Editor’s note: Singletracks does not condone riding in conditions that cause damage to shared trails.
The notion that toilets flush in different directions based on their relationship to the equator is a myth. Apparently, the swirl is determined by the flush-jet direction of a given model, so unfortunately that folk tale is fake news. What’s true though is that it’s still wicked cold and soggy in some parts of the northern hemisphere, and we tested a pile of waterproof MTB jackets that will make the next few months more bearable and last you years to come.
See also: Why are Good Rain Jackets so Expensive? We had to Know
| JACKET | PRICE | STYLE | FEATURES | BEST FOR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chrome Storm Salute Commute Jacket | $190 | Men and women | Giant cargo pocket | Not looking like a rain jacket |
| Craft Pro Hydro Running Jacket 2 | $200 | Men and women | Excellent ventilation | Multisport |
| Dainese HG Harashimaya | $249 | Men | Zippered armpit vents | Slim fit |
| Dakine Dewit 20K 3L Jacket | $290 | Men | Layering space beneath | Wet weather |
| DHaRCO Rain Jacket | $226 | Men and women | Heavy material | Cold rain |
| Endura MT500 Wateproof Jacket II | $330 | Men and women | Large vent slots | Freezing rain |
| Gorewear Endure Jacket | $250 | Men and women | Packable | Emergency rain shell |
| Pearl Izumi Summit 3L WxB Rain Jacket | $185 | Men and women | Breathable | True-to-size fit |
| Pearl Izumi Vortex WxB Hooded Jacket | $300 | Men | Contains recycled materials | Pop of color |
| POC Signal All-Weather Jacket | $350 | Men and women | Very waterproof | Soggy slogs |
| Race Face Conspiracy Jacket | $212 | Men | Very waterproof | Racing in the rain |
| Showers Pass Elements Jacket | $219 | Men and Women | More breathable than most | Timeless aesthetic |
| Specialized Trail Rain Jacket | $375 | Men and women | Long, slender fit | Looking good post-ride |
| Velocio Trail Anorak | $449 | Men and women | Pull-over style | Tailored style |
Chrome Storm Salute Commute Jacket
- Price: $190
- Colors (for both men and women): Black, Dusty Olive
- Available at Chrome Industries: Men’s and Women’s
The Chrome Storm Salute Commute Jacket has a sleek, minimalist design yet is feature-packed. The 2.5 layer waterproof shell (10k/10k rating) has neatly taped seams to keep all the rain out. The fabric is noticeably thick and heavy for a hardshell, however it’s not as noisy or baggy as I would expect. The hood offers nice coverage and can be cinched for a perfect fit while the fleece lining around the collar adds soft protection from the 2-way zipper when fully zipped. It can get warm in this jacket rather quickly but there is generous venting in the upper back. The backside also has a longer drop tail hem to cover a bit more of your rear.
Test pilot profile height: 152cm (5’0″) weight: 50kg (110lb) testing zone: Atlanta, Georgia
The giant pocket in the back is perhaps my favorite feature. Spanning halfway down the jacket and to essentially 1-2 inches from the bottom, and the full width of my waist, the pocket is large enough to carry at least 4 cans of your favorite beverage. I wouldn’t recommend lugging all that liquid on the trail, but since this jacket is designed for commuting I can easily imagine many bike rides around town where I could have used that extra storage for picking up lunch or running an impromptu errand. Other commuting type details like reflective bands on the cuffs and rear pocket are strategically placed to keep the overall look very streamlined.
Craft Pro Hydro Running Jacket 2
- MSRP: $199.99 – $229.99
- Men’s colors: Multi/Cactus, Opal/Multi, Blue, Black
- Women’s colors: Multi/Blues, Bark/Multi, Glow/Multi, Blue, Black
- Available at Craft: Men’s and Women’s
Don’t sleep on this one just because the Craft Pro Hydro Running Jacket 2 is designed for “running.” As someone who has logged many marathon training miles in frigid temps, a good running jacket that offers ventilation and mobility will easily function as mountain biking outerwear. Before we jump into the long list of technical features of this jacket, can we please acknowledge the striking (not-black) aesthetic? The varying shades of blue on the women’s jacket are reminiscent of mountain ridge lines in artistic shibori-esque hues, and the men’s version adds a touch of green, grounding the design to earthy terrain.
