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Why You Should Spend a Few Ounces of Pack Weight on Rainwear Ventilation Features (Updated)

In this article, we make the case for spending some extra weight on rain jackets and rain pants that offer more ventilation features (and durability) than typical ultralight rainwear styles (updated July 2024).

The Dirt Catwalk: Modern Layering Ensembles for Backpackers

In this article, I discuss some of the challenges that an effective layering system needs to address. In addition, I highlight a handful of the layers that I use the most and how I combine them into various ensembles for different use cases.

The Backpacking Poncho: An Ultralight Alternative to Rain Jackets

Drew Smith makes the case for backpacking ponchos. They provide more ventilation vs. rain jackets and can also function as ultralight tarps.

By the Numbers: the Search for a High-MVTR Waterproof Breathable Shell Jacket

A high MVTR waterproof-breathable shell jacket may be the holy grail that can replace both a wind shirt and a rain jacket. Do they exist, and where do we find them?

Ultralight Rain Mitts for Backpacking: Reviews & Gear Guide

In this gear guide, we review 16 models of waterproof mitten shells ("rain mitts") weighing less than 4 ounces (113 g) within the primary context of 3-season backpacking.

Enlightened Equipment Visp Rain Jacket Review

The Enlightened Equipment Visp Rain Jacket (4.93 oz/140 g, $190) is minimally-featured, made with 75k MVTR fabric, and is reasonably-priced.

ZPacks Vertice Rain Jacket Review

This ZPacks Vertice Rain Jacket review is comprehensive and addresses long-term performance, breathability, DWR, and more.

Episode 18 | Clothing Systems for Inclement Weather

In this podcast, we discuss this: how does clothing system for 3/4 season, inclement conditions, differ from my summer backpacking clothing?

Raidlight Hyperlight MP+ Waterproof Rain Jacket Review

The RaidLight HyperLight MP+ Waterproof Jacket is one of the lightest no-frills rain jackets on the market.

Arc’teryx Zeta FL Jacket Review & Zeta SL Pant Review

The Arc'teryx Zeta FL Jacket is a Gore-tex Paclite Plus rain jacket that features a trim fit and hip length. It has articulated tailoring in the hood and arms, a full-length water-resistant zipper, two handwarmer pockets with water-resistant zippers, elastic hem and wrist cuffs, and an adjustable hood aperture.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Shell Jacket Review

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Shell Jacket is made using Dyneema Composite Fabric bonded to a polyester fiber outer face for durability, and to a monolayer eVENT membrane on the inner face for breathability.

71g BlackYak Emergency Jacket Provides Waterproof Protection at Lightest Weight Possible

The BlackYak Emergency Jacket is a waterproof shell that weighs 71 g (2.5 oz), is made with DSM, and probably costs a fortune.

Patagonia M10 Anorak Review

This Patagonia M10 Anorak review features a minimally-featured, simply-styled waterproof-breathable rain jacket that weighs 7 oz.

Montane Minimus 777 Jacket Review

This Montane Minimus 777 Jacket Review investigates the ultralight design, waterproofness, breathability, durability, and comfort of this sub-6-oz jacket in sustained rain.

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