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FYI

The men’s version of our upgrade pick, the Arc’teryx Beta AR Pant, is now back in stock, offering exceptional quality and performance for outdoor enthusiasts. This highly regarded pant combines durability with comfort, making it a top choice for those seeking reliable protection in challenging conditions. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your gear with the Arc’teryx Beta AR Pant!

Although you probably don’t need rain pants during lighter showers or warmer weather, a good pair of rain pants can make a significant difference in keeping you dry and comfortable when hiking in heavy rain or colder climates.

To find the best pair, we dedicated 45 hours to thorough research, consulting experts, conducting a rigorous wash test, and chasing rain through Oregon, Colorado, and Washington. Our extensive efforts ensure that we identify the most effective rain pants to protect you from the elements while enhancing your outdoor experience.

We chose Marmot’s PreCip Eco Pants, which come in men’s and women’s sizes, as the best rain pants for most people.

Water-resistant yet breathable, these rain pants come in multiple inseam lengths and feature a tailored cut for a comfortable fit. They offer practical details such as ankle zippers and side pockets, making them versatile for various outdoor activities. Additionally, they are more affordable than many of the other high-quality pants we tested, providing excellent value without compromising on performance.

Compared with the other rain pants we tested, Marmot’s 2.5-layer PreCip Eco Pants (available in both men’s and women’s versions) will keep you dry for a lower price. In our tests the water-repellent coating on the PreCip pants held up well during Oregon rainstorms, even after five hours of continuous washing. And the fabric felt breathable during a steamy hike in the Hoh Rain Forest at Washington’s Olympic National Park.

Although the PreCip pants are still roomy enough to move around in and to pull over base layers, they have a narrower cut than any other rain pants we tested and a better range of inseam lengths to fit people of different heights. (They don’t come in plus or petite sizes, however. For those options, check the Other good rain pants section.) With ankle zippers at the cuffs, these pants are easy to get on and off while you’re wearing boots. They’re also a few ounces lighter than most of the other rain pants we considered.

Patagonia’s Torrentshell 3L Pants (available in both men’s and women’s versions) are similar to our top pick but weigh an ounce more and are more expensive at this writing. The 3-layer ripstop nylon fabric of these pants looks and feels identical to our top choice, and the Torrentshell pants proved to be just as water-resistant and breathable during our rainy walks.

They feature longer ankle zippers that provide ventilation to cool your legs when partially opened, which we loved. However, Patagonia only offers two inseam options for the Torrentshell pants (short and regular, with no long option), which may be too short for some individuals. If the fit isn’t right for you, you might end up exposing damp, chilly ankles. Overall, these pants deliver quality performance for those seeking reliable rain protection.

The Arc’teryx Beta AR pants (available in both men’s and women’s versions) are the most insulating and durable rain pants we tested. If you’re simply looking for a pair to wait out a rainstorm, these may feel too heavy and robust. However, they excel in mountaineering adventures and winter storms. The key feature is their Gore-Tex Pro material, which is completely windproof and waterproof while remaining exceptionally lightweight. This results in a 3-layer construction that breathes well while keeping you dry.

We also appreciated the reinforced instep patches along the calves; the thicker fabric reduces the risk of ripping your pants with crampons or snowshoes. Additionally, these pants are likely to outlast our other picks due to their durable fabric. Keep in mind that Arc’teryx clothing tends to run narrow, so it’s advisable to try them on before purchasing. If you have mountain or winter hikes on the horizon, these pants may be worth the splurge—and they are quite the investment.

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The research

Why you should trust us

Who this is for

How we picked

How we tested

Our pick: Marmot PreCip Eco Pants

Runner-up: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Pants

Upgrade pick: Arc’teryx Beta AR Pant

Other good rain pants

The competition

Care and maintenance

Sources

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Why you should trust us

Jenni Gritters is a freelance journalist with nearly a decade of experience writing and editing product reviews, featuring bylines in Walletrays, Slate, and beyond. Formerly an editor on the Walletrays outdoors team (where she edited the first version of this guide), she now covers parenting, baby and kid gear, outdoor equipment, and travel essentials. Jenni resides in Bend, Oregon, with her husband and two children.

