How to Choose the Best Rain Pants: A Comprehensive Guide
Quick answer: Choose rain pants with a waterproof-breathable membrane (around 10,000mm waterproofing and 10,000 g/m²/24hr breathability or better), a fabric weight that matches how hard you use them (30D-50D for occasional use, 70D or more for rugged terrain), articulated knees for movement, and ankle or full side zips so you can pull them on over boots.
Whether you are hiking, backpacking, or just commuting through a Portland winter, the right rain pants keep you dry and comfortable. This guide walks through the factors that matter most, including waterproofing, breathability, durability, and fit, so you can pick the right pair for how you get outside.
Waterproofing and Breathability
The main job of rain pants is to keep you dry, so waterproofing comes first. Look for membranes like Gore-Tex, eVent, or the proprietary membranes from reputable outdoor brands. These fabrics block water from outside while letting sweat vapor escape, so you stay dry from both rain and perspiration.
Waterproof ratings are measured in millimeters (mm), the water pressure a fabric can withstand before leaking. A rating of 10,000mm or higher is considered highly waterproof, though higher ratings can sometimes come at the cost of breathability.
Breathability matters just as much for high-exertion activities like hiking. It is measured in grams of water vapor per square meter per 24 hours (g/m²/24hr). A rating of 10,000 g/m²/24hr or higher works well for most outdoor activities.
Weight and Packability
If your rain pants will live in your pack most of the time, lightweight and packable is the way to go. Some ultralight rain pants weigh as little as 5-6 ounces and pack down to the size of a small water bottle. The tradeoff is that ultralight fabrics are usually less durable.
Durability: Denier Ratings
Fabric durability is often described by its denier (D) rating, a measure of fiber thickness. For occasional use, 30D-50D fabrics are usually enough. If you hike through rugged terrain or wear rain pants often, look for 70D or higher, especially in high-wear areas like the knees and seat.
- Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Pants (Women's) Durable 3-layer rain pant
- Patagonia Granite Crest Rain Pants (Women's) Light and packable
- Helly Hansen Emiko Shell Bib (Women's) Bib coverage for wet snow
- 686 Outline Shell Pant (Women's) Shell pant for snow days
- 686 Dojo 20K Pant (Men's) 20K waterproof rating
Fit and Mobility
Rain pants should fit comfortably with plenty of room to move. Articulated knees and a gusseted crotch improve mobility. If you plan to wear layers underneath, choose a more relaxed fit.
Ease of Use
Full-length side zippers let you put on and take off rain pants without removing your boots. Partial zippers from the ankle to the knee offer a balance of convenience and weight savings.
Other features to consider
- Adjustable waist: For a secure fit and better water resistance.
- Pockets: Handy, but every seam is a potential leak point.
- Reinforced knees and seat: Extra durability where pants wear out first.
- Ankle zippers: Ventilation and easier on and off over boots.
- Built-in gaiters: Keep water and snow from coming up from below.
Price and Value
Rain pants come at a wide range of prices. Higher-end models usually offer better breathability and durability, but there are good options at every budget. Think about how often you will wear them: if they are your daily Northwest commuting pants, investing in a durable pair pays off.
Match Rain Pants to Your Activity
- Occasional use in mild conditions: Lightweight, packable pants are enough.
- Extended trips or harsh weather: Choose durable, feature-rich pants.
- High-intensity activities: Prioritize breathability and mobility.
Types of Weather Shells
- Hard shells: Waterproof and breathable, with maximum protection from rain and wind.
- Soft shells: Water-resistant and very breathable, best for high exertion in light precipitation.
- Hybrid shells: Combine waterproof panels with more breathable fabric.
- Insulated shells: Weather protection plus insulation for cold days.
Understanding Breathability
- Moisture management: Lets sweat vapor escape.
- Comfort: Reduces that clammy feeling inside your pants.
- Vapor permeability: Measured in g/m²/24hr; higher numbers breathe better.
- Activity level: The harder you work, the more breathability you need.
Waterproof-Breathable Technologies
There are two main approaches to waterproofing outdoor gear:
- Laminates: A membrane bonded to the fabric, offering the best waterproofing and breathability. Gore-Tex and eVent are common examples.
- Coatings: A waterproof layer applied to the fabric. More affordable but generally less durable and less breathable.
Most waterproof garments also have a durable water repellent (DWR) finish that keeps the outer fabric from soaking through. Refreshing the DWR keeps your pants breathing well.
- Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket (Women's) Pair with matching pants
- Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket (Men's) Packable rain shell
- Showers Pass Waterproof Socks Dry feet in wet weather
Want to try rain pants on over your boots? Stop by our Grand Avenue store in Portland's Central Eastside.
Rain Pants FAQ
What waterproof rating should rain pants have?
Look for about 10,000mm or higher for reliable protection in sustained rain. Higher ratings add protection but can reduce breathability.
Are lightweight rain pants durable enough for hiking?
For occasional use, yes. Ultralight pants in 30D-50D fabrics work well in a pack, but if you bushwhack or wear them often, choose 70D or reinforced knees and seat.
Do I need full side zips on rain pants?
Full side zips make it easy to pull pants on over boots and to vent. Ankle-to-knee zips are a lighter compromise that still lets you get them on without taking boots off.
What is the difference between a laminate and a coating?
A laminate bonds a waterproof-breathable membrane to the fabric and typically performs and lasts better. A coating is painted on, costs less, and is usually less breathable and durable.