Test pilot profile height: 152cm (5’0″) weight: 50kg (110lb) testing zone: Atlanta, Georgia
On top of the technical feature list is the superior ventilation and breathability of the Hydro running jacket. Sweat and excess body heat can readily escape on 30-ish degree temps through the vents in the neck/upper chest and armpits. The wind- and water-proof 3L laminated fabric (WP 15k/MVP 10k) has a soft, silky feel and more stretchy and flexible than a typical hardshell rain coat. It also lacks any noticeable swooshes or crunchy sounds during movement. The sleeves are tapered and have a partial elastic cuff so they stay in place and out of the way. The adjustable hood can be rolled up and snapped down for storage. Two streamlined zippered pockets are handy for stashing gloves or a snack.
I did find the fit to be slightly longer and wider than the size chart suggested, not surprisingly for a petite 5’0″ woman. Craft does note on their US website that “As a Swedish brand our products can fit long and lean” and recommends sizing up if between sizes. A baggier, bigger jacket might have more of a performance effect for running rather than mountain biking. I would not hesitate to use this on 99% of trail rides, though I’d opt for one of the other black jackets if there was a good chance I might be rolling in some rocks as I don’t know how well the material would hold up to abrasion.
Dainese HG Harashimaya Jacket
- Price $249
- Available from Dainese
A few of the jackets in this roundup are hyper tech-focused, while others are a bit simpler and more straightforward. The HG Harashimaya rain jacket is covered in well-designed ways to provide airflow and comfort while keeping the elements out. Both of the chest pockets open up to mesh lining, and a pair of zippered armpit vents help the laser-cut underarm holes to keep you cooler in the creases.
I received this jacket in the summertime, and have been wearing it on cold night rides this fall. The HG Harashimaya offers a nice amount of warmth while pedaling through cooler temps of 35-50° F, and there’s space inside for a few warmer layers. I hose-tested the jacket’s waterproof-ness and my jersey remained dry despite my best efforts to get soaked. The inner waterproof layer is a shiny nylon/elastane blend material that becomes a little clammy while riding. If you’re not wearing a long sleeve shirt underneath it tends to stick to sweaty skin, and can become uncomfortable.
Specs:
- Weight: 311g
- Three pockets
- Materials: 50% polyester and 50% polyurethane outer, 84% nylon and 16% elastane lining
- Water column: 10,000mm
- Adjustable wrist cuffs, waist, and non-removable under-helmet hood
- Zippered armpit vents
On the fit front, this rain shell has a somewhat tight, or “athletic” cut. I always wear a size small top, and this small fits perfectly. If you prefer a looser fit to make space for back protection, or want to layer more heavily, consider buying a size larger than your usual. The hood, cuffs, and waist can all be tightened with drawstrings, allowing for custom coverage that should work well in all cold conditions.
All of those snacks have to go somewhere, right? The HG Harashimaya has two awkwardly high, hand-size pockets and a large zippered rear pouch that’s large enough to fit a paperback book inside. The chest pockets are placed so that your hands will be over your pectorals, and they seem more useful for ventilation and small snack packing than hand warming.
Lastly, the hood is not detachable, and unlike most of the competition, it’s designed to be worn under your helmet. Depending on how your helmet fits, this could be an important element to consider. I don’t have space between my helmet and head to fit the hood comfortably, so it’s only useful off the bike.
Dakine Dewit 20K 3L Jacket
- MSRP: $290
- Colors: Black only
- Available at Amazon
The Dakine Dewit 20K 3L Jacket uses three layers of recycled polyester that’s coated with DWR to keep all of the rain outside, and it works. In a Washington-level downpour it will eventually soak through, especially around the shoulders, but it generally holds up well in the wet. There is a pair of large chest pockets that could each hold a modern pocket computer, and they double as vent ports thanks to a mesh lining that lets through all the air you will want when it’s cold enough to wear this jacket. The lower hem is dropped and can be cinched tight to keep trail spray out of your trousers. The hood fits nicely beneath a helmet for max warmth when it’s really pouring.
