Latest news with #waterproof
Daily Mail
5 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Tired of earbuds falling out? Get all-day comfort and a secure fit for just $50.99
A good pair of headphones can improve any commute, any workout, and give you the pep in your step that you need. But, for many, in-ear earbuds can feel quite uncomfortable, and over-ear headphones are just not good enough for longer hours of wear — plus some headphones are not sweat or waterproof, which means you can't wear them while you're at the gym. BoneSoundz Pro Bone Conduction Waterproof Headphones These lightweight bone conduction headphones deliver sound through your cheekbones. They're currently down to just $65.99, but you can get an additional $15 off with code HELLO15. Shop them now and experience them for yourself. $50.99 (save $58.01) Shop BoneSoundz Pro Bone Conduction Waterproof Headphones are your solution to that, and they're currently down to just $65.99. You can also score an additional $15 off with code HELLO15 added at checkout. These bone conduction headphones use vibrations to deliver sound through your cheekbones, giving you a revolutionary open-ear design. You can listen to your favorite music AND stay tuned into your surroundings. They feature IPX8 water resistance — which is the best on the market — and can be submerged at a depth of three meters for up to 60 minutes. Battery life lasts a full 19 hours, according to the brand, which should be enough for a few trips to the gym or a full day at work. They even have 32GB of internal storage, so you can store your favorite music directly into it. No more having to worry about carrying your smartphone with you to the gym or on the go. They have quick-charge features too, and an in-built microphone if you need to take a quick call. While open-ear headphones can sound daunting to those of you who've never tried a pair before, these truly make a great option. My experience with open-ear headphones has always been pleasant, and I can easily hear my favorite tunes, without that plugged-in feeling you often get with noise cancellation. Open-ear headphones also happen to be much more lightweight, and make a better fit for runners as you can constantly keep an eye on your surroundings. Shop the BoneSoundz Pro Bone Conduction Waterproof Headphones now at 39 percent off and use code HELLO15 for an additional discount off your final order.
Telegraph
25-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Telegraph
Chic raincoats to keep you dry and stylish, from £50
It doesn't have to cost a fortune though – there are excellent finds on the high street at Muji, H&M and M&S (in the prettiest pale pink and the chain's own water-repellent Stormwear coating). Just beware garments that are style over substance, and lacking the critical element-fighting features. This kind of information can be found in product descriptions online, and garment tags in store. If it's not declared, it's probably not going to provide much protection. It should also have the kind of details that make it a pleasure to wear: 'Aside from the obvious functional points – taped or welded seams and a coated material to ensure waterproofing – small details take a raincoat from OK to your favourite essential,' says Johanne Dindler, head of design at hit Danish outerwear brand Rains. 'Think smartly placed ventilation to keep it breathable all year round, an adjustable drawstring hood, snap closures on the sleeves to seal out moisture, and a timeless and minimalist design that you actually want to wear.' The Rains Lohja bomber (above left) has a fleece lining for added warmth, or choose something roomy enough to layer a down gilet or jacket underneath, making it winter friendly too. After all, showers don't just happen in April.
