Rainwear Basics

Articles: 4

A good rain jacket is an essential piece of gear for outdoor adventures. In this series, we cover how to pick the right rain jacket, how that rain jacket works to keep you dry and what you need to do to properly care for it.

  • hiker in a rain jacket

    Buying Advice

    How to Choose Rainwear

    1460 reviews with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars

    Use this guide to find the best rain jacket for your needs—with REI expert tips on waterproofing, breathability and key features.

  • closeup detail of a waterproof rain jacket

    Skills

    How Does Waterproof Rain Gear Work?

    263 reviews with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars

    Find out what makes GORE-TEX and other rainwear technologies tick. Learn exactly what water resistant, waterproof and breathable mean.

  • Three hikers wearing rain jackets on a wet day

    Care and Repair

    Rainwear: Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Care

    1389 reviews with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars

    Learn how to test your rainwear’s durable water repellent (DWR) coating and how to revive existing DWR or apply new DWR.

  • A close up image of a GoreTex rain jacket sleeve

    Care and Repair

    How to Care for Gore-Tex Rainwear

    428 reviews with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars

    Keep your GORE-TEX clothing waterproof with these cleaning tips, and learn how to tell if the durable water repellent coating needs renewal.