Hey guys! Are you searching for a reliable and waterproof jacket that can withstand any weather condition? Well, look no further! Today, we're diving deep into the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket, a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. We'll explore its features, performance, pros, and cons to help you decide if this jacket is the perfect fit for your adventures. So, let's get started!

What is the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket?

The Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket is a high-performance waterproof jacket designed for outdoor activities. It utilizes Columbia's OutDry Extreme technology, a unique waterproof and breathable membrane that's applied to the outer layer of the jacket. This construction prevents water from penetrating the fabric while allowing moisture vapor to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable in wet conditions. Unlike traditional waterproof jackets with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish that can wear off over time, the OutDry Extreme membrane is the first line of defense against the elements, ensuring long-lasting waterproof protection.

The OutDry Extreme technology truly sets this jacket apart. Traditional waterproof jackets often use a DWR coating, which is a chemical treatment applied to the outer fabric. This coating repels water initially, but it wears off with use and washing, diminishing the jacket's waterproof capabilities. The OutDry Extreme membrane, on the other hand, is a physical barrier bonded directly to the outer layer. This means that the waterproof protection is inherent to the fabric itself and won't wash away or degrade over time. This makes the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket a more durable and reliable option for those who frequently encounter wet weather.

The jacket is also designed with several features to enhance its performance and comfort. It includes an adjustable hood, cuffs, and hