Semi OT: Light packable rain shell

[Jaybee]

So what's the current standard for a light packable rain shell that would be used around town, on day hikes, maybe on some MTB rides? Still the Patagonia Houdini? Would like something that lets you survive for a few minutes with a modicum of dryness but also doesn't take all the space in your pack or maybe even fits in a pocket. I've got a nice rain shell already that is both breathable and very waterproof, but it doesn't pack down small at all. On the bike I use a Giro windshell that stays dry for long enough and dries quickly once it wets out. This is for non-bike use primarily, so not really interested in EuroPro fits or exceptionally garish designs/colors.

[mktng]

i have a Sugoi helium jacket.
super pack able. super light.
i'd recommend it.

its a runners? jacket. no pockets.

[AngryScientist]

there may be better out there? but my houdini has become one of my most indispensable pieces of travel kit. it packs down so small and is great for managing unknown or changing weather conditions. it has saved my butt more than a few times both on and off bike.

mtb rides, i dont know, it's pretty thin, and i wouldnt want to snag the material on branches or anything like that.

that said, mine has done a LOT of travelling and mostly stuffed in backpacks, saddle bags and jersey pockets and it has held up well.

[Gummee]

I'm a fan of my Shake Dry.

Probably not the best thing for mtn biking, but I've run in the pouring rain and snow in it and stayed dry (-ish my lower half still got wet)

M

[Marc40a]

I use both the Patagonia Houdini and the now defunct Alpine Houdini.

The first I use strictly as a wind layer. I actually find myself using the houdini vest more than the hoody.

The Alpine Houdini is a little bit heavier (like an ounce) but it's a proper rain jacket. That's what goes in my pack for multi-day rides/endurance events. I take the pants as well.

The Alpine Houdini has been discontinued but the Helium II from Outdoor Research is essentially the same thing - an ultralight 2.5 layer WPB jacket. I picked one up for my wife.

All of the above pack down to the about size of a tennis ball.

[cdn_bacon]

Big fan of Sportful Stelvio

[Ozz]

Originally Posted by Jaybee

So what's the current standard for a light packable rain shell that would be used around town, on day hikes, maybe on some MTB rides? ...This is for non-bike use primarily, so not really interested in EuroPro fits or exceptionally garish designs/colors.

I have one of these: Showers Pass Syncline

Packs fairly small, keeps me dry, longer tail so good for bikes, but not so long it is goofy looking off the bike.

On sale at REI (link) for <$80

Looks pretty similar to the Houdini....

[572cv]

Gore Shake Dry works as advertised. My 2 cents.

[makoti]

Originally Posted by Jaybee

So what's the current standard for a light packable rain shell that would be used around town, on day hikes, maybe on some MTB rides? Still the Patagonia Houdini?

Didn't know what this was. Looked it up, and LO! If you're a small, you're in luck. $67

https://www.rei.com/product/893303/p...nt-jacket-mens

[tkbike]

My current favorite is the Rab flashpoint pull on.
I only use this for long trail runs or road rides, backpacking I use the Muztag.
I find anything from Patagonia is sized for smaller sized folks.
Rab and mountain hardware seem to have the best fit for average to taller sized peeps.
For reference I am 6’2”, 31” waist, ridiculously long arms and 167 lbs, I can go medium or large depending on cut in Rab or MH. I would need to balloon up to an extra large in Patagonia to not have the sleeve stop between my elbow and wrist.