Recommend Rain Gear

[Emilie Jester]

We are walking from Leon in May. I've read it can be VERY rainy....would appreciate suggestions on how to stay dry and where in the U.S. to purchase. We have Gortex jackets and rain pants, but that might not be the best? thanks for advice.

 

[Peregrina 2013]

Depending on how breathable and heavy your jacket is, you might already have what you need. If you are looking to buy something with newer technology there are different possibilities. Personally, I love the Marmot Precip rain jacket -there are the Marmot rain pants as well. This is a very light weight jacket and you don't get hot with it because it breathes very well. It's easy to find and the price is reasonable. Sierra Trading Post has great prices, here is the link: http://www.sierratradingpost.com/marmot ... rFamily=32

Last year I got a new rain jacket because my husband - who by the way is a gear geek and researches everything thoroughly, gave it to me for my birthday. It's a RAB Momentum, and was surprised to find it lighter than my Precip. Afer wearing it during several backpacking trips on the mountains I can vouch that it is the very best rain jacket I've had. Pricey, though. Here is a link to Moosejaw.com: http://www.moosejaw.com/moosejaw/shop/p ... 000001_-1_

Without a doubt there are many others, and hopefully you'll get more information. At least with these 2 jackets you can begin researching for what will work for you!

¡Buen Camino!

Mary

 

[newfydog]

Here is the lightest, most breathable and comfortable rainwear on earth:

http://o2rainwear.com/2011/03/original-hooded-jacket/

$32.00!

The catch? Well, it is really weird stuff, made out of breathable waterproof hospital sheets or something. It is easy to tear, and does not compact all that well. It is really comfortable, and does not cling to you when wet. It is the only raingear that doesn't feel wet, and it breathes great.

I find it is not tough enough for biking. My wife still won't use anything else, and usually has a spot or two of duct tape repairs. For hiking, you would want a top big enough to go over your pack, because the straps would do it in (actually the same thing happens to gore-tex under a pack).

It fits like a sack, looks like a Haz-Mat suit, and is wonderful.

 

[Peregrina 2013]

Emilie you do have the choice of finding rain gear that goes over your pack, or simply buy a waterproof cover for your pack. Having a pack cover makes it easier if you need to take the pack off and it will still be protected and so will you.
The product that newydog mentions is breathable, very delicate, it does rip easily (my husband bought this about 2 years ago to try it out), so if you want to replace your rain gear every so often, and the price is right, then this could be a good choice

 

[Emilie Jester]

Thank you three for your replies!!! Really appreciate your input'

 

[jeff001]

As long as it was warm and the wind wasn't blowing hard I found it more comfortable to just get wet. I wore nylon rain pants over a nylon swim suit and a fast dry tee shirt with a rain cover on my pack. Any kind of rain gear - even expensive supposedly breathable stuff - caused me to overheat. Once the rain stopped or I got inside everything dried quickly.

 

[colinPeter]

Hi Emilie,
You have asked a question that will probably generate numerous answers/opinions.
I've never used Gortex Jacket & Pants but walked in 2009 in with Marmot Jacket & Pants (Marmot, probably similar to manoll's, mentioned above). However, I also used a very light (Ultra-Sil) poncho for the really heavy rain (for extra pack protection). The downside is that my Ponchos tended to blow around in high wind and can was difficult to put on in high wind. Also, having no sleeves (I walked with trekking poles) exposed your arms, unless you kept your Jacket on which caused considerable condensation, and you tended to get wet on the inside anyhow, as well as wet.
In 2012 I left the rain pants and poncho at home and took an Altus Rain coat (which covers you and the pack), you can find opinions on these elsewhere on the forum. We had much more rain in 2012 and I found this a better solution, even though the Altus also generates condensation as well.
For 2013 an "experienced" trekker suggested I use Gortex Jacket, pants & pack cover, as this is the "easiest" solution, which I agree with, but only if it keeps you and your gear dry.
From my reading of others opinions it seems most use a Poncho or a Raincoat/Cover, some suggest that even with a with a pack cover, walking for days in the rain (which you may have to do) your pack/gear can get wet. Personally, I also wonder about the ability for the new "thinner" Gortex to deal with constant rain where your pack straps "weigh" on it.
At this stage, I think I will stick with the Altus for later this year.
Buen Camino
Col

 

[Susannafromsweden]

As long as it was warm and the wind wasn't blowing hard I found it more comfortable to just get wet. I wore nylon rain pants over a nylon swim suit and a fast dry tee shirt with a rain cover on my pack. Any kind of rain gear - even expensive supposedly breathable stuff - caused me to overheat. Once the rain stopped or I got inside everything dried quickly.

I agree. It's a lot of job trying to not get wet, and often rather pointless.
I'm a big fan of umbrellas, though.
I've also been thinking about wearing something very light and quick dry, like pants and jacket of pertex. And bikini under that. And then just give up and relax and let it rain.
But this year I'm taking a Marmot precip jacket, because I found one on sale (50% off ) and it had large pit zips etc.
And skirt and sandals. So I don't have to worry about wet shoes.

