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Packable (small), Waterproof Rain Jacket Suggestions

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6K views 24 replies 16 participants last post by  bradkay  
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#1 ·
I'm looking for a very packable, totally waterproof, wind proof rain jacket, something that packs down to the size of the palm of my hand, fits into my jersey pocket with room to spare, must be other than black color fabric, something that will be seen. The best one out there is the Gore One, but it's only available in black. It weighs about 133g, and packs very small.
Any suggestions?
Thanks,
ifcjti
 
#2 ·
Outdoor Research Helium II is 180g and comes in a number of colors. However, it has a hood. I pack a Marmot when backpacking but it is a tad heavier and bulkier than what you are looking for (not much but outside of your requirements). Honestly though even when backpacking I just suck it up and get wet unless it is cold, the rain gear is for when I am stopped and want wind protection. Are you looking to wear this while riding? I ask because exerting yourself while wearing a bonafide rain jacket is not comfortable, you may be better off layering up with something that is breathable yet warm while wet.
 
#3 ·
I've used these for a few years:
Original Cycling Jacket | O2 Rainwear
I think it's the lightest and possible most packable thing out there. I think it's probably around 100 grams in medium. The breathable/waterproof film works better than any other, according to their tests, and my experience is consistent with that assertion.

The only drawback is mediocre durability - the material gets small rips pretty easily. But I just tape it up, and it's cheap enough to replace after a few years if you have to.

This company was started by a couple of engineers from 3M who thought of this use for a membrane that the company had developed for bandage tape (they call it Micropore). I've been very pleased with mine.
 
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I
#6 ·
I've seen this one on web sites, looks pretty good. Can't recall if its waterproof or just water resistant, I'll take another look. Does it pack up very small? That's the big question? I don't want it hanging out of my jersey pocket, looking for something that I can take on any ride in case of rain or if I need a wind jacker for some warmth on a chilly days. Thanks!
 
I
#8 ·
That's the kind of packable size I'm looking for! I'll look for it in a local bike shop in the spring, they don't seem to have any jackets like this in stock this time of year in New England. Wonder if PI is making any changes to the 2017 product. Their web site shows this jacket, but unsure if it's the 2017 line. Guess I'll email or give them a call to find out.
Thanks again!
 
I
#10 ·
bootsie_cat, I think the Gore One is the cat's meow! I tried it on last weekend at my LBS, the large fit me very nice, but I'm not sold on a black jacket, especially when there are so many other choices in bright and florescent colors. I do already use a flashing red light, I'll have to give it some additional thought. Thanks!
 
M
#11 ·
The Pearl Izumi Pro Barrier Jacket won't be waterproof. Light rain resistant? Yes. And it will pack up very small. I don't have the jacket, but I have the vest and other than the flapping at speeds over 23mph, I love it. I can pack it up to a little bigger than a deck of cards.
https://www.biketiresdirect.com/product/pearl-izumi-mens-pro-barrier-lite-jacket

Something more waterproof would be this Elite WXB jacket
Pearl Izumi ELITE WxB Jacket - Men's | Competitive Cyclist

I have the PRO Aero version of this jacket. I can get in in a jersey pocket with some effort, but you'll know it's there. I rode with it when I thought I was going to get dumped on and about 55 degrees. I did start to over heat a little and it never rained. I also wish I wouldn't have gotten the Aero version, because while I'm not super-fat at 5'9" 160#, it was tight around my middle and rode up a little and I kept having to pull it down.

Also, check out Sportful's offerings. Their stuff is pretty awesome. A sister company to Castelli, but I think better quality and you don't have to order a XXL if you're 160#'s.
https://www.excelsports.com/main.asp?page=7&major=4&minor=4#.filter-SPORTFUL
 
C
#13 ·
Depends on your definition of "totally waterproof".

I believe the PI is polyester with DWR coating. No seam taping. IOW, it will keep water out for a limited amount of time - but the water will eventually penetrate the seams and fabric.

I have a Endura xtract jacket. I can fold it and carry it in my jersey pocket. I like it. I would expect that it is more waterproof than the PI barrier - it is also less expensive.

Still have not seen a cycling version, but I have been interested in finding a cuben fiber cycling rain jacket.
 
#16 ·
I use a Castelli Goccia, I think the 2011 model. This jacket essentially stayed the same for a few years after that, but may have been discontinued now. I don't know about newer models, but the Goccia really gets the job done and also the yellow version is highly visible. It has kept me dry and warm(er) in pretty stormy weather but manages to be pretty light.
 
J
#18 ·
It's tough. I have found truly waterproof jackets to be pretty useless for me on a bike unless it is really cold out for the whole ride (like 40 degrees or less), or unless I am just on a slow, easy, flat ride (which never happens). Any significant energy output by me gets me too steamy inside and I can't wait to get it the hell off of me, and at that point, the rain feels good on my body.
Castelli makes the Gabba (now the Perfetto) and the Velo Jacket. They breath really well and have a useful range of conditions for me. The Velo packs down incredibly small. Perfect for those 30 to 40 something mornings that turn into 60 something afternoons, rain or dry.
 
M
#19 ·
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#21 ·
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