Test pilot profile height: 175cm (5’9″) weight: 65kg (145lb) testing zone: Bellingham, Washington
The size small Dewit has ample space for a few extra layers or back protection beneath while the sleeves leave room for a pair of elbow pads around my scrawny arms. The arm and torso length is just right to suit an aggressive riding position, and the material stretches enough that it likely won’t be destroyed when a soggy root decides you need to kiss the ground. Aesthetically, the jacket has a simple and clean look that’s likely pub-appropriate depending on how sweaty and soiled it is.
DHaRCO Rain Jacket
- MSRP: $226
- Men’s colors: Black Grey (pictured), Camo Green
- Women’s colors: Clay, Camo Green
- Youth colors: ShRed
- Available at evo
I took my daughter for a ride during a healthy downpour while she was wearing the DHaRCO Rain Jacket and she was the only one not shivering when we returned to the car park. The over-helmet hood kept her hair dry and she cinched the lower hem tight for a fully dry seal with her pants. She is typically a fair-weather rider, but with gear like this jacket she was pumped to get out and dance in the mud. It was 42° and raining throughout that ride and she was able to fit a few layers under the jacket to keep toasty, so I’d say DhaRCO has done this rain jacket right.
Test pilot profile height: 175cm (5’9″) weight: 65kg (145lb) testing zone: Bellingham, Washington
The fit on this jacket is a little large for both of us, which is nice when it’s cold enough outside to require multiple layers. The polyester shell isn’t the most elastic or breathable, though it does feel fairly durable for the dirt naps. There are two external hand pockets and a pair of internal pockets that work well to store a spare set of gloves warmly against your belly.
Endura MT500 Wateproof Jacket II
The Endura MT500 Waterproof Jacket II was revamped this fall with all of the best bells and whistles. With 36-inch-long vents that start at the armpit and extend to the lower torso, and a pair of hand-pockets that have 34″ integrated vent slots, there is no shortage of ventilation through this jacket. The liner material is less sweat-sticky than some, and the massive vents mitigate sweat well enough.
In terms of waterproof capabilities, there are few other options I would consider for cold weather rides. I wore the MT500 II while covering an EWS race on the frigid slopes in Zermatt, Switzerland this season, and I was the warmest rider on the trail by a long shot. The vent zips allowed me to regulate my temperature and to keep from sweating while the burly waterproof layers kept my core warm and free of external fluids. The hood can be cinched tight over a helmet and I am able to situate it far enough back that it doesn’t block my peripheral vision while the fortified bill keeps my head dry. Standing on a ski slope shooting race photos in rain that’s on the cusp of snow would be a harsh test for any rain jacket, and this one performed impressively.
Specs
- Weight: 470g
- Three pockets
- Main material: EXOSHELL40DR™
- Three-layer waterproof fabric
- Fixed, adjustable, over-helmet hood
- Left wrist lift pass pocket
The MT500 II fits on the looser side, but not so loose that the fabric will catch on the saddle or trailside plants. There’s ample room to layer up underneath. I have even worn a puffy jacket under this when headed to check out stars on an alpine night ride. The waist, hood, and sleeve openings are all adjustable to your desired fit.
This isn’t the most packable jacket, and it’s not intended to be. It feels decidedly durable, with silicone grippers on the elbows and external fabric that will undoubtedly withstand a few dirt-naps. It’s for rides that start and finish with splashing puddles. While not the least expensive option here, the MT500 II is one of the best layers for folks who like to — or have to — ride in the rain.
Gorewear Endure Jacket
The Gorewear Endure jacket is waterproof and breathable thanks to taped seams and the Gore-Tex membrane inside. It packs into its own pocket, and while it’s not as lightweight as the brand’s more expensive Shakedry jackets, it’s super portable for bringing along just in case. I found it works great for keeping body heat inside on cold, wet winter night rides and the reflective details really pop against the darkness.
The Black/Fireball colorway I tested is pretty unique and stands out in the Gorewear line. It reminds me of a luxury brand pattern, and it’s clear a lot of thought went into the design, from the elongated, drop tail for extra coverage in the rear to the oversized hood that fits over most helmets.
Women’s sizes and styles are available. My US size medium weighs 303g.
