pros
- Excellent low price
- Useful pit zips and hood adjustment
- Unrestricted sleeves
Cons
- Runs large in torso
- Wets out in extended heavy rain
- Laminate and mesh show wear
Comfort & Mobility
Our tester found the Rainier’s arms unrestricted but the torso quite roomy. Sizing down made the jacket fit much better without shortening the sleeves noticeably. The hood adjustments and soft chin guard add practical comfort.
The roomy torso is particularly noticeable in a men’s medium, while the arms allow reaching without restriction. Sizing down improved the fit for our tester, so trying two sizes is worthwhile. A comfortable chin guard and adjustable hood make this jacket more pleasant in wind and drizzle than its price suggests.
Comfort & Mobility Score: 4.3/5.0
Weather Resistance
The Rainier performed well during the first couple of hours of light-to-moderate rain. In prolonged heavy rain, fabric around cuffs and front seams began wetting out and dried slowly. This limits our recommendation to shorter outings rather than sustained storm exposure.
Initially, the face fabric shed light-to-moderate precipitation effectively. After repeated exposure to steady rain, the cuffs and seam areas began wetting out, and once saturated the fabric took longer to dry. People expecting only brief showers may never reach that limit; travelers planning hours in heavy rain should choose a more protective shell.
Weather Resistance Score: 4.3/5.0
Ventilation
Pit zips have long pulls that are easy to grab under a pack. Even when opened, our tester found sweat collecting around the back, shoulders, and armpits. Lower-output hiking is a better match for its ventilation.
The long pulls make the underarm zippers practical even with backpack straps and gloves. But opening those vents did not eliminate sweat buildup on steep hikes, so the jacket remains a stronger choice for moderate effort. A more breathable or extensively vented shell will be more comfortable for fast uphill work.
Ventilation Score: 4.3/5.0
Durability
The waterproof laminate showed wear near shoulders and waist over time. Its inner mesh pockets can snag, and rain resistance declined after repeated wetting out. The affordable price does not mean it can replace a heavy-use alpine shell.
Wear developed where a backpack exerted repeated friction at the shoulders and waist, and the mesh pockets were easy to catch on gear. These observations help explain why its low cost should not be mistaken for expedition-grade durability. For occasional hikes the compromise can be acceptable; repeated high-mileage trips demand more robust construction.
Durability Score: 4.3/5.0
Weight
At 11.3 ounces on our scale, the Rainier is a manageable weight for day hikes. It folds into its own pocket, though getting it packed takes some care. For most day hikes the added weight over minimalist shells is a manageable tradeoff.
Because the Rainier packs into its own pocket, it is easy to keep with a daypack or travel kit. Stuffing it neatly takes more effort than packing some minimalist jackets, and it isn’t among the lightest options. Its practical adjustments and budget price are better reasons to purchase than ultralight performance.
Weight Score: 4.3/5.0
Should You Buy the REI Rainier?
Buy the Rainier for short day hikes and routine wet-weather errands where a reasonable price matters most. It has more thoughtful features than a bare-bones budget shell, and sizing down helped our tester achieve a comfortable fit.
For repeated all-day rain and brushy backcountry use, the Patagonia Torrentshell is worth the additional expense. Our Rainier testing found that sustained downpours and repeated wear exposed limits in its fabric and waterproof finish.
What Other Rain Jackets Should You Consider?
REI Trailmade Rain Jacket Review: This costs $80 and is a sensible choice for low-exertion outings when rain is light and brief. It is warmer, heavier, and less protective than the Rainier, so the savings come with real consequences.
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Review: This costs considerably more, but its extended testing record supports sustained rain protection and better durability. It is the more appropriate option for frequent backcountry travel.
REI XeroCloud 3L Review: The XeroCloud adds soft stretch fabric, room for layers, and three-layer construction. It costs more, but is worth considering for regular wet and windy trips.
