Best Rain Gear for Hikers: Stay Dry in Any Storm

Hiking in the rain doesn’t have to mean being wet and cold. With the right gear, it’s easy to stay dry and keep going no matter how hard it pours. Whether hiking a short trail or spending days in the mountains, having good rain gear makes a big difference. The best rain gear is light, strong, and keeps water out while still letting your body breathe. Below are the top rain gear picks that every hiker in America should know about.

Waterproof Jackets That Keep You Dry

The most important piece of rain gear for hikers is a good rain jacket. Not all jackets are the same. Some look waterproof but start leaking after a while. The best jackets are made from high-quality materials like Gore-Tex or similar fabrics. These let sweat escape but block water from getting in.

Taped seams: These stop water from slipping through stitching holes.

Vents or pit zips: These help cool your body when hiking gets tough.

Adjustable hoods: Keeps your head dry even when the wind is strong.

Pockets with flaps or zippers: Keep your gear dry inside.

Top-rated jackets like the Patagonia Torrentshell, Columbia Watertight II, and Marmot PreCip are favorites among hikers. They’re lightweight, packable, and strong enough to survive heavy rain.

Pants That Protect Your Legs

Rain jackets are great, but if your legs are soaked, the hike becomes uncomfortable. Waterproof pants are the second line of defense. They slide easily over hiking pants and can be taken off once the rain stops.

Zippers on the legs: This makes them easy to put on without removing your boots.

Elastic waistband: Makes the fit more comfortable.

Lightweight and foldable: Easy to carry when the skies are clear.

Brands like Outdoor Research Helium Pants and REI Co-op Rainier Rain Pants offer solid choices for all types of trails.

Rain Boots and Waterproof Shoes

Wet feet are the worst thing on a hike. If your socks get wet, you can get blisters fast. That’s why good hiking boots or trail shoes with waterproof protection are key during rainy hikes.

Waterproof lining: Like Gore-Tex or eVent.

High ankle support: Keeps out puddles and mud.

Grippy soles: Prevents slips on wet rocks and dirt.

Shoes like Salomon X Ultra GTX, Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof, and Keen Targhee boots are popular among hikers for their water resistance and comfort.

Gaiters to Stop Splash and Mud

Even with waterproof boots, water and dirt can sneak in from the top. Gaiters are like shields that cover the gap between your pants and boots. They are perfect for muddy or snowy hikes.

You’re hiking in deep mud or slush.

There are lots of puddles.

You want to keep ticks or bugs off your legs.

Simple ones like the Outdoor Research Rocky Mountain Gaiters are enough for most trails.

Backpacks with Rain Covers

A soaked backpack can ruin everything inside it. Extra clothes, food, phones, and maps all need to stay dry. Many backpacks come with built-in rain covers. If yours doesn’t, it’s smart to buy one.

Fit tightly over your bag.

Be made of waterproof material.

Have a drawstring or elastic edge to stay in place.

Some hikers also use dry bags inside their backpacks. These are sealed bags that keep things dry no matter how bad the rain gets.

Waterproof Hats and Gloves

Don’t forget your head and hands. A wet hat can get cold fast. Gloves are even more important when it’s windy and wet. Cotton and wool gloves soak up water, so use ones made from synthetic or waterproof materials.

Wide-brimmed waterproof hats block both rain and sun.

A hood over your hat gives extra protection.

Look for waterproof layers and a warm lining.

Make sure they’re not too bulky for using trekking poles.

Umbrellas for Light Rain

It might sound odd, but some hikers love umbrellas. When the trail is open and the rain isn’t heavy, a strong hiking umbrella works well. It also helps when taking a break or setting up camp.

Lightweight and easy to fold.

Built to stand up to wind.

Able to attach to your backpack for hands-free use.

While not for every trail, umbrellas like the Six Moon Designs Silver Shadow are surprisingly helpful on long walks.

Base Layers That Dry Fast

What you wear under your rain gear matters too. Cotton traps water and stays wet. That’s bad for your skin and can make you cold. Instead, wear base layers made of synthetic or wool materials that dry quickly and help move sweat away from your body.

Made from polyester or merino wool.

Light and snug but not tight.

Comfortable to wear all day.

Try brands like Smartwool, Icebreaker, or REI’s synthetic layers.

Pack Towels and Ponchos

Sometimes rain gear isn’t enough. A quick-drying towel helps when you’re caught in a storm. Ponchos also give full body coverage and are easy to throw on fast.

Great for short hikes or sudden showers.

Big enough to cover your backpack too.

Easy to fold into small bags.

Though they’re not great in wind, ponchos are still a smart backup to keep in your pack.

How to Choose the Right Rain Gear

Buying all-new rain gear can cost a lot, so think about your needs first. Ask:

How often do you hike in the rain?

Do you hike in warm or cold places?

Do you need gear that packs small?

Try to test rain gear at home before hitting the trail. Even walking around your neighborhood in the rain can help you know if your jacket leaks or if your boots hold up.

Staying Dry and Safe on the Trail

No matter how good your gear is, staying smart matters too. Always check the weather before hiking. If there’s a thunderstorm warning, wait it out. Being wet is one thing—being in danger is another.

Keep extra clothes in a dry bag. Always carry snacks and water. If you get wet, change into dry clothes as soon as possible. Hypothermia can happen even in the summer if you're soaked and cold.

What do You Think?

Rain doesn’t have to ruin a good hike. With smart choices and strong gear, hikers can stay dry, warm, and happy no matter how the sky looks. Whether you're walking a local trail or backpacking through the mountains, rain gear makes all the difference. Always plan ahead, dress right, and enjoy the journey—even in the rain.