Pearl Izumi Summit 3L WxB Rain Jacket
- Price: $185
- Buy from Pearl Izumi.
Pearl Izumi’s Summit 3L WxB jacket is made for “the wettest, rowdiest rides” and that’s where it ended up. The rain jacket is constructed from a three-layer fabric and meant to stay breathable and comfortable while on the move. Our tester found this to be true. The Summit 3L jacket is light and maintains good breathability when it’s zippered up, sheltering the rider from the rain.
The hood is big enough to get around a helmet, and has a cinch behind the crown for a tight fit. There is plenty of space in the pockets for hands, snacks, and keys and our tester appreciated the true-to-size fit and droptail for added coverage in the rear.
Pearl Izumi Vortex WxB Hooded Jacket
- Price: $300
- Available at Pearl Izumi and Amazon
The $300 Pearl Izumi Vortex WxB Hooded Jacket is designed like a fortress against outside moisture. The jacket features three layer construction, fully taped seams, and waterproof zippers to keep rain and spray at bay. According to Pearl Izumi, the majority of the fabric used is made from recycled material, which is a nice touch.
Starting at the top, there’s a helmet-compatible hood for days when dryness and heat management are crucial. The hood includes an elastic cincher to keep it from flapping in the wind, good side coverage, and a bit of a brimmed visor to minimize exposure.
At the front, the main zipper is chunky and robust, and is said to be waterproof as well. Pulls at the top and bottom make it easy to vent from both the neck and the bottom to regulate temperature. Two zippered vents on the sides can be opened as well for additional air flow. The Vortex WxB boasts a 10k/25k waterproof/breathability rating so even fully zipped, it does offer a measure of air flow through the fabric itself.
Specs
- Weight: 340g (size large)
- One rear pocket
- Helmet-compatible hood
- Three layer construction
Velcro wrist closures provide a tight barrier against gale-force winds. In the back, there’s a zippered pocket for stashing small items and a stretchy, drop tail for keeping butts dryish. Reflective details can be found on the front and back of the jacket for maximum visibility.
I’m 6’3″ tall and weigh about 160lbs, and the size large is a good fit for me. Overall the jacket has a fit that moves well on the bike. At 340g for my test sample, this is a stout jacket that unfortunately is not packable. The Pearl Izumi Vortex WxB Hooded Jacket is offered in the Pine/Grass color shown and also Black/Turbulence, and in sizes small through extra, extra large.
POC Signal All-Weather Jacket
- MSRP: $350
- Colors: Black, Moonstone Grey
- Available at POC Sports and other online retailers
If there has to be a waterproof winner, it’s likely the POC Signal All-Weather Jacket. It’s the only jacket I haven’t managed to soak through despite Bellingham having record rainfall twice since I’ve moved here. This simple number really keeps the water out so you can enjoy trail for as long as your calories allow. At $350, it better be one of the best, and fortunately it is. There’s one large lumbar pocket to pack extra gloves inside and the rest of the shell is sealed tightly from the elements. The two-way zipper up front allows for quick jersey and pants adjustments. To top off the cake, there’s an NFC Medical ID inside so riders can enter their vitals in case of emergency.
Test pilot profile height: 175cm (5’9″) weight: 65kg (145lb) testing zone: Bellingham, Washington
The fit on this jacket might best be described as “athletic.” It’s form-fitting close to the body, and if you want space for layers you may want to size up. The sleeve cuffs are quite tight, and if you have particularly large hands you may want to try this jacket on before buying to make sure you can easily get it on and off. That tight cuff can make it tricky to pull the sleeve over gloves, but it also holds it securely in place once you get the two garments folded together.
Race Face Conspiracy Jacket
- MSRP: $212
- Colors: Deep Red, Black, Dijon
- Available at Race Face
Like their winter mountain bike gloves we recently reviewed, the Race Face Conspiracy Jacket is designed with going fast in mind. For example, there are slits in place of pit-zips, because of course you will be pinning-it and sweating constantly. This was likely the second most waterproof top I tried, holding up against some of the wettest rides I’ve ever been on. It’s relatively breathable for a rain jacket, which is saying a lot. It’s also too enduro for pockets since everything has to be strapped to the frame. There are no cinchers or fancy technical pieces. It’s just a rain shell that keeps you dry while riding trails.
