Gear Review: REI Elements Rain Jacket
Long-Term Review of the REI Elements Rain Jacket
I purchased this jacket in 2012 for a trip to Peru and have used it many times on the trail or on rainy days when I need to take the dogs out for a potty break. The REI Elements Rain Jacket, now known as the REI Ultra-Light Jacket, is a lightweight, 2.5-layer, waterproof, breathable, coated shell that weighs 16 ounces. The jacket works great as a rain jacket, wind jacket, or for warmth as an outer layer.
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| Wearing my REI Elements Rain Jacket on a rainy day in Peru |
Construction
The Elements Rain Jacket is made of diamond-ripstop nylon and is waterproof, breathable, and windproof up to 60 mph. The seams are sealed, the zipper features a bonded placket with securing snaps, and the shell is DWR coated. Additionally, the jacket features 2-way stretch for enhanced comfort and multiple pockets for easy access to your equipment. Another set of nice features is the design to help keep heat in: the hood is fully adjustable (it can even be rolled and secured in the collar), the cuffs can be velcroed, and the waist can be adjusted with a drawstring. In my opinion, the most essential feature is that each armpit has a zipper to help increase breathability.
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| Hood rolled up and secured in the collar. |
Uses
I’ve used this jacket in multiple situations, from rainstorms, snow, and mountain biking, and it has always kept me warm and dry. While in Peru, we experienced multiple rainstorms at high altitude, and my torso always remained dry. In addition, hiking the Neusiok Trail, NC, I experienced a day of heavy rain and stayed dry. As far as warmth goes, hiking Mt LeConte, I experienced significant snowfall and managed to keep warm and dry wearing this jacket. Finally, there have been multiple times I’ve been out mountain biking with the sun going down, super sweaty, and a cold front blowing in, and I’ve been able to throw this jacket on and remain warm.
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| Wearing my REI Elements Jacket on a snowy day at Mt LeConte |
Pros
One of the biggest benefits of the Elements Rain Jacket is its versatility. This jacket can be used as an outer layer to stay warm and provides protection from wind and rain. Furthermore, it is useful for everyday use, light enough for backpacking, and stout enough to survive riding through thick brush while mountain biking. Moreover, this jacket is extremely adjustable. The hood can be adjusted, removed, or rolled up and secured in the collar. Additionally, the cuffs and waist can be adjusted and loosened as needed to accommodate changing weather conditions. Finally, REI's lightweight rain jackets are frequently on sale and can be purchased for a fraction of the price of higher-end models.
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| This jacket is durable and has been able to survive the lustful attacks of this dog in Peru |
Issues
The Elements Rain Jacket isn’t without its issues, however, as it is much heavier and bulkier than similarly marketed jackets. The jacket can be stuffed into its own pocket, but it is still cantaloupe-sized. This can be a considerable amount of space if you must carry multiple pieces for a complete clothing system. Furthermore, at 16 ounces, this is heavy for a lightweight jacket, as there are now other options available at approximately 5 ounces. Another big issue is the breathability. While waterproof is covered, this jacket needs to have the armpit zippers open if you want it to breathe. Finally, the chest pocket is in a bad location. This isn’t a significant issue unless you are wearing a pack, in which case the pocket is inaccessible due to the chest strap, and anything in the pocket will rub uncomfortably against you.
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| The large zippered armpit vent |
Recommendation
Overall, this is a solid jacket and I’m glad it's been my jacket of choice for 5 years; however, now that I have gained more knowledge and skills, I’m ready to move on to a lighter rain jacket. If you are a beginner backpacker or need a standard adventure rain jacket, then this jacket is ideal for you. However, if you have advanced skills, I’d recommend looking for something more tailored to your style and climate.
What is your go-to rain jacket? Let us know in the comments. Additionally, if you enjoy the blog, follow us on Facebook to stay up to date.
Disclosure: I purchased the jacket with my own funds. And the links contained in this article might provide a small commission.
I just purchased the same exact jacket used for 35$. I'll be wearing it on my upcoming Ireland trip. So far my only complaint,is the weight of the jacket and ability to stow away in my backpack.its a bit bulky and more of a winter hiking style jacket. As u said,it's very rugged and makes a good versatile jacket with a fleece underneath it . It's much less expensive than a North Face jacket of the same style and will perform just as well . Thanks for the great review!
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