For this guide:

• we dedicated 15 hours over the years to thoroughly research men’s and women’s rain pants, analyzing 11 other guides in total. We considered articles from The Adventure Junkies, Backpacker, GearLab, and Outside, alongside numerous blog posts and forums. We also consulted REI’s handy rain-gear guide throughout our research and writing process to ensure comprehensive coverage.

• Walletrays Anna Perling wrote the first version of this guide in 2019, interviewing several rain-gear experts, including Susan Sokolowski, then the director of the sports product design program at the University of Oregon; Sean Michael, then the program director for the outdoor product design and development program at Utah State University; and Stephen Regenold, the founder of GearJunkie. She also spoke with Liz Thomas, an accomplished thru-hiker and former writer on the outdoors team at Walletrays.

• Avid hiker and photographer Kim Mock assisted with testing plus-size rain pants for this guide in 2022, compensated with a gift card for her efforts. Having lived in Colorado for nearly a decade, Kim provided valuable insights into the performance of these products.

• In the past, Jenni has collaborated with the REI Co-op Journal to create both journalistic and gear-focused content; any REI item she tested underwent evaluations by a backup tester to maintain objectivity.

• Like all Walletrays journalists, Jenni reviews and tests products with complete editorial independence. She is never made aware of any business implications related to her editorial recommendations. Read more about our editorial standards to understand our commitment to unbiased product evaluation.

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Who this is for

Rain pants are a just-in-case item that you’ll rarely need to take out of your bag—until you really, really do. If you’re hiking in a warmer climate, you probably don’t need rain pants. In fact, rain pants could make you too hot in milder conditions or cause chafing and discomfort while you’re sweating. Most rain pants are designed to keep water out, which also means they don’t allow sweat to escape. So, if you’re hiking only a short distance in warmer weather and won’t be wet for extended periods, it’s best to leave your rain pants behind.

The rain pants featured in this guide are intended for everyday hikers and backpackers—they’re not built for full-submersion situations like angler fishing or kayaking. However, we can attest to using our rain pants in non-hiking scenarios as well: we layer them over long johns for the occasional Portland, Oregon, snowstorm, don them for shoulder-season snowshoeing, or wear them while biking and during messy garden tasks. For a quick walk through the woods or muddy outdoor chores, any of our selected rain pants will perform admirably.

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Should I match my rain pants to my rain jacket?

All of our rain pant picks have matching jackets available. We’ve tried matching jackets from our picks from Marmot (men’s and women’s sizes) and Patagonia (men’s and women’s sizes) and liked them. We’re currently in the process of trying out the matching jacket to our new upgrade pick from Arc’teryx (men’s and women’s sizes) as well.

The major benefit of matching your pants to your jacket is that they fit together without gaps between them so you stay dry. They also tend to have similar fits, fabrics, and colors available, so you can match if you prefer. However, as long as your jacket is long enough to cover the waist of your pants, you can pair it with any rain jacket you want and still stay dry.

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How we picked

After thoroughly reviewing numerous websites and product reviews, we examined the top-rated and best-selling rain pant models that were widely available. From that extensive list of top models, we narrowed the selection based on the following key criteria:

Layers: Rain gear is categorized by the number of layers it comprises, with the industry generally dividing such gear into 2-, 2.5-, and 3-layer categories.

• 2-layer: This construction features a waterproof, breathable liner that hangs inside a protective outer fabric. While this type is typically less expensive and quieter—avoiding the swishy, trash-bag sounds—its breathability may be compromised.
• 2.5-layer: Unlike a garment with 2-layer construction, a 2.5-layer piece lacks a protective liner; instead, it features a laminate or coating. Despite its higher numeric designation, 2.5-layer rain gear is typically less durable than both 2-layer and 3-layer fabrics. However, it remains protective while being more affordable and lightweight.
• 3-layer: Designed for more intense usage and rugged environments, 3-layer fabric consists of a waterproof membrane—whose technology varies depending on the pants—sandwiched between an outer fabric (usually nylon or polyester) coated with durable water repellent (DWR) and an inner liner.

• Waterproofing: A good pair of rain pants should effectively keep water out. However, the required level of waterproofing or water resistance depends on your planned activities. If you’re trekking through a cold, very wet environment or hiking in rain for extended periods, completely waterproof pants are essential. Conversely, if you’re in a warmer climate or experiencing intermittent rain, a breathable pair of water-resistant pants might suffice. While water-resistant options are available, this guide exclusively reviewed rain pants that are 100% waterproof.