Telegraph
22-05-2025
- Telegraph
Rab Firewall Mountain Jacket review: I sheltered from spring storms in this hardy jacket
£245 Buy now Price at Rab What is the Rab Firewall Mountain Jacket? Rab has been making tough kit for climbers and mountaineers since the 1980s and its new Firewall Mountain jacket does not disappoint. The brand makes a version for men and one for women, and uses a high-tech fabric to make it fully waterproof, windproof and also incredibly breathable. It means no getting soaked through, no freezing in the wind, and no clammy backs whatever the weather. At £245 this coat sits at the expensive end of the market, but its versatility and high performance come rain or shine meant it topped our listed of the best waterproof jackets, making it the go to choice for serious mountain hikers. JUMP TO: How we test waterproof jackets I tested out the version made for women and compared it to a number of other waterproof jackets I've tried out. I also compared it to the Rab Firewall jacket, a less breathable (but more affordable) version of the mountain jacket. I wore it for three weeks, testing it out in torrential rain and high winds on spring hikes in the Brecon Beacons, and its breathability to the test during in the Cotswolds during a heatwave. I looked for reliable waterproofing even in heavy rain (and especially whether the peaked hood would keep the rain off my face), good breathability in warmer temperatures and a comfortable fit that felt easy to move in with a rucksack and when covering longer distances. I also looked for well-placed pockets with sealed zips and checked that the whole jacket folded easily into a backpack when not in use, and checked out the sustainability claims. Why you can trust Telegraph Recommended Our thorough, real-world tests will always help you find the best product. No manufacturer ever sees Telegraph Recommended reviews before publication and we don't accept payment in exchange for favourable reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles. From tents to walking boots, all reviews are based on independent expert opinion and our hands-on testing. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more. Waterproofness Score: 10/10 Not all waterproof jackets are created equal. Some don't deserve the label and let heavy rain soak through in minutes, while others really will repel water and keep you dry for hours. Rab is firmly in the latter camp with the Firewall Mountain. The jacket is made with a three-layer Pertex Shield material, a type of nylon, and boasts a 20,000 Hydrostatic Head (HH) rating, which is a metric to test a fabric's ability to withstand water pressure before it's fully penetrated. In the UK, a fabric is defined as waterproof at 1,500mm, but top-level jackets are often 20,000mm, so the Firewall Mountain is about as waterproof as you can get - unless you want a coat that isn't breathable like a rubber mac. When I got caught in the rain the water beaded right off the outer shell and kept doing so even on long, hilly slogs under persistent rainfall. It's also fully windproof, which helps your core to stay warm despite the adverse weather. I also found the hood fit me well and it can be adjusted so it stays put in the wind. It sports a stiff peak to keep rain well away from your face, thankfully. Breathability Score: 10/10 Many waterproof jackets will do a good job of repelling water, but the compromise is often on breathability, meaning you'll get hot and sweaty fast if you're trying to hike or cycle in the rain. This is not the case with Rab's Firewall Mountain jacket. This jacket has a Moisture Vapour Transfer Rate (MVTR), which measures how quickly water vapour can pass through a material, of 20,000. Specifically, it measures the amount of water vapour that can pass through one square meter of a fabric or membrane in 24 hours. A higher MVTR rating like the Firewall Mountain's indicates a more breathable fabric. In practice, this was one of the best jackets I have tested that left me feeling cool rather than clammy. The material wicks away sweat and the design includes long pit zips under the arms to help with further ventilation. If you're hiking with a pack or a climbing harness on, or if you're doing stop-start scrambling, this jacket will stop you overheating and you won't need to pull it off every time you get moving. Design and fit Score: 9/10 I'm a size 12 and tested out the Rab Firewall Mountain jacket in an M, which fit me comfortably. The hood fits under a helmet and has enough room in it to fit layers underneath. The Firewall Mountain sits nicely under a rucksack and the soft-lined collar gelt lovely against my skin, there was no irritation or rubbing. The sleeves were on the long side for me but are adjustable with Velcro. The jacket has two hand pockets and one chest pocket, positioned to be accessible when you're wearing a harness or pack and has room to stash a map or a phone. Any niggles? The Firewall Mountain is only available in three colours (black, purple and blue) for women, while men get six colourways. You can see me in the mulberry version. While this jacket doesn't use harmful PFCs for waterproofing (the forever chemicals commonly used to weatherproof fabrics), it only uses 30 per cent recycled materials, whereas other Rab jackets usually use more. Technical specifications I compared Rab's Firewall Mountain with Jack Wolfskin's Highest Peak Jacket, the Best Value option in our product guide of the best waterproof jackets. Should you buy the Rab Firewall Mountain Jacket? The Rab Firewall Mountain Jacket is the most waterproof jacket I've tried out. It's highly breathable, making it an excellent option for hiking in the summer, and the small details in the pockets, pit zips and adjustable hood mean it's also one of the most versatile jackets you can find on the market. Yes, if: You're a keen mountaineer or an outdoors professional You want to invest in a jacket that can tackle all types of hiking You tend to overheat in waterproof jackets No, if: You just need a casual waterproof coat You're shopping for a bargain Rab Firewall Mountain Waterproof Jacket FAQs What is the waterproof rating of the Rab Firewall Mountain Jacket? The Rab Firewall Jacket is rated 20,000mm HH, which is highly waterproof and on test rain right beaded off its outer shell, keeping me dry. How breathable is the Rab Firewall Mountain? The Rab Firewall is 20,000 MVTR and is highly breathable – it was the most breathable jacket tested overall, so it's good for summer storms. Is the Rab Firewall Mountain lightweight? The Rab Firewall weighs 440g, a decent weight for a waterproof jacket for women. There's a lighter version, the aptly named Rab Firewall Light, at 280g and available for £200. Does the hood fit a climbing helmet? Yes, it's designed to – and it has three adjustment points, including front toggles, rear cinch and a stiffened peak. What's the difference between the Rab Firewall and Rab Firewall Mountain Jacket? The new Rab Firewall Mountain has pack-compatible pockets and is more breathable than its counterpart, the Rab Firewall, but it's also more expensive. Does it use eco-friendly materials? This jacket doesn't use PFCs (chemicals used in waterproofing that are harmful to the environment) and uses 30 per cent recycled materials. Rab in general has good eco credentials.
