When you average the entire United States, individual states receive about 30 inches of precipitation each year. The rainiest state is Hawaii, and they see almost double the national average at a whopping 57 inches per year—that’s almost 5 feet of rain. Definitely time to invest in a rain jacket.
Rain doesn’t always come with warning, so a great rain jacket needs to be easy to slip into a bag or toss into the trunk of your car. Look for a lightweight jacket or shell that folds up into one pocket. The result is an easy-to-store pouch that shakes out into a rain jacket whenever you need it.
Of course, function is the most important consideration, since a rain jacket that leaks is a major bummer. Look for a jacket made from high performance fabric that’s engineered to ensure it’s breathable and waterproof at the same time. Some rain parkas are seam-sealed (so that seams and zippers can’t leak) and treated with a water repellant on the exterior.
A good rain jacket should also be comfortable. Look for a well-ventilated design with elasticized cuffs and a drawstring bottom so you can customize the fit. Some jackets include a hood with adjustable drawstring for sealing out rain and wind.