“[The term] waterproof [means it’s] a complete barrier to water, while water-resistant indicates that some water may penetrate,” explained Susan Sokolowski from the University of Oregon. “Usually, it’s a cost decision: fully waterproof pants tend to be more expensive. Additionally, they are typically less breathable, so you need to consider your specific conditions when choosing the right pair.”

• Materials: Most of the rain pants in this guide are coated with a DWR film and crafted from materials such as nylon, polyurethane, and polyester. We also tested Gore-Tex options; however, we found that a basic DWR coating performed nearly as well in keeping most people dry during typical hiking scenarios for about half the price—except for our upgrade pick, which features Gore-Tex Pro and proved to be the most waterproof and breathable option in our selection. “I think Gore-Tex is a great solution,” said Sokolowski. “[But] there are other membranes available that achieve similar results… It’s not the end-all and be-all.”

• Mobility: Since you’ll likely be moving around a lot in your rain pants, it’s crucial that they offer flexibility and comfort. Some rain pants are constructed from stretchy fabrics that enhance mobility, which may come at a higher price but can be worth it for the added comfort. Designers also incorporate gussets—triangular or diamond-shaped pieces of fabric—into the crotches of rain pants to alleviate stress on the seams. However, our experts noted that many pants are sufficiently stretchy to eliminate the need for gussets altogether.

“The fabrics have become so stretchy that a gusset isn’t as essential as it once was,” said Utah State University’s Sean Michael. “With a quality cut and the relative stretch of the material, the gusset starts to become secondary unless someone is engaged in activities like bouldering or face climbing.”

Ankle zippers make rain pants easy to get on and off over shoes. 

Ease of use: Ankle zippers are essential for easily donning and shedding your rain pants while hiking. “Maybe you’re hot or it stops raining,” said Sokolowski. “You want to ensure the leg opening is easy for a shoe to get underneath so you don’t have to take your shoes off.”

Has a zipper: Almost all the pants we tested for this guide are half-zip, although we included a few full-zip options, like our upgrade pick. Half-zip pants have zippers running from about knee height to the cuffs, making them easier to pull off over hiking boots. Full-zip pants unzip from the ground to the waistband, allowing for easier on-and-off and increased ventilation, but our experts noted the potential downsides: the added weight and risk of zipper failure. If zippers on half-zip pants break, you remain mostly covered, but a zipper failure on full-zip pants leaves your entire leg exposed, defeating their purpose. Plus, removing full-zip pants can lead to water getting on your base layers, and they are often pricier than half-zip options.

Fit: Most rain pants come in both men’s and women’s sizes; selecting the right fit enhances mobility. Excess fabric can hinder movement, while pants that are too large can be uncomfortable and noisy. We also prioritized options with petite, plus-size, and multiple inseam lengths. Since rain pants often have ankle zippers or snap cuffs that complicate alterations, finding a pair with the correct size and cut is crucial. Pants with adjustable waists—using drawstrings, elastic cords, or belts—provide a more customized fit.

Weight: Even if you see yourself as more of a weekend warrior than an ultralight hiker, rain pants shouldn’t add significant weight to your pack, as they’ll likely remain there most of the time. We eliminated any pants over a pound and also considered highly-reviewed rain kilts as ultralight alternatives. Rain kilts shed water and function like an umbrella in skirt form, but they don’t offer full leg coverage. Some ultralight hikers prefer kilts for their versatility, as they can also serve as ground cloths.

Features: We looked for pants with pockets for easy access to essentials. Quality rain pants should also have taped or sealed zippers and seams to ensure water resistance.

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How we tested

Our male tester, Ryland Brooks, hikes in rain pants along the Hoh River while Walletray’s Justin Krajeski (with the red backpack) looks on. 

In 2019 and 2022, we thoroughly evaluated all the rain pants by trying them on to assess their mobility, comfort, and sound. We noted how loud and swishy the fabric was, how easy they were to put on and take off, and how well they fit.

Next, we tested their water resistance using an eyedropper and spray test, following Sokolowski’s guidance. This determined whether water soaked through or beaded on the surface of the pants. All the pants exhibited baseline waterproof qualities, but the test revealed varying levels of effectiveness in repelling water. Some pairs showcased water droplets that practically jumped off their surfaces, while others had droplets that clung more stubbornly to the fabric.

