The 6 Best Lightweight Jackets for Spring
Barely-there shells for all kinds of conditions
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Rain is a lame excuse to cut a run short. These six mighty shells are a lightweight insurance policy designed to keep you on the trails no matter the weather emergency.
Outdoor Research Helium II ($159)
OR’s designers trimmed the fat from this waterproof shell by using moderately breathable 2.5-layer Pertex nylon and retaining a bare minimum of features (chest pocket, drawstring toggles). The result packs down to the size of a Clif Bar. 6.4 oz.
Salomon Fast Wing Hoodie ($100)
This is the lightest, most packable shell here. It won’t ensure you stay dry in a deluge, but it’ll keep you hammering, thanks to super-breathable, ultrathin nylon and four-inch pit vents. 3.2 oz.
The North Face BTN ($130)
Crafted as a go-to training layer, the BTN is cut from quick-drying polyester that lets you sweat without clamming up. There’s no exterior coating or laminate, so we wouldn’t take it on an alpine climb, but as an everyday running shell it excels. 6.7 oz.
Dynafit Trail DST ($169)
DST stands for Durastretch, a four-way soft-shell fabric that offers superior range of motion. Bonus: perforated sections in the exterior and on the upper back and torso dump heat during high-intensity outings. 7.2 oz.
Helly Hansen Odin Minimalist ($220)
The Odin Minimalist is among the lightest, most breathable waterproof shells we’ve tested. The thin laminated nylon is surprisingly durable and packs easily into its own chest pocket. 5.6 oz.
Patagonia Storm Racer ($279)
Don’t be fooled by the hard-shell looks—the Storm Racer was crafted for mobility. Thanks to stretchy nylon, it moves with you. It was designed for alpine running, but a DWR coating beads moisture as well as a rain jacket. Bummer: it’s the heaviest shell here. 9.6 oz.
