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Rainwear Guide

A man wearing a red rain jacket is walking in the forest.

Rain or shine comfort in all kinds of weather

Weather can change rapidly in the mountains while hiking, backpacking and during other activities. Montbell rainwear is designed to keep you moving in comfort across all kinds of weather conditions.

The basics

The construction of rainwear fabrics

Rain jackets and pants have a membrane that is waterproof to keep out rain, and is breathable to vent built-up moisture. A 3-layer waterproof material has a face fabric and lining laminated to the membrane, while a 2-layer construction has only a face fabric attached to the membrane. Utilizing different materials and constructions allows us to create products emphasizing different characteristics such as weight and strength.

3-layer fabric construction

An illustration introducing the structure of rain wear fabric. The explanation is written before the image.

The important function of rain gear: "Waterproof & breathable"

"Waterproof & breathable" are the functions that shut out raindrops and other water droplets while efficiently releasing water vapor from perspiration out of the clothing. All Montbell rainwear models feature excellent waterproofing and breathability.
An illustration introducing water pressure resistance guidelines for different scenarios. Normal rain is about 50mm to about 1500mm. When sitting, it's about 2000mm. When kneeling, it's about 10000mm.

What exactly does waterproof mean?


Waterproof refers to the ability of a material in preventing water from permeating through from the outside to the backside. This performance is evaluated by placing a column of water on the outside layer of a material and applying pressure until water begins to seep through, at which point the height of the water is measured in millimeters. This numerical value is referred to as water pressure resistance. Montbell rainwear utilizes material with a water pressure resistance of 20,000mm or more.
Waterproof should not be confused with the term water repellent, which refers to the shedding of water droplets on the surface of a material.
An illustration introducing the function of releasing moisture from inside the wear through the fabric.

What exactly does breathable mean?


The ability to release moisture (water vapor) from inside the garment is known as "breathability." For activities with high physical exertion, like hiking, if the breathability of your rain shells is low and they don't allow moisture to escape, it can be dangerous. Even if the rain is kept out, the moisture from your evaporated sweat can get you wet and lead to a drop in body temperature.

Features & functions

The 3 options for waterproof breathable fabric

DRYTEC

Excellent Breathability: Montbell's proprietary DRYTEC fabric offers waterproof protection and excellent breathability for superior comfort even during intense activities.

DRYTEC

Proven Reliability: Montbell's proprietary DRYTEC fabric provides reliable waterproof protection and breathability across a wide range of conditions.

GORE-TEX Fabrics

GORE-TEX delivers a high level of waterproof breathable properties ready for harsh conditions.

Features that reduce weight & maintain comfort

K-MONO CUT

Image of a man wearing a rain jacket featuring K-MONO CUT. The explanation follows later.
The K-Mono Cut is designed to reduce seamlines to the upmost limit from the areas such as the shoulders where backpack straps rest. This creates a rain jacket that is lighter and has fewer places for water to penetrate, while maintaining mobility of the arms and shoulders.

Smart Sewing Technology

An illustration introducing smart sewing. The explanation follows later.
Excess fabric is cut away from the seamline to lighten the weight, then seam tape is applied to ensure water protection. This technique effectively enhances durability by fully covering sewing threads.

Lightweight seam tape

Seam tape is applied to the fabric. The explanation follows later.
Compared to conventional seam tape, we use advanced technology to apply an extremely thin and lightweight seam tape. While ensuring waterproofing, it also contributes to weight reduction.

Pursuit of waterproofing and water repellency

The fabric and thread are water-repellent, with many water droplets on the fabric.
Established in rain-heavy Japan, Montbell pursues every detail possible to enhance water protection. That's why we go as far as applying a water repellent finish to the thread used for stitching the fabric.

3-way adjustable hood

An illustration showing how to wear and adjust the hood. The explanation follows later.
The hood is adjustable in three location to deliver an excellent fit, follow head movements and maintain visibility. The brim features a core material to keep its shape while blocking out water.

Pockets placed for easy access

A hand is inserted into the left pocket of the rain jacket. The explanation follows later.
The pockets are strategically placed to maintain easy access while wearing a backpack and during various activities.

Rain pants available in a wide range of sizes

Three illustrations of rain pants are lined up. The middle one is regular size. The left is short size, the right is long size. The explanation follows later.
Across our rain pants lineup, you will find 14 different Asian Sizes. In the same waist circumference, there is a regular hem length, a short hem length (6cm shorter than regular), and a long hem length (6cm longer than regular). We also offer 4 different Western Sizes all in a set hem length. This wide variety in sizing allows you to find the model that fits you exactly right.
Not all models are offered in every size. Check the product page to see available sizes.