Fox News
20-05-2025
- Fox News
Wireless, waterproof bionic arm with 360-degree wrist rotation
Most of us do not think twice about picking up a cup of coffee, sending a quick text or carrying groceries in from the car. For people who use prosthetic hands, though, these everyday tasks can be a real challenge. That is why the arrival of the Hero PRO by Open Bionics is such big news. This new bionic hand is waterproof, wireless and faster and stronger than anything that came before it. It is designed to help people who rely on prosthetics move through life with more ease and confidence. Even if you do not need a device like this yourself, the technology behind Hero PRO is changing what is possible for thousands of people, and it is worth knowing how far things have come. Let's dive into what makes the Hero PRO so remarkable and why it captures so much attention. Hero PRO is crafted from robust Nylon PA12 using advanced 3D printing, making it both tough and incredibly lightweight. In fact, it is the lightest bionic hand system available today. The design is sleek and customizable with more than 50 cover options in different colors and patterns, allowing users to swap looks to match their style and personality. The Hero PRO is the only bionic hand that is both fully wireless and waterproof. Rated IPX7, which means it can be submerged in water up to about 3 feet deep for 30 minutes without damage, it can handle splashes and even submersion, so users do not have to worry about getting it wet during daily activities. Wireless MyoPods, placed on the skin, pick up muscle signals to control the hand, eliminating the need for invasive implants or bulky wires. This bionic hand is twice as fast as leading competitors, with fingers that open and close rapidly to keep up with busy lives. It can carry up to 57 pounds, doubling the load capacity of previous models, making tasks like carrying groceries or lifting heavy objects much easier. The patented thumb design uses a single motor for powerful and precise grips, while the index finger features a touchscreen-compatible tip for seamless device use on the go. Hero PRO offers more wrist flexion and rotation than any other bionic hand, with up to 45 degrees of manual flexion in both directions and a full 360-degree rotation. Users can quickly switch between work and sports modes, thanks to a USMC-standard wrist connector and more than 50 compatible activity attachments. With seven grip modes, including a precision key grip, users can handle everything from typing and cooking to pushing a stroller or tying shoelaces. These grips can be customized and updated wirelessly through the Sidekick App. A single four-hour charge powers the Hero PRO for a full day. The battery is cleverly miniaturized and integrated directly into the hand, helping to keep the weight down. USB-C charging makes powering up quick and easy, whether at home or on the go. The development of Hero PRO was shaped by feedback from around 1,000 users, including influencer Tilly Lockey, who lost both hands to meningitis as a child. Tilly played a key role in testing and refining the technology, and her experience highlights just how transformative the Hero PRO can be. She describes being able to multitask effortlessly, like pulling a suitcase and drinking hot chocolate at the same time, and even detaching the hand to control it remotely using muscle signals. Pricing for advanced bionic hands like the Hero PRO is not always straightforward. Open Bionics, the company behind this technology, does not list a fixed price on its website. Instead, they encourage interested users to contact them directly for a personalized quote, since each device is custom-made to fit the individual's needs. For context, most high-end bionic arms on the market can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $80,000, depending on the features and customization required. Open Bionics aims to make their devices more affordable than traditional options, with some of their earlier models reportedly costing about five times less than conventional robotic prosthetics. However, the exact price for the latest models, including the Hero PRO, will depend on factors like insurance coverage, customization and specific user requirements. If you are interested in learning more about pricing or the process, it is best to reach out directly to Open Bionics for a detailed quote tailored to your needs. Technology like the Hero PRO is not just about gadgets and gears. It is about helping people do more of the things they love with less hassle. For those who rely on prosthetic hands, every improvement can mean a world of difference, whether that is carrying a heavy bag, using a smartphone or simply feeling more confident in daily life. Even if you do not need a prosthetic yourself, it is inspiring to see how far this technology has come and how it continues to open new possibilities for so many people. What everyday challenges do you think advanced bionic technology could help overcome, and what would you most want to see in the next generation of prosthetic devices? Let us know by writing us at For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Follow Kurt on his social channels: Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions: New from Kurt: Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
