Mountain Hardwear Typhoon Jacket
The Mountain Hardwear Typhoon jacket was recommended in a 2008 column by Outside Online's Gear Guy. The hooded rain jacket is made from Gore-Tex 2.5-layer PacLite, a material designed specifically to be light, packable and breathable while offering protection from wind and rain. Other features include a laminated waterproof membrane, taped seams, zippered pit vents and micro-chamois lined chin guard to prevent scratching from the zipper. The jacket is not insulated so it's light and easy to roll into your pack. The jacket has an average weight of just 15 oz.
Marmot Aegis
The 14-oz. Marmot Aegis earned an "Outside Magazine" Gear of the Year Award in 2009. The magazine found that the rain jacket offers a wealth of features for a relatively low price. Reviewers liked the pit zips, collar-stashable hood and fleece patches on the chin and behind the neck. The jacket uses a proprietary 2.5-layer waterproof, breathable material that has some stretch to it. Testers found that the stretch added comfort to the jacket. Other features include a double storm flap over the zipper, drawcord waist and water-resistant zippers on the hand, chest and sleeve pockets. REI reviewers gave the Aegis a 4.5-star rating (7 reviews, 5-star system). The Marmot Aegis is listed at 14 oz.
The North Face Venture Jacket
The North Face Venture jacket is lighter than either of the two aforementioned jackets at just 13.4 oz. The Venture received a solid 5-star rating on Backcountry.com after a total of 77 reviews. Reviewers raved about the combination of waterproofing, breathability and light weight. The jacket features TNF's HyVent shell and nylon lining. Taped seams help ensure you stay dry. The jacket rolls up into its own pocket, making it very easy to pack and store. Other features include a fully adjustable hood, pit-zip vents and two hand pockets.
Article Written By Joe Fletcher
Joe Fletcher has been a writer since 2002, starting his career in politics and legislation. He has written travel and outdoor recreation articles for a variety of print and online publications, including "Rocky Mountain Magazine" and "Bomb Snow." He received a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Rutgers College.