Jackets & pants sold separately for variety in choice

An illustration introducing that jacket and pants combinations can be chosen. The explanation follows later.
Choose the perfect set of rainwear to match your pursuit or preferences. Choose different sizing for the jacket and pants for a perfect fit. Go with a bright, high-visibility color on top and dark, stain-hiding color on the bottom. Or, select a lightweight jacket coupled with durable pants.

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  • Ultralight models
  • Lightweight & durable models
  • Simple & Essential models
  • Distinctive features models
Ultralight models

Torrent Flier

Introduction to Torrent Flier. Made with DRY-TEC material. Breathability is 5 out of 5 stars. Durability is 3 out of 5 stars.
Weight: 8.6 oz / 245 g
A lightweight, compact model with high breathability.
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Peak Shell

Introduction of Peak Shell. Uses GORE-TEX material. Breathability is 3 out of 5 stars. Durability is 3 out of 5 stars.
Weight: 7 oz / 198 g
Lightweight, compact model with pit zips that can quickly release moisture from inside the garment.
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Versalite

Introduction of Versalite. Uses DRY-TEC Fabrics material. Breathability is 5 out of 5 stars. Durability is 2 out of 5 stars.
Weight: 5.9 oz / 166 g
The lightest model of Montbell rainwear with high breathability
Rain pants are also available.
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Lightweight & durable models

Storm Cruiser

Introduction to Storm Cruiser. Made with DRY-TEC material. Breathability is 4 out of 5 stars. Durability is 4 out of 5 stars.
Weight: 10 oz / 284 g
Our flagship model with a well-balanced array of essential and high-level features.
Rain pants are also available.
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Tempest

Introduction of Storm Cruiser. Uses GORE-TEX material. Breathability is 3 out of 5 stars. Durability is 3 out of 5 stars.
Weight: 9.1 oz / 259 g
High-performance model with pit zips for quickly releasing excess heat and moisture from inside the garment.
Rain pants are also available.
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Rain Trekker

Introduction of Rain Hiker. Made with GORE-TEX material. Breathability is 3 out of 5 stars. Durability is 5 out of 5 stars.
Weight: 11.3 oz / 320 g
A model with a slightly relaxed silhouette and excellent durability.
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Simple & Essential models

Thunder Pass

Introduction of Thunder Pass. Made with DRY-TEC material. Breathability is 2 out of 5 stars. The strength is rated 5 out of 5 stars.
Weight: 11.6 oz / 328 g
A durable model suitable for everything from entry-level to hard use.
Rain pants are also available.
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Rain Hiker

Introduction of Rain Hiker. Made with DRY-TEC material. Breathability is 2 out of 5 stars. The strength is rated 3 out of 5 stars.
Weight: 9.5 oz / 269 g
A 2-layer entry-level model with essential features.
Rain pants are also available.
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Distinctive features models

Convertible Rain

Introduction of Convertible Rain. Made with DRY-TEC material. Breathability is 2 out of 5 stars. The strength is rated 3 out of 5 stars.
Weight: 9 oz / 256 g
Model with sleeves that can be detached at the elbow via zipper, useful throughout the year.
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Pack wrap Rain

Introduction of Pack wrap rain. Made with DRY-TEC material. Breathability is 2 out of 5 stars. The strength is rated 3 out of 5 stars.
Weight: 11.1 oz / 314 g
A model that can be worn over a daypack.
Asian size only

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The weight is for the Western size model.

Models utilizing specific features

Montbell designs rainwear with specific features such as pit zippers for ventilation and models with detachable hoods, sleeves and pant legs.

Pit zips for quick ventilation of moisture

An image of a man wearing the jacket, opening the pit zip. The explanation follows later.
These models feature pit zips under both armpits to deliver mechanical ventilation of moisture to help maintain comfort on hot days and during active pursuits. The zippers are placed along seamless sections of fabric to allow smooth and easy open and close.
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Full length side zippers

An image showing the steps of wearing rain pants, from the side zipper being open to connecting the zipper for wear. The explanation follows later.
The sides fully open to allow for quick and easy on and off over mountaineering boots and in sudden downpours.
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Essentials for a More Comfortable Rainy Day

  • Rain hats & caps icon image

    Rain hats & caps

    While a hood works wonders, waterproof breathable hats and caps deliver functional and versatile performance in the rain. Caps can be worn under a hood, while the brim will help maintain visibility. Caps and hats will help keep glasses protected from the rain.
    *Asian size only

    View Details
  • Rain gloves icon image

    Rain gloves

    Waterproof gloves will help keep your hands dry and comfortable in wet conditions. Using with thin, inner gloves allows for versatile layering in changing weather.
    *Asian size only

    View Details
  • Gaiters icon image

    Gaiters

    Gaiters are extremely versatile, keeping rain and trail debris out of your footwear, while also providing some stain protection over the hem of your pants. Pro tip! In the rain, be sure to have your rain pants layered over the gaiters.