Additionally, we conducted a wash test to simulate long-term wear and tear on the durable water repellent (DWR) coatings. Researching how outdoor clothing brands test their rainwear led us to Patagonia’s Killer Wash tests. We spoke with Matt Dwyer, Patagonia’s director of materials and development, to gain insights; he explained that Patagonia’s initial wash tests involve continuous five-, 12-, or 24-hour cycles. After carefully reading the labels on all tested pants and kilts to ensure we followed the manufacturers’ instructions, we used powder detergent to wash the pants in cold water for five hours and then air-dried them. Afterward, we repeated the eyedropper and spray test to observe any differences, but notably, there were none.

After washing pants for five hours continuously, we repeated the eyedropper test to see how well DWR held up. Video: Anna Perling

Anna Perling tested rain pants in Portland, Oregon, a city renowned for its rain. When the rainfall proved sparse in Portland, Anna ventured with the finalists to the Hoh Rain Forest in Washington’s Olympic National Park, which receives an impressive 12 to 14 feet of rain annually. Jenni Gritters evaluated rain pants in Bend, Oregon, during the late winter and early spring seasons. Additionally, Kim Mock took rain pants into the wilds of Colorado during the spring months, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of each pair’s performance in varied, wet conditions.

We didn’t get much rain during our trip to the Hoh Rain Forest, but at least we had a river to splash in. 

We wore all of our selected rain pants for at least an hour of hiking to rigorously test for mobility and breathability, as well as to assess how easy they were to put on and take off. We lunged, jumped, rolled around in wet grass, splashed ourselves with river water, knelt in puddles, and even rubbed our backs against mossy trees and gravel to truly evaluate their performance in various conditions.

Ultimately, since all of our candidates demonstrated sufficient waterproof capabilities, we made our final selections based on sizing options, price, fit, and features. We meticulously combed through reviews on multiple retail sites to gather insights on long-term wear and overall durability, ensuring that our picks meet the needs of everyday hikers and backpackers.

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Our pick: Marmot PreCip Eco Pants

Marmot’s PreCip Eco Pants (available in both men’s and women’s versions) excel at keeping you dry while being more budget-friendly than the competition. Plus, they offer a wider array of inseam lengths, making them a versatile choice for various body types. These 2.5-layer, ripstop-nylon pants are crafted from 100% recycled fabric, highlighting both sustainability and performance. With handy ankle zips, they make it easy to slip over your boots, and the zippered side pockets add functional storage.

What truly sets the PreCip pants apart is their exceptional cut: they ranked among the best-fitting options we tried. Available in short, regular, and long inseam lengths, they catered to a range of testers, with many finding this fit to be the most comfortable and accommodating among all the pants we evaluated.

On our Hoh Rain Forest hike and around town, the PreCip pants felt breathable.

Marmot’s PreCip Eco Pants excelled at keeping us dry during our several-mile trek in heavier-than-usual rain and wind in Portland, Oregon. Throughout our eyedropper and spray tests, we observed no signs of wetting through—both before and after subjecting the pants to five hours of continuous washing. While water didn’t bead up and jump off the PreCip pants quite as effectively as it did off the Arc’Teryx Beta pants, there was no water clinging to the fabric either.

On our hike in the Hoh Rain Forest, the PreCip pants felt notably breathable, even in the 48-degree Fahrenheit temperatures. Unlike the Columbia Storm Surge pants, which left us feeling sweaty and clammy after just an hour, the PreCip maintained comfort throughout our hike.

Tripping over pants or feeling constricted is never fun, and while some rain pants in our test group gave us that sensation, the PreCip pairs did not. Instead, they fit well and allowed for easy movement, with legs roomy enough to pull on over layers while walking. Although they retain the classic rain pant aesthetic and don’t earn high style points, they feel sturdier than many others we tested, thanks in part to their gusseted crotch, which our experts noted reinforces an area often prone to ripping.

Marmot’s 2.5-layer PreCip Eco Pants kept us dry in Portland, Oregon, rain even after we put them through five hours of continuous washing.

The PreCip Eco Pants are available in three inseam lengths (short, regular, and long) for both men’s and women’s versions, and they stand out as one of the few options in our selection that proved true to size. The men’s pants range from S to XXL (30- to 42-inch waist, 36- to 48-inch hip, 30- to 35-inch inseam), while the women’s pants come in sizes XS to XL (24.5- to 36.5-inch waist, 35- to 47-inch hip, 29- to 33-inch inseam). Both models are offered only in black.

Featuring two zippered mesh side pockets, the PreCip pants allow you to stash essentials for easy access. These pockets include a protective fabric shelf, ensuring your items stay secure. Marmot’s latest update to the PreCip design includes fully taped seams, which means you can confidently rely on them to keep your phone dry even during a heavy downpour. The ankle zippers at the cuffs make it a breeze to pull the pants over boots, and if you prefer pants that fully unzip from waist to ankle, both men’s and women’s versions offer that flexibility. Additionally, the PreCip pants feature an effective ankle cinch (an elastic drawstring) that allows you to taper and shorten them after putting them on, enhancing comfort and fit.

You can easily put the PreCip pants on over boots thanks to ankle zippers at the cuff; you can also cinch the ankles to taper the pant leg.

As for the price, the PreCip Eco Pants are at the lower end of the high-end rain pants we tested and at the higher end of the cheaper options. At this writing, they’re $30 less than our runner-up, the almost identical Patagonia Torrentshell pants. For the cost, these pants offer the best value of all the pants we tested.

You need to wash the PreCip pants with liquid detergent, not powder; you can dry them on low. If your pants do wear out, you can file a warranty claim with Marmot. The company offers a limited lifetime warranty.

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Flaws but not dealbreakers

While the PreCip Eco Pants are crafted from ripstop nylon, they do retain a slightly crinkly texture that some might compare to trash bags. They’re also not the quietest option available, a common issue we noticed across most of the rain pants we tested. Although the zippers on the PreCip pants are generously long, they don’t quite match the length of the zippers found on Patagonia’s Torrentshell pants, which offer more versatility for quick adjustments.

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Runner-up: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Pants

If Marmot’s PreCip Eco Pants are unavailable, Patagonia’s Torrentshell 3L Pants (available in men’s and women’s versions) are nearly identical to our top pick. They’re basic, waterproof pants with a few standout features: They have long ankle zippers that make them easier to get on and off than the PreCip pairs, as well as articulated knees, and they’re more breathable than many of the other options we tested. But the Torrentshell pants offer any only two inseam lengths (they come in 30-inch and 32.5-inch inseams), so if you’re tall, these pants may not fit you quite as well as our top pick. They are also more expensive than our top pick, depending on the retailer.

The fabric of the Torrentshell pants looks and feels strikingly similar to that of the PreCip pants, as both are crafted from ripstop nylon. However, Patagonia has recently upgraded the Torrentshell to a 3-layer design, making it slightly heavier than Marmot’s 2.5-layer construction.

In terms of performance, the Torrentshell pants excelled just as well as the PreCip pants in keeping us dry during the rainy conditions in Portland, Oregon, while also providing excellent breathability on our hike through the rain forest. The ankle zippers on the Torrentshell pants extend higher up the leg than those on most other rain pants we tested, which facilitates even easier on-and-off access over boots compared to our top pick.

Additionally, the Torrentshell features two zippered side pockets that are covered with a protective fabric shelf. A convenient design element allows the pants to fold and zip into one of the mesh pockets when not in use, making them easy to stow in a backpack. The articulated knees also enhance mobility, ensuring comfort during active use.

Vented zippers, which open from either end, give the Torrentshell pants added breathability. 

The biggest drawback of the Torrentshell pants is their fit: if you’re taller than the inseams accommodate, you may find they don’t provide adequate coverage. The men’s versions range from XXS to XXL (26- to 42-inch waist, 32- to 48-inch hip), while the women’s versions also span XXS to XXL (24.5- to 41.5-inch waist, 34- to 51-inch hip). Currently, the only available color is black, which may limit your options if you prefer a different aesthetic.

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Upgrade pick: Arc’teryx Beta AR Pant

The Arc’teryx Beta AR rain pants (available in both men’s and women’s versions) are five times as expensive as our top pick, but they offer exceptional durability and waterproofing for mountaineering adventures or heavy rain, snow, and sleet. Unlike the other pants we tested, the Beta AR pants don’t just cause water to bead off—they repel water with remarkable force. The secret lies in their Gore-Tex Pro materials, which provide excellent breathability while ensuring you stay dry. Additionally, reinforced instep patches along the calves help prevent damage from crampons or snowshoes, making them a robust choice for serious outdoor enthusiasts.

