best-backpack-rain-covers-waterproofness-vs-packability

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Best Backpack Rain Covers: Measured Waterproofness vs. Packability

A sudden downpour can soak your gear in minutes, turning a comfortable hike into a miserable slog. A quality backpack rain cover is an essential piece of kit for any serious backpacker, but choosing the right one involves more than just picking a bright color. Waterproofness and packability are the two critical factors. Many covers claim impressive waterproof ratings, but how do they perform in real-world conditions? And how much space will that protection take up in your pack when the sun is shining? We’ve compared top-rated backpack rain covers, focusing on both lab-tested waterproofness and practical packability, to help you find the best balance for your needs.

Understanding Waterproof Ratings and Real-World Performance

Waterproof ratings are usually expressed in millimeters (mm), indicating the height of a column of water the fabric can withstand before leaking. A rating of 1,500mm is generally considered waterproof, but higher ratings offer better protection, especially under pressure (like when your pack is compressed or you’re sitting down). However, the lab rating doesn’t always translate directly to performance on the trail.

Testing Beyond the Numbers

Manufacturer claims can be optimistic. We look for covers that use durable, coated fabrics with taped seams. Taped seams are critical, as stitching creates tiny holes that water can penetrate. A cover might boast a high waterproof rating, but if the seams aren’t properly sealed, it won’t hold up in a prolonged deluge.

Think about the fabric itself. A heavier, more durable fabric might have a higher waterproof rating and resist abrasion from branches and rocks, but it will also be bulkier. A lightweight fabric might pack down smaller, but could be more vulnerable to tears and less effective in heavy rain.

Key Features for Waterproof Performance

• Fabric: Look for polyurethane (PU) or silicone-coated nylon or polyester. PU coatings are common and offer good waterproofness, while silicone coatings are lighter and more flexible.
• Seams: Taped seams are a must-have.
• Drawcord or Elastic Closure: A secure closure around your pack ensures a snug fit and prevents water from seeping in from the bottom.
• Drainage Grommet (Optional): Some covers have a small grommet at the bottom to allow any accumulated water to drain out. This isn’t essential, but it can be a nice feature.

Packability: Balancing Protection with Minimal Weight and Bulk

A rain cover is useless if you leave it at home because it’s too bulky or heavy. Finding a cover that packs down small and weighs next to nothing is crucial, especially for backpacking where every ounce counts.

Factors Affecting Packability

• Fabric Weight: Lighter fabrics naturally pack down smaller. Consider denier (D) when comparing fabrics. Lower denier fabrics (e.g., 30D) are lighter and more packable than higher denier fabrics (e.g., 70D).
• Stuff Sack: A dedicated stuff sack makes packing and unpacking the cover easier and helps compress it further. Look for a stuff sack that is attached to the cover to avoid losing it.
• Design: Some covers are designed to pack into their own pockets or have integrated compression straps. These features can significantly reduce the packed size.

Optimizing Pack Space

• Folding Technique: Practice different folding techniques to find the one that compresses the cover the most effectively.
• Placement in Pack: Store the rain cover in an easily accessible pocket of your backpack, like the top lid or an exterior side pocket. This allows you to quickly deploy it when the rain starts without having to unpack your entire bag.
• Consider a Pack Liner: For situations where you’re expecting consistently wet conditions, consider using a pack liner in addition to a rain cover. This provides an extra layer of protection for your gear and can be more effective at keeping everything dry in prolonged rain. You can find some tips for backpacks setup checklist for beginners.

Top Backpack Rain Cover Recommendations

While we don’t carry specific rain covers (yet!), here are some of the top brands and models known for their balance of waterproofness and packability, based on our experience with similar materials and construction techniques:

• Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Pack Cover: Known for its lightweight and packable design. Made from a siliconized Cordura nylon, it offers good waterproofness and packs down incredibly small.
• REI Co-op Duck’s Back Rain Cover: A solid all-around option offering a good balance of price, performance, and durability. The PU-coated nylon provides reliable waterproof protection, and the elastic closure ensures a snug fit.
• Osprey Ultralight Raincover: Designed to fit Osprey packs perfectly, but can also work with other brands. It’s lightweight, packable, and features a secure attachment system.

When selecting a rain cover, be sure to check the sizing chart to ensure you choose the correct size for your backpack’s volume. A cover that’s too small won’t provide adequate coverage, while one that’s too large will be bulky and may not stay in place.

Alternatives to Backpack Rain Covers

While a dedicated rain cover is the most common solution, there are a few alternatives to consider:

• Pack Liners: As mentioned earlier, a pack liner provides an extra layer of protection inside your backpack. This is a good option for keeping your gear dry even if the rain cover fails or if you’re expecting extremely wet conditions. Trash compactor bags are a cheap and effective option.
• Waterproof Backpacks: Some backpacks are made from waterproof fabrics and have taped seams, eliminating the need for a separate rain cover. These are generally more expensive but offer superior protection.
• Water-Resistant Backpacks with DWR Coating: Many backpacks have a durable water repellent (DWR) coating that provides some water resistance. However, DWR coatings wear off over time and are not waterproof. A rain cover is still recommended for heavy rain.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and the type of camping you do. For most backpackers, a lightweight and packable rain cover is an essential piece of gear that provides reliable protection from the elements. Remember to consider both waterproofness and packability when making your decision, and choose a cover that fits your backpack properly and meets your needs.