CNN
12-05-2025
- Climate
- CNN
The best rain pants that will actually keep you dry in 2025, tested by editors
The best rain pants we tested Best rain pants: Outdoor Research Foray 3L and Aspire 3L Best budget rain pants: Marmot PreCip Eco Full-Zip Rain Pants When the weather gets rough, the best rain jacket will keep your torso dry, but what about your legs? If you're spending lots of time commuting or hiking in the rain, wet pants and legs can lead to a miserable experience, which is why a pair of the best rain pants is a critical piece of your outdoor gear kit. To find a pair that's actually waterproof, easy to put on and won't fall apart after one storm, I tested seven pairs from brands like Outdoor Research, Marmot and others. After wearing them in the shower, on my Peloton bike and in a rare Colorado rain storm, these two are the best I found. Best rain pants Outdoor Research Men's Foray 3L Rain Pants By far the best pair of rain pants I tested, the Foray pants fit well, are completely waterproof and are easy to put on, even while wearing hiking boots. Outdoor Research Women's Aspire 3L Rain Pants The women's version is the same as the men's except when it comes to the fit/cut, meaning you'll stay protected and comfortable in the worst storms. Best budget rain pants Marmot Men's PreCip Eco Full-Zip Rain Pants Spending $200 on rain pants can be a lot, so if you don't need the best of the best, these Marmot pants are the pair for you. Marmot Women's PreCip Eco Full-Zip Pants A full zip means they're easy to put on and incredibly breathable, while still being decently waterproof and lightweight. Throughout my testing, the Outdoor Research Foray led the pack in every test. Made with a thick, three-layer construction, the Foray pants perform just how you want and need, so you can stay dry no matter the weather. They're perfectly waterproof, durable, easy to put on and breathable. If you're going to spend any extended time in the rain, these are the pants you need to buy. It's a no-brainer that rain pants should be waterproof. But surprisingly, that was a hard mark to hit when I wore each of the pants I tested in the shower for five minutes. A shower dumps more water than your typical rainy day, so while it is an intense test, it does a good job at pushing fabrics, seams and zippers to their limits. Most pants I tested had dampness or leaked from the shower test, but not the Outdoor Research Foray. I was completely dry when I stepped out of the shower, and zero water got through the zippers and seams. Even the tissue I put into the back pocket was bone-dry. While all the pants I tested are probably fine for short periods or during a light rain, if you want the water to stay out no matter the weather, you should get a pair of the Forays. The waterproofness of rain pants doesn't just involve the fabric, though. In addition to keeping your legs dry, a good pair of rain pants should extend down to your boots to keep your ankles and feet dry too. The Foray pants were the perfect length for this and covered the top part of my waterproof boots so absolutely zero water could come in. The length wasn't too long, which meant I didn't have a ton of fabric bunched up around my ankles, but they were still long enough that the pant legs didn't expose my boots while walking, even when I took big steps up. Because fit and length are so important to keeping your legs and feet dry, the Foray's and the Aspire's wide size ranges made them shine. The Foray, which is the version for men, is available from XS to XXL in regular, short and tall lengths. The Aspire, which are nearly identical to the Foray except are specifically designed for women, can be bought in sizes XXS to 4X in regular and short lengths. I found the Foray to fit loosely but still true to size. Since you typically wear shorts or pants underneath rain pants, I loved the loose fit, which kept me comfortable and allowed me full range of motion. Beyond being perfectly waterproof, rain pants should be easy to put on while wearing hiking boots. If a rainstorm pulls in while you're on the trail, you don't want to waste time taking them off to put on rain pants. That's why Outdoor Research designed the Foray and Aspire with massive side zippers that run nearly the entire length of the pants. The zipper opened the pants to my mid-thigh, which created a huge opening that my boots slipped through easily. Plus, when pants have big openings like the Foray, there's a smaller chance of you rubbing and stretching the material when shoving your hiking boots through them. This is a big plus for longevity. These massive zippers also mean that keeping cool is simple. The breathability of these pants was some of the best I tested, thanks to the enormous opening that dumps heat in seconds. Plus, the two-way zipper means you can create an opening as big or as small as you want while maintaining protection from the