There are two versions of these pants available: the regular Beta pant (in both men’s and women’s sizes) and the upgraded Beta AR. Arc’teryx has occasionally stocked both the Beta and Beta AR in only men’s or only women’s sizes. (As of late August 2024, both the women’s and men’s Beta AR pants were in stock.) We’ve tested and appreciated both versions; they offer similar fit and performance. The AR is pricier, but it boasts additional features that are especially beneficial in snowy conditions, including higher-denier Gore-Tex, draw cuffs, and a more robust water-repellent treatment. For these reasons, we recommend the AR if you plan to use them primarily in snow. However, if your focus is on rain and you don’t expect to encounter snow or ice, the less-expensive Beta will still provide you with excellent fit and performance.

During our water and wash tests, the Arc’teryx Beta AR pants felt notably hardier than competitors. While it’s advisable to layer long johns underneath for added warmth during a snowstorm, these pants provide superior water and wind protection compared to our other picks. They are also heavier than our top choice. Like many of the rain pants we tested, the Beta AR pairs feature side zippers, but their zippers fully extend from hip to ankle, allowing for the easiest on-and-off experience and optimal ventilation.

You can find the Arc’teryx Beta and Beta AR pants, available in both men’s and women’s versions, in three inseam lengths: short, regular, and tall. For men, the inseams range from 29 to 36 inches, depending on the size of the pants. For women, the inseams range from 28.5 to 35 inches. Men’s sizes run from XS to XXL (with waists ranging from 29 to 44.5 inches and hips from 34.5 to 50 inches). Women’s sizes range from 00 to 16 (with waists spanning 24 to 37 inches and hips from 33.5 to 46.5 inches). Most Arc’teryx items tend to run narrow, so it’s advisable to try on both your usual size and one size up to determine your preferred fit. You can customize the fit of your pants around your hips using the belt and cinch strap. Additionally, the ankle portion features a cinch and buttons, plus lace hooks for compatibility with hiking or alpine boots. The women’s Beta AR is available only in black, while the men’s version comes in black and a muted green.

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Other good rain pants

If you’re looking for extended sizes in rain pants: Consider the Outdoor Research Helium Rain Pants (currently available only in women’s sizes XXS to XXXL). Our plus-size tester reported no chafing and loved the drawstring waist, which allowed her to tailor the fit to her shape. These pants caused water to bead off well enough, and our tester said that she didn’t feel wet even after a long slog in the rain. Most of all, she preferred the style of the Helium pants; many plus-size pants are boxy, but these allowed enough room for layering without looking baggy. They also have zippers at the ankles that allow for breathability, and they weigh just 5.5 ounces.

The standard-size Helium pants received mixed reviews from our testers, primarily because they didn’t match the comfort and durability of our top pick and runner-up. However, if you’re in search of extended-size options, the Helium pants stand out as the best choice in that category. Their extended sizing makes them a reliable option for those needing a more inclusive fit, while still providing decent water resistance for varied outdoor activities.

If you’re looking for extended sizes in both short and tall lengths, consider the Eddie Bauer Cloud Cap Rain Pants, available for both men and women. The Cloud Cap pants come in sizes XS to 3X for women, with options in regular, petite, and tall inseams, making them a versatile choice worth considering. However, they lack some features we appreciate in other models, such as ankle zippers and elastic cinches, which may limit functionality. Our plus-size and petite women’s testers found the waist a bit snug, and the fabric was relatively thin, leaving legs feeling cold during rainy hikes. Overall, the women’s version felt more like hiking pants than dedicated rain pants, while the men’s option (available in regular or tall sizes from S to XXL and in a non-stretch fabric) had a boxy fit.

If you’re looking for an ultralight option: Consider the Montbell Versalite Pants (men’s and women’s). These pants weigh 3.2 ounces, and though they feel likely to blow away in the wind because they’re seriously as light as a feather, they kept out the rain surprisingly well in our tests. “If these were truly waterproof, they’re all I would pack,” said one tester upon trying the Montbell pants for the first time. And his request was granted: During our eyedropper and spray tests, and our hikes in the rain, these pants repelled water just as well as our other picks did, and they’re available for a similar price. They feel like crepe paper and can’t keep you warm or protected from the wind, but they do the job well during a rainstorm.

