The Rab Downpour Light is a minimalist, packable rain shell that punches above its weight for fast-and-light missions, daily commuting, and shoulder-season hiking. It trims nonessential features without sacrificing the core needs: reliable waterproofing, decent breathability, and a comfortable fit that layers well. Weighing in at 7.7 oz, it’s less than an ounce heavier than the popular Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket, but much nicer, with hipbelt-compatible side pockets, velcro wrist cuffs, and a soft external fabric that is much more comfortable to wear.

• Weight: 7.7 oz in a Men’s L (Women’s available too)
• Type: 2.5L Waterproof/breathable
• Hood Adjustment: One-way volume adjustment
• Hip-belt compatible hand pockets: Yes
• Pit-Zips: No
• Velcro-Wrist cuffs: Yes
• Packable: Yes, it fits in a hand pocket, but the zipper isn’t reversible
• Sizing: Athletic, consider sizing
• Materials: 20-denier Proflex 2.5-layer stretch membrane
• Pros: Very lightweight, hipbelt-compatible pockets, packs small, velcro wrist cuffs
• Cons: No pit-zips

Build and materials

The jacket uses a 2.5-layer Protex fabric (a PU membrane sandwiched between two layers of fabric) that keeps weight and bulk low while providing solid waterproof performance. The face fabric feels soft and flexible rather than crinkly, so it’s quieter and much more comfortable than many ultralight shells. The inside has the typical printed half-layer pattern to protect the membrane from clammy skin and reduce stick. The seams are fully taped, and the DWR sheds light to moderate rain effectively. In true downpours, it holds up, but you will eventually feel that “humid greenhouse” effect common to 2.5-layer shells; it’s the trade-off for keeping things light and compressible.

The Downpour Lite has hipbelt-compatible pockets, which you usually only find on British rain jackets.

Fit and comfort

Rab’s fit here is athletic but not skin-tight. There’s enough room for a light midlayer without feeling boxy. More than that, and you’ll want to size up. The hem length is practical—long enough to keep rain off the waistband, short enough to stay out of the way when moving quickly. The articulated sleeves and underarm patterning allow full reach with minimal hem lift, a detail you appreciate on scrambles or when placing poles. The tricot chin guard and soft interior print keep it comfortable against bare skin.

Features

As the name suggests, the Downpour Light keeps the feature set lean but thoughtful. Keep in mind that Rab is based in the UK, where they know how to make a decent rain jacket.

• One-way adjustable hood with a laminated brim: It cinches in back well to size to your head, giving good peripheral vision. It’s not a helmet-compatible storm hood, and you’ll want to use it with a billed cap if you have glasses.
• Two hand pockets with water-resistant YKK Aquaguard zippers that sit high enough to miss a hipbelt on most packs.
• Hem and wrist cuff adjustability: Simple drawcord hem and hook-and-loop cuffs seal out drafts.
• Main zip: Water-resistant YKK Aquaguard zipper with an interior storm flap. Operates smoothly without snagging frequently.

Breathability and ventilation

The Downpour Lite’s breathability is respectable for brisk hikes and mixed-output days. If you’re trail running or pushing uphill with a heavy pack, you’ll want to manage layers and crack the pockets for extra airflow. The absence of dedicated pit zips keeps weight down but reduces dump-venting options. If high-exertion breathability is your top priority, you may prefer a slightly heavier shell with pit zips.

Weight and packability

The Downpour Light disappears into its own pocket or stuffs easily into a pack lid. For travel and “just-in-case” weather insurance, it’s excellent. It’s also a strong commuter piece, slipping over street clothes without feeling stiff or plasticky.

The sleeves are cut long to keep the back of your hands warmer in rain.

Durability

As with most ultralight 2.5-layer shells, abrasion resistance is good for its class but not rugged. Brush and occasional scrambling are fine; sustained contact with granite or heavy bushwhacking will accelerate wear or destroy it completely. Keep it for trails, town, and lighter above-treeline days.

Who it’s for:

• Runners and fast-packers who prioritize weight and packability over maximum venting.
• Hikers and travelers who want a reliable, compact shell for variable weather.
• Commuters needing a quiet, unobtrusive rain layer.

Recommendation

The Rab Downpour Light 2.5-layer Rain Jacket balances cost, weight, and performance extremely well. Weighing just 7.7 oz, it’s only a smidge heavier than the OR Helium Rain Jacket but has hipbelt-compatible handwarmer pockets with YKK Aquaguard Zippers, which is a real value add in the pouring rain because it means you can hike with your hands in your pockets or access items in them without taking off your pack. The close-fitting hood can be adjusted around your crown and face with a single hand pull, and features a front bill so that drizzle doesn’t restrict your vision or soak a billed cap. Seal out the elements using the low-profile velcro cuff adjustments, and the articulated sleeves allow a full range of arm movement. You have to hand it to the Brits (England); they know how to make rain jackets.

SectionHiker never accepts payment for gear reviews or editorial coverage. When you buy through affiliate links on our site, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Help us continue to test and write unsponsored and independent gear reviews, hiking and backpacking FAQs, and free hiking guides.