rain. Even though I loved these pants, and they're the pair I'll reach for whenever I need to stay dry, they're probably not for everyone. The durable and waterproof fabric, while amazing, does make these the heaviest pants in my testing pool. The pair I tested, which were a size small and regular length, weighed 13.54 ounces. The next heaviest pair I tested was the Arc'teryx Beta Pants (again in a regular-length small) at 11.04 ounces. The Foray pants do, however, pack into themselves to form a package about the size of a toy football, but that still might be too big for backpackers and ultralight hikers. Another big yellow light is the price. It's no joke to spend $200 on a pair of rain pants; however, if you plan on using rain pants for an extended period, you'll appreciate the performance and features of the Foray and Aspire. The Outdoor Research Foray and Aspire are no doubt the best rain pants I tested. They're comfortable, durable, fit well and are actually waterproof. The enormous zipper means they're easy to put on and can regulate your temperature extremely well. If you need a pair of rain pants to perform, there's no question you should buy these. Not everybody will want to spend $200 on rain pants, and that's more than understandable. For folks who need a pair to pack just in case or aren't planning on staying in the rain for too long, the Marmot PreCip Eco Full-Zip Pants are the perfect option. Similar to the Outdoor Research Foray and Aspire, these Marmot pants feature a huge zipper that runs the entire length of the pants. Unlike the Outdoor Research pants, the Marmot PreCip Eco can be unzipped into two pieces. A couple of Velcro patches at the waist keep the front and back halves connected if you don't want them to separate once unzipped, but this big opening means these pants can easily be put on while wearing boots and have excellent breathability. This big zipper is also why the Marmot PreCip Eco Full-Zip pants won the spot as my budget pick. All other options priced in the same ballpark had much smaller zippers that only opened up to the lower leg, and I had a hard time getting my hiking boots through them. Besides the long zipper, these Marmot pants perform just well enough and have just the right features to make them the best budget pair. I wish the pant legs were a bit longer, as I had to pay attention to them more than the Foray to ensure my ankles and the top of my boots didn't start peeking out. I also wish the waist had better adjustability with something like a drawstring or bungee, as currently the pants only have two Velcro patches that can sort of act like an adjustment. The Marmot pants also performed decently well in my shower test, and while they weren't perfect, they did well enough to survive the occasional rainstorm. After five minutes in my artificial downpour, I noticed some slight dampness on the thighs of my shorts. It wasn't a massive amount of water, but some moisture did seep in, which means they weren't as waterproof as the Outdoor Research Foray pants. This makes sense, as the Marmot pants use a 2.5-layer waterproof construction, which isn't as premium as the three-layer build found in the Foray. While the Marmot's 2.5-layer design was a little less waterproof, it does mean the pants weigh significantly less than the Foray. I weighed them (size small, regular length) at 10.48 ounces, which is heavier than the ultralight options that weighed around 6 ounces but still significantly lighter than the Outdoor Research pair. The other downside of their 2.5-layer build, however, is their comfort. The Marmots have that clammy, sticky feeling that plagues rain jackets, while the Foray and Aspire have a much more comfortable feel. While they might not keep you dry for hours on end, if you want a pair of budget rain pants that don't feel like a fight to put on, the Marmot PreCip Eco Full-Zip Rain Pants are the ones for you. A post shared by CNN Underscored (@cnnunderscored) I wore each of the seven rain pants in the men's versions and sizing several times to put them through their paces. Here are all the tests I conducted. Performance Waterproofness: I wore each pair of rain pants, ensuring all zippers were closed, and stood in the shower for five minutes. I turned around in circles and noted any wet spots once I got out. I also put tissues in each of the pockets to test if they were waterproof too. Breathability: I rode on a stationary bike for 10 minutes while wearing each pair of pants with any venting zippers fully open. I judged how hot my legs got during and after the bike ride. Ease of use: I put each pair of rain pants on while wearing big hiking boots, taking note of how difficult or easy it was. I also zipped and unzipped all zippers, fastened any adjustments and worked with each feature of the pants to test how easy they were to use. Comfort: I put the pants on over shorts so I could feel the material against my skin. I judged how sticky, clammy or uncomfortable each pair felt. Stretch and mobility: While wearing the pants, I performed multiple squats and stretches to find any tight spots. I also pulled