11 Waterproof Hiking Essentials at Amazon and REI
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Don’t let the rain ruin your trek with the help of reliable hiking boots, backpacks, jackets, and more, up to 66 percent off.
Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten
With spring nearly in full bloom, now is the perfect time to take out your trail map and start planning out your hiking schedule for the coming months. However, seeing as we’re also smack-dab in the middle of rainy season, you’ll need to be slightly more prepared on the gear front to take on the mountains without getting soaked to the bone.
Whether you’re building your hiking gear collection from scratch or are merely looking for a few replacement pieces to shield you from muddy puddles and April showers, we’ve rounded up the 11 best waterproof essentials you’ll need to comfortably commune with nature. With sturdy boots, packable jackets, and top layers in tow, you can trust that this spring is about to be your best hiking season to date.
Amazon
First and foremost, you should always be prepared with a waterproof hiking pack before hitting the trails during the spring so you can keep your spare clothing and snacks dry and ready to go at a moment’s notice. This best-selling bag from Amazon is currently on sale for 21 percent off and is equipped with several spacious pockets alongside a handy rain cover that provides an additional layer of protection from the elements. And while it offers ample space for your belongings, this hiking bag is made without an interior frame so you’re guaranteed the utmost comfort on your journey.
Amazon
In the unfortunate event that you’ve planned a hiking vacation only to be met with the worst possible weather conditions, fear not, because this two-piece rain suit from Frogg Toggs is here to save the day — and it’s even a best-seller at Amazon. Complete with a breathable, intentionally oversized rain jacket and pants, this pairing is great for layering over your clothing for added protection and warmth, and when it’s not in use, the lightweight material easily folds up into your bag while taking up minimal space. Made of practically impenetrable bi-laminate, this suit’s clever hooded jacket has a snap-down storm flap that keeps rain out, plus a corded tie you can tighten when it really starts pouring. Just don’t wait too long to buy, because right now, the set is on sale for a staggering 60 percent off.
REI
Naturally, you can’t forget your raincoat when packing your bag for a weekend of hiking, and at 50 percent off at REI right now, this breathable jacket from Adidas is an excellent choice. A comfortable and forgiving construction feels lightweight while you’re working up a sweat, but the exterior is made with high-quality rain-proof material to keep you truly dry, even in the worst conditions. Elasticized cuffs keep cold air and water droplets off of your skin, as does the adjustable hood. On top of it all, this slim-fitting coat even manages to be flattering, despite the generally frumpy nature of raincoats.
REI
Now on sale for a massive 50 percent off discount in black, these quick-drying pants with not one but two layers of waterproof Goretex material are sure to become one of the most reached-for pairs of pants in your closet this spring — especially considering sizes range from XS to 3X so you’ll surely be able to find your ideal fit. Lightweight and breathable, these waterproof, windproof pants have been created with poor weather in mind, acting as a high-quality barrier against the elements while taking up minimal space in your bag while packing. An elastic waistband provides the comfort that all hiking pants should deliver, while zippers at the ankles make them easy to slide on and off over your boots if you’re layering them over a pair of shorts and the weather clears.
Amazon
Investing in a good pair of waterproof hiking boots is the easiest way to ensure that you’re prepared for your hike — no matter how slippery the terrain may be. Just look at this stylish and functional pair from Columbia which are currently on sale for a whopping 40 percent off, and have even earned more than 18,600 five-star ratings from happy customers at Amazon. A leather and textile exterior that’s complete with rubber soles works to keep your feet warm and dry (even when trekking through mud), and they’re even designed with impressive grip so you don’t have to worry about taking a tumble in the rain.
Amazon
If you’re shopping for men’s hiking boots, look no further than this waterproof pair from Nortiv 8 which has garnered an impressive 9,500-plus five-star ratings at Amazon and is currently on sale for a mere $44 to help you prepare for your adventures on a budget. A rubber sole and toe cap means you can walk through puddles without feeling the soak in your socks; plus, shock-absorbing insoles make comfort a priority while braving unpredictable terrain, while non-slip soles are key for making it down the mountain safely. Top it all off with well-padded heels, and you have well-made hiking boots that are comfy straight out of the box.
Amazon
You may already be set up with a waterproof backpack to begin with, but whether you do or not, it never hurts to have an additional layer of protection against the rain in the form of this best-selling bag cover from Joy Walker. Simply clip the shell onto your backpack with the accompanying buckles, and both your bag and the belongings inside will be fully waterproofed against the storm. Elastic around the edge over the cover effectively keeps stray drops from making their way inside, and adjustable straps make it suitable for a wide range of backpacks. Best of all, it’s just $13 at Amazon and even comes in so many pretty colors.
REI
Regardless of the weather, your hiking pants should be made with enough flexibility to allow a full range of movement without limiting your stride, and these mid-rise pants from Patagonia do just that — all while being water-repellent and ideal for spring. The lightweight material will keep you just warm enough to ward off seasonal chill without causing you to overheat, plus, they even feature two specifically designed “hand warmer” pockets for when the rain and cold get the best of you. For 30 percent off at REI, these pants are a steal heading into the season.
Amazon
Of course, you’ll need a water-wicking top to pair with your new hiking pants, and at a stunning discount of 66 percent off, this crewneck, quick-drying top from Hanes is a no-brainer. Not only is the shirt constructed with flat seams to avoid chafing and irritation on the trails, but the material also boasts UPF 40+ to protect your skin from harsh rays if the rain decides to clear. Odor-controlling, moisture-wicking fabric is basically made for poor-weather adventures, and the loose fit eliminates the sensation of being restricted by your clothing.
REI
Packing the correct layers for the fluctuating spring temperatures might be a guessing game, so you’ll always be happy to have this lightweight hoodie at your fingertips to throw on under a rain jacket when the clouds move in. Now discounted by 25 percent off at REI, this versatile sweatshirt is ultra-soft, sweat-wicking, and all around the perfect hiking shirt for sweaty adventures and rainy days alike. A blend of merino wool and Tencel offer a sublime balance between warmth and cooling, and the odor-resistant nature of the material is tailored to even the most perspiration-prone hikers.
REI
Inclement weather doesn’t necessarily mean chilly temperatures, so if you’re looking for a short-sleeved hiking shirt for drizzly days, don’t miss out on this feather-light new arrival from Arc’teryx which is on sale for 20 percent off at REI. Hit the mountain for a hike or trail run in this UPF 50+ shirt that not only offers quick-drying technology but also boasts an anti-odor finish so you can still smell fresh at the end of a long day of activities. Plus, recycled fabric will feel soft and gentle against the skin from the first wear, even if you find yourself caught in a rainstorm.
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