Test pilot profile height: 175cm (5’9″) weight: 65kg (145lb) testing zone: Bellingham, Washington
As you might have guessed, this jacket also has a fairly “athletic fit” but there’s a little more room between the rider and material, provided they order their usual size. There could be space for a couple of tight layers underneath and a pair of small elbow pads depending on how hefty your arms muscle is. The waist and wrist openings are tight enough to keep water out while the wrists are still fairly easy to slide over glove cuffs to keep the moisture out. If you like to keep moving on wet rides, this jacket should work well.
Showers Pass Elements Jacket
The Showers Pass Elements Jacket is from the Portland-based brand that will compete with the performance and durability of the Endura MT500 above. The pair of hand warming pockets are zipped alongside two 34-inch-long vents for ample ventilation, and the material itself is more breathable than a lot of similar rain shells.
With reinforced shoulders and sturdy external fabric, the Elements jacket should hold up as long as any of the competition. While it is warm and dry inside, the internal fabric feels better than most against the skin, opening it up to rides when you just need a short sleeve jersey beneath. The hood fits nicely over a half shell helmet, and like the Endura MT500, it can be cinched back out of the rider’s field of view. The hood is also removable, and there’s a pouch inside the jacket to keep track of it. This is a welcomed feature, as it’s a rare case when I need to use the hood on a riding jacket.
Specs
- Weight: 447g
- Three pockets
- Two-point-five layer waterproof fabric
- Removable, adjustable, over-helmet hood
- Internal pocket with media port
The Showers Pass Elements jacket has a comfortable amount of space underneath, with room for a few layers and a back protector when necessary. The sleeves are long and can easily overlap glove cuffs when it’s really raining hard. The front hem is just the right height for my torso, and taller riders with long torsos might want to size up with this jacket for ample coverage.
Both of the hand pockets are mesh-lined to increase air flow, and the waterproof chest pocket is accessed internally to keep your media devices dry and functioning. Given the price, build quality, and timeless aesthetic, this jacket would be toward the top of my winter gear list. It’s comfortable, warm, and should last through multiple seasons of wet fun.
Specialized Trail Rain Jacket
- MSRP: $375
- Colors: Black
- Available at Specialized and other online retailers
If you want a riding jacket that can double as a short and dressy trench coat, the Specialized Trail Rain Jacket is undoubtedly the one. This jacket keeps the rain out almost as well as the POC listed above, while its subtle exterior keeps you looking clean and fresh anywhere around town. Its stretchy material feels ready to take a few dirt naps and get back up for more. The cinched hood slides over most half-shell helmets to keep your head clean and dry, and the zippers also do a solid job of keeping moisture out.
Test pilot profile height: 175cm (5’9″) weight: 65kg (145lb) testing zone: Bellingham, Washington
The torso is quite long, well suited for taller riders with slender builds. On my shorter frame, it legitimately looks like a short trench in person, providing ample overlap with my pants. The collar is quite high, keeping your chin warm if you decide to squeeze the hood under a helmet. While it’s undoubtedly a top-shelf option, the Trail Rain jacket is fairly straightforward in terms of features, which creates fewer places for rain to enter.
Velocio Trail Anorak
The Velocio Trail Anorak is a refreshing new take on mountain bike jackets. The Italian-made, pullover-style hardshell is semi form fitting and is both wind and waterproof. The drop tail and waist cinch provide a customized fit and coverage when on the bike. The large hood can fit a helmet and is also adjustable with large, easy to operate cord locks. The hand pockets open to a large pass-through space large enough for a guinea pig, and provide extra venting should you decide to carry your pet in your pocket.
Test pilot profile height: 152cm (5’0″) weight: 50kg (110lb) testing zone: Atlanta, Georgia
This lightweight jacket makes a versatile layering piece adaptable to all four seasons. Take it in your pack as an extra layer for spring/summer rides or combine it with a baselayer or thermal layer on the coldest winter days. For sizing, I have gone back and forth between XS and small on different Velocio pieces. This time I chose size small, and could have sized down as the overall length of the torso as well as the arms were a little large for my petite frame. This works fine for layering purposes though.