    View Details
  • Skirt icon image

    Skirt

    With a rain skirt, you can... sit on wet benches, use it as a quick cover for your bag in sudden rain, or even repurpose it as an apron for morning gardening tasks.

    View Details

Activity-specific models

  • Cycling icon image

    Cycling

    Rainwear is essential to enjoy cycling safely and comfortably on rainy days. These models feature articulated arms and knees that conform to your posture on the bicycle, while the drop tail design covers the waist while leaned forward over the handlebars. Reflective markings and logos are strategically placed to promote visibility and safety while riding around traffic. We also offer cycling-specific gloves and shoe covers to provide additional water protection while riding.

    View Details
  • Riding a motorcycle icon image

    Motorcycling

    The jacket and pants feature articulated arms and knees to fit posture while riding and to keep the hems from slipping up or feeling tight. Reflective markings also promote visibility and safety while riding at night. Use with boot covers for additional water protection.

    View Details
  • Fishing icon image

    Fishing

    These jackets can be worn over a fishing vest or other garment, while through-pockets allow access to those inner layers. Both models come in a shorter hem length to stay clear of the water while standing in a river or stream.
    *Asian size only

    View Details
  • Outdoor working icon image

    Outdoor working

    These models are lightweight yet ready for daily use at work in various industries. This rainwear lineup is designed to maintain mobility and deliver excellent use with industry-specific features.

    View Details
  • Travel & daily use icon image

    Travel & daily use

    Getting drenched in the rain isn't fun in the mountains, and the same holds true when back in town. Make sure you have rainwear to maintain comfort while traveling, at a festival, commuting to work, or while running errands around town.

    View Details
  • wheelchairs icon image

    People who use wheelchairs

    These models are designed to provide fully-functional rain protection for people who use wheelchairs.
    *Asian size only

    View Details

Maintenance for long-lasting use

Regular maintenance is vital to ensure long-lasting use. If dirt and oils from the skin remain on your rainwear, the water repellent properties will deteriorate and those jackets and pants will no longer perform as they once did. Without washing, mold may also form. That is why regular washing to remove dirt and oils is so important in maintaining the performance of your rainwear.

Regular washing removes stains and oils

Image of washing a jacket in the washing machine. A multi-purpose cleaner removes dirt and oil from rainwear.
Sweat, natural oils from the skin, mud and dirt degrade the performance of waterproof breathable materials. By utilizing specialized detergent for rainwear, you can thoroughly remove contaminants while maintaining the original performance of your gear.
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Note
For garments with a water-repellent finish, treat with heat in a dryer to restore the water-repellent performance as much as possible.

Restoring the water repellent finish

The fabric is strongly water-repellent, with many water droplets sitting on it.
Restoring the water repellent finish is important in maintaining the breathability of your rainwear. Water repellent finishes help water bead up and roll off of the jacket. When water repellency diminishes, water will no longer bead up and roll off, instead staying on the garment surface where it will block breathability. Water repellency can often be restored through washing and heat treatment. However, if that is no longer working, use the items below to replenish the water repellent finish.
Montbell's water repellent replenishment products are PFAS-free for eco-friendly usage.

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Rainwear maintenance guide

Rainwear maintenance guide
How to wash and restore water repellency at home!
More info here

Your guide to repair supplies for everything from touch-ups to season-end maintenance

An image of a tear in rainwear repaired with a patch sheet.
Patch holes and tears, and apply lubricant to the zipper to make it slide smoothly. For long-lasting repairs, contact Montbell Repair Service to receive the kind of customer service that only a manufacturer can provide.
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Related information

One Shell for All Weather

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The latest rain shell models have high breathability and excellent stretchability: the 'Torrent Flyer Jacket' and the 'DRYTEC Stretch Rain Pants'.
Read more

Storm Cruiser Jacket

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A high-performance rain shell suitable for situations when you're highly active
Read more

Tempest Jacket

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High-performance rain shell suitable for physically active situations.
Read more

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