If you want a rain kilt for warmer weather: If you’re traveling somewhere warm or going to a place with lighter rain, a rain kilt may work for you, but we don’t think a rain kilt is the best rainproofing option for most people. If you do want to buy a kilt, we like the Zpacks DCF Rain Kilt. Made of ultra-durable and lightweight Dyneema fabric, the kilt has a zipper to seal it and a cinch waist. In contrast, the other kilt we tested, the ULA Rain Kilt, uses three pieces of Velcro as closures, which leave several slits where rain can get through. Though the Zpacks kilt is more rigid than the ULA kilt, you can still move around in it.

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The competition

The Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Pant (available in men’s and women’s versions) stands out for its light, soft, and stretchy fabric, making them feel and look more like hiking pants than traditional rain layers. During our spray tests, water practically jumped off this fabric, demonstrating its water-resistant qualities. However, on a windy, rainy night, these pants began to wet through after just an hour of exposure. They feature thigh-high zippers, making them easy to get on and off, and boast a more tailored cut compared to many other rain pants we tested. The men’s version includes a cinching buckle, while the women’s version has Velcro tabs at the sides for a customizable fit. We tested the Stretch Ozonic pants in both 2019 and 2022, and while they are popular among users, we believe they may not provide the guaranteed waterproofing that most people require for extended wet conditions.

Columbia Men’s Rebel Roamer Rain Pants: Though the Rebel Roamer pants have two snaps at the ankles to help taper the legs, they lack ankle zippers, which makes them difficult to get on and off. They come in 30- and 32-inch inseams.

Columbia Women’s Storm Surge Rain Pants: The Storm Surge pants come in plus sizes in the women’s version. But during our testing, they weren’t breathable (likely due to their shell and their mesh lining). These pants also lack ankle zippers and are difficult to get on and off over shoes.

ULA Rain Kilt: features a closure design with three Velcro pieces, which unfortunately creates gaps that may allow moisture to seep in. While this kilt is less structured than the Zpacks kilt we tested, making it easier to move around in, we encountered some challenges during our tests. The fabric tended to swish around our legs, causing it to get stuck between Anna’s legs while she walked. Additionally, the kilt produced noticeable noise, which could be distracting on longer hikes. Overall, while the ULA Rain Kilt offers mobility, it may not provide the level of protection some users seek in rain gear.

We also tested and ultimately dismissed rain pants from The North Face and REI Co-op, both of which have since been discontinued. While they were contenders in our search for the best rain pants, they did not meet the performance and comfort standards we set for our top picks.

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Care and maintenance

Care and maintenance instructions for rain pants depend on each specific pair, and our testing confirmed the importance of following these guidelines. “Every product will have a sewn-on care label,” noted Susan Sokolowski from the University of Oregon. “The company that’s made them has probably wash-tested them.” It’s essential to adhere to the suggested manufacturer’s care instructions to prolong the life of your rain gear. During our wash test, we carefully examined the care labels on each pair of pants. A visible flaking of the DWR membrane indicates that your rain gear is beginning to fail. “A membrane like Gore-Tex is laminated to the outer fabric. If you wash or put these products in the dryer, the membrane will start to deteriorate,” Sokolowski warned. Proper care is crucial to maintaining waterproofing and breathability over time.

You can re-treat your pants to maintain them. Utah State University’s Sean Michael recommended looking into company-specific washes or treatments. (He likes Nikwax, which adds DWR to rain gear through a spray or wash, and said that the brand’s Tech Wash and TX.Direct “are coupled together as a one-two punch for cleaning and re-treating.”) Dirt, sweat, and grime on pants all impede the effectiveness of DWR, so washing or rinsing your rain pants between uses can help extend their longevity. Drying your pants on low for a short time can help reactivate the DWR, too. You’ll know whether a DWR coating is intact if water beads on the pants (this is a good sign). If water soaks through the fabric, you’re out of luck, and you need to reapply the coating.

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Sources

1. Susan Sokolowski, then associate professor and director of the sports product design program at the University of Oregon, phone interview, July 12, 2017
2. Sean Michael, professor and then program director for the outdoor product design and development program at Utah State University, phone interview, July 13, 201