 

[frasert]

I want to wear a bikini too!!

 

[Susannafromsweden]

 

[WalkingStar]

I keep reading about rain gear in this forum, but honestly, I'm still unclear if what I am bringing is overkill. I am walking May 3 - June 1. I have an ultralite waterproof jacket and ultralite rain pants and was also going to bring a poncho big enough to cover the pack. Since I have the waterproof jacket and pants, would I just need a pack cover? I haven't bought the poncho yet, that's why I am asking.

Does everyone who bring the poncho still bring waterproof pants and jacket?

 

[jeff001]

One thing you can do to help you decide is to go out walking uphill in your rain gear for 2-3 hours, preferably carrying your pack. You might find that the rain gear keeps as much moisture in as it keeps out.

 

[Tia Valeria]

We wear Rohan ponchos (weather cape) and Berghaus or Regatta lightweight breathable trousers. Works for us. Our packs came with attached covers which we use too so we don't plastic wrap any of our clothes in the pack. The poncho goes on right over the pack and ours are the longer length.
We have fleeces for warmth but no jackets. Walking at home with jackets we found was sweaty and in heavier rain the pack straps made a rub point which could let water in.

 

[AJ]

I use an umbrella and pack cover. Most of the time it is good, but not in strong winds. I got sick of carrying a goretex coat for thousands of kilometers and hardly ever wearing it. And when I did wear it I overheated.

 

[BrianForbesColgate]

I have been following these discussions as rain gear is one of the last things I have left to buy. I stumbled across these review sites which might be interesting for some: http://www.outdoorgearlab.com/Rain-Jacket-Reviews/buying-advice
http://www.backpacker.com/september-2011-the-best-breathable-waterproof-rain-jackets/gear/15866
One of the things noted in the first review is that if you don't keep the external waterproofing in good shape, the exterior will soak ... The jacket it will still be waterproof, but the outside will be soaked rather than shedding the water, and that will inhibit breathability. Good tips here on storing carefully to aid reliability. The latter review reported the Mammut Felsturm Half-Zip as the most breathable, which has been a concern oft-expressed here. Of course, the half-zip means you are going to take more time getting it on in a fast developing downpour. All F.Y.I. :arrow:

 

[Tahitidom]

We are walking from Leon in May. I've read it can be VERY rainy....would appreciate suggestions on how to stay dry and where in the U.S. to purchase. We have Gortex jackets and rain pants, but that might not be the best? thanks for advice.

Hi
As I sweat a lot (even when it's cold!) I bought a e-Vent technology jacket : much more better than Gortex and less expensive. I bought it in New Zealand under MACPAC brand (only available in NZ and in Australia). I think that others brands should sell the same technology in others countries.
It's very useful. I'm very satisfied.
Have a nice camino
Dominique

 

[lynnejohn]

I've tried everthing - at first the horrible ponchos that need to be snapped together and blow around in the wind. Those got thrown out. Then we went with rain jacket and rain pants (marmot precip). Too hot, too complicated to get on and off, too heavy to carry, plus I always wear shorts and don't care if my legs get wet. This time we have Ferrino Treckers. We've tried them on with our packs and I think this is the one. I think it's a good find.... recommended and reviewed here by LiseT. (Thank you!) and comments by other members:
http://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/threads/ferrino-trekker-rain-coat.15889/

We'll find out this spring if they were a good choice. Web site:
http://www.ferrino.it/en/catalog/rainwear/78122-poncho-trekker-ripstop-l-xl

(I ordered from Amazon.com for $58.84)

 

[Rebekah Scott]

Just back from the Camino Ingles, where hurricane-force winds and flash-flooding turned our walking retreat into a monsoon survival session. Among us were many of the items mentioned in the posts above -- some really great gear, boots, ponchos, jackets, and rain pants.
The Rab, Marmot, and Berghaus things seemed to perform best. My standby Timberlands, Altus, and Columbia Omnis failed, as did Kathy´s Outdoor Research.

We all got wet, no matter what we wore.
Your mileage may vary.

 

[HermanTheGerman]

Depending on how breathable and heavy your jacket is, you might already have what you need. If you are looking to buy something with newer technology there are different possibilities. Personally, I love the Marmot Precip rain jacket -there are the Marmot rain pants as well. This is a very light weight jacket and you don't get hot with it because it breathes very well. It's easy to find and the price is reasonable. Sierra Trading Post has great prices, here is the link: http://www.sierratradingpost.com/marmot ... rFamily=32

Last year I got a new rain jacket because my husband - who by the way is a gear geek and researches everything thoroughly, gave it to me for my birthday. It's a RAB Momentum, and was surprised to find it lighter than my Precip. Afer wearing it during several backpacking trips on the mountains I can vouch that it is the very best rain jacket I've had. Pricey, though. Here is a link to Moosejaw.com: http://www.moosejaw.com/moosejaw/shop/p ... 000001_-1_

Without a doubt there are many others, and hopefully you'll get more information. At least with these 2 jackets you can begin researching for what will work for you!