on the fabric with my hands to judge their stretchiness. Durability: I rubbed the leg of each pair of pants on the same patch of concrete 10 times, then noted any scuffs, holes or other damage. Design Packability: I packed down each pair of pants — into integrated stuff sacks if they had them — and scored them based on size. Fit and adjustability: I wore each pair of pants and judged their fit and length against the others, noting if the pants felt big, small, long or short. Weight: I weighed each pair of pants on a food scale. Pockets: I counted and used all the pockets on each pair of pants. I also noted if the pockets were actually waterproof or not. Sizing and colors: I researched and counted all available sizes and colors for each pair of pants. Warranty: I researched the warranty of all the pants and ranked them against one another. By partnering your favorite rain jacket with a sturdy pair of rain pants, you'll be able to stay completely dry in the worst weather. Rain pants might not always seem necessary, but if you're going to spend an extended amount of time in wet weather, or you need to keep your pants dry, they're critical. First, consider how long you'll be in the rain when shopping for the best rain pants. If you need a pair for quick commutes or times you'll be spending an hour or less in the rain, you don't need to splurge on the best pants. A lighter, more packable pair that might not be as waterproof would do the trick. On the other hand, if you're working outside, camping, backpacking or just spending a long time in the rain, completely waterproof pants with all the best bells and whistles might be more attractive. Waterproofness The waterproof technology in rain pants works identically to what's found in rain jackets. You can read more about fabrics, waterproof membranes and how brands layer them in our rain jacket guide, but here's an overview. The membranes used in rain pants are lightweight, waterproof, windproof and breathable. They work because they have tiny pores that are too small for water to get through but big enough for air vapor to escape. The most popular brand that makes these membranes is Gore-Tex, though many brands make their own versions as well. When you see that a pair of rain pants is '3L' or '2.5L,' that's referring to the number of layers in the fabric. Pants with two or two and a half layers are typically cheaper, lighter and less durable because they don't have as many layers protecting the waterproof membrane. Three-layer pants, on the other hand, are the most durable and perform the best, but they typically come with a weight and price penalty, and aren't as soft or pliable. Breathability Another thing to consider with these waterproof membranes is breathability. While brands tout breathability, it can be difficult for the membrane alone to regulate temperature. Since humidity and outside temperature play a big part in how the hot air your body produces can escape rain jackets and pants, if it's too humid or hot outside, that vapor can become trapped inside your shells. That's why zippers that allow for ventilation are so crucial. Luckily, many rain pants have massive zippers that run the entire length of the pants for ultimate breathability. Fit and design Beyond their technical fabrics, certain design elements can make or break a pair of rain pants. Since they'll be worn over shorts or another pair of pants, they need to be loose-fitting and shouldn't restrict your movement. And since they have to fit so loosely, some sort of adjustment at the waist, like a drawstring or bungee, is super helpful. When searching for rain pants for hiking, traveling, cycling, fishing or golfing, you'll also want to consider how easy they are to put on. Since you probably won't put them on before you head out the door, it's important to find a pair with wide leg openings so your hiking boots or golf shoes don't catch on the fabric. Pants that have longer zippers up the sides make this experience much easier. The length of your rain pants can be a big factor too. If they're too short, your shoes will be exposed, and even if they're waterproof, rain can enter from the top opening and soak your feet in no time. However, if they're too long, you'll have a ton of fabric scrunched up at your ankles, which can quickly become a serious annoyance. Most rain pants I tested hit the sweet spot where they're long enough to cover my ankles (and stay there), while limiting extra fabric. Many rain pants are offered in short, regular and tall sizes to help accommodate more people. Patagonia Men's Torrentshell 3L Rain Pants The sibling to our favorite rain jacket almost topped out my rain pants tests too, but it had one fatal flaw. Patagonia Women's Torrentshell 3L Rain Pants During my shower test, the ventilation zippers leaked, letting water in. These pants were a top contender in my testing, but I couldn't overlook the leaking. The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L pants are a fantastic pair of trousers. They're easy to put on while wearing boots, the inside is decently comfy, the fit is right and they come in a