¡Buen Camino!

Mary

I will never enter Galicia again with just a Marmot Precip jacket for defence against the rain. Within a short amount of time I was drenched; sodden, completely through. I would recommend washing it new and giving it an overhaul before even starting; waterproofing solution that is then heat activated. Use this with Altus poncho ans you have your bases covered.

 

[FatmaG]

I agree with you, Herman!
I bought a Marmot Precip some time ago - walking the Piemont route. (plenty of rain in Ariège/France)
Fortunately, I had a Poncho as well,because this jacket is simply not waterproof.
Since then, I bought a North Face jacket, heavier but waterproof.
And, by the way, I always take plenty of rain gear with me: poncho (= tent), jacket, rain cover (for backpack), gaiters.
And - dependent on the weather - I can put one or more things to keep dry.

 

[HermanTheGerman]

I agree with you Fatma! The rain pants and gators will be coming along too! I found the Boulder childrens' gators from Deuter (assuming this as they're only available in one really small size) are low enough not to cause overheating problems over the legs from not letting the sweat out, and also light enough not to notice. They (when stretched to the limit) clip over the 2nd lace of a size EU45 boot and protect the mesh under the laces from torrential rain too. I did manage to wear the rubber strap out that goes under the boot completely by the time I got to Santiago last time, but at €19.00 they're cheap enough to buy again for the next Camino.

I quickly learned the benefits of leather GTX mids over mesh GTX mids. I've absolutely saturated the leather (yes I know the breathability is compromised)with saddle fat and then topped it off with 3 rounds of Blue spray. When other people's feet were getting totally drenched, mine were only damp in comparison. Blisters??? What are they?? ;-)

 

[tyrrek]

You're not guaranteed too much rain in May, even in Galicia. In 2011 the worst I walked in was that light, refreshing, misty rain. There was torrential rain at night though. As long as it‘s warm getting a bit wet isn't so bad especially if you're sweaty anyway. When it‘s cold it‘s another story if you stop and cool down too quickly. Buen camino!

 

[Kiwi-family]

Just back from the Camino Ingles, where hurricane-force winds and flash-flooding turned our walking retreat into a monsoon survival session. Among us were many of the items mentioned in the posts above -- some really great gear, boots, ponchos, jackets, and rain pants.
The Rab, Marmot, and Berghaus things seemed to perform best. My standby Timberlands, Altus, and Columbia Omnis failed, as did Kathy´s Outdoor Research.

We all got wet, no matter what we wore.
Your mileage may vary.

Too bad there wasn't a Packa in the mix, then this would have been the perfect post on wet weather gear to date - it's still the most comprehensive!

 

[andy.d]

Just to echo Rebekah - it was appalling wet and windy (chuvia fatal?). The ponchos were definitely less effective than the jackets and waterproof over trousers (a mixture of Rab, Berghaus and Marmot). Wetness in these mainly seemed to be to do with sweat and water being pulled in where the rucksack straps were. The ponchos had an added disadvantage in the very strong winds in that those wearing them were more likely to be blown over (didn't happen, but nearly did into water full of pig slurry).

It was so wet that I can't think of any gear that would have kept you completely dry while walking.

 

[Tia Valeria]

Too bad there wasn't a Packa in the mix, then this would have been the perfect post on wet weather gear to date - it's still the most comprehensive!

Did anyone have any Rohan waterproofs? Otherwise as Rachael says it's a fairly comprehensive list.

Glad you all made it safely.

 

[andy.d]

Did anyone have any Rohan waterproofs? Otherwise as Rachael says it's a fairly comprehensive list.

Glad you all made it safely.

Sorry, no. It was quite the most exceptionally heavy rain and wind any of us have walked in for any sustained period. If your Rohan's stand up to the normal stuff you get in Britain and Galicia, I wouldn't worry about it too much.

Andy

 

[Tia Valeria]

Thanks Andy, it was more interest than worry. Our Rohan ponchos stood up well to the rain we had near Fonsagrada. The first time I had seen truly horizontal rain and a wind to go with it. We stood in a tunnel under the road to get our w-trousers on. We had a similar day this year near Santillana when we did have trousers too (Berghaus) and stayed dry underneath, only our boots needed drying out.

 

[andy.d]

Rebekah has posted a picture of me putting my waterproof trousers on here:

http://www.moratinoslife.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/a-blast.html

 

[Tia Valeria]

or should that be

 

[titasanz]

We are walking from Leon in May. I've read it can be VERY rainy....would appreciate suggestions on how to stay dry and where in the U.S. to purchase. We have Gortex jackets and rain pants, but that might not be the best? thanks for advice.

I wore a The North Face set , pants and jacket, waterproof but very light that I wore on top of everything else if there was rain, it even works wonders as windbreaker. recommended 1000%