ton of sizes and lengths. They probably would have been my pick for the best rain pants, except they didn't prove to be perfectly waterproof. During my shower test, I could feel water coming through one of the side zippers and trickling onto my right calf after a couple of minutes. I even hopped in the shower a second time and made sure the zipper was completely closed, because they were so close to being my top pick. Unfortunately, the second shower test yielded the same result. If these pants had a more water-resistant zipper, they would've been a shoo-in for my favorite rain pants. Marmot Men's Minimalist Pertex Rain Pants This solid pair of rain pants was another close contender for our top crown. They were one of only two pairs that were 100% waterproof in my tests. Marmot Women's Minimalist Pertex Rain Pants The issue that kept these pants from a top spot? Their side zippers. If they were just a bit longer, it'd be easier to put on the pants while wearing boots and they'd be more breathable. The Marmot Minimalist Pertex Rain Pants were also close to earning a winning spot. They were perfectly waterproof (including their pockets!), didn't feel too clammy against my skin and had a nice belt adjustment at the waist. The side zippers, however, were just too small compared to the others. Both of our winners can be thrown on and off with little to no resistance when wearing boots, but the leg openings of the Minimalist Pertex pants were just too small. If the zippers extended above the knee, they would be much easier to put on, more breathable and a serious contender for the best rain pants out there. Outdoor Research Men's Helium Rain Pants These lightweight pants could be a good choice for hikers, but they aren't as waterproof or protective as I'd like. Outdoor Research Women's Helium Rain Pants One of the big downsides to these pants was their length. They were the shortest pair I tested and exposed my ankles to the rain much more than others. The Helium Rain Pants from Outdoor Research were the lightest pair I tested, and neatly pack into themselves for easy transport. For that reason alone, they're a good contender for hikers and travelers in need of protection from the rain. However, I found these pants to be shorter than all the others I tested, which left my ankles and socks exposed to the elements, where they quickly soaked up water. Plus, the zippers on the sides aren't that big, so putting them on while wearing hiking boots wasn't easy. For the price, we think the Marmot PreCip Eco pants are a better option, although they do weigh more. Helly Hansen Men's Loke Pants 2.0 These lightweight pants weren't as waterproof as others and had the worst performance in my durability test. Helly Hansen Women's Loke Pants 2.0 It was also hard to put these pants on while wearing boots due to their small leg openings. Unfortunately, the Helly Hansen pants didn't stand out from the other rain pants I tested. Their 2.5-layer construction meant they felt clammy and sticky on my skin, which could have been overlooked if they could keep water out better. After five minutes in the shower, the sides of my shorts had wet spots, and I could feel some dampness on my lower legs too. The Loke Pants 2.0 would also benefit from a longer zipper so they're easier to put on while wearing boots and a more durable outer fabric, which ripped when I rubbed it on concrete. How do you wash rain pants? How do you wash rain pants? You can and should wash rain pants several times per season, just like your rain jacket. You can use a technical wash like Nikwax and run your machine on cold and delicate. And don't skip throwing them in the dryer either, because the heat can help reactivate your pants' durable water repellent (DWR). Are rain pants good for snow? Are rain pants good for snow? Since rain pants are waterproof, they are good for snow. However, they don't have any insulation, so you should wear base layers and another pair of hiking pants beneath your rain pants if winter is calling your outdoors. Do rain pants go over regular pants? Do rain pants go over regular pants? Yes, rain pants go over regular pants. They're designed with a loose fit so you can easily put them on over the pants you're already wearing without restricting your movement. Do you need rain pants for backpacking? Do you need rain pants for backpacking? You don't necessarily need rain pants for backpacking, but if there's a lot of rain in the forecast and you don't want to hike in wet shorts, they can be helpful. CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test the products in our testing guides and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have a skilled team of writers and editors with many years of testing experience who ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. For this product review, our outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor Kai Burkhardt wore all seven pairs of rain pants in the shower, while biking and while doing stretches. After taking them on and off several times and examining and testing all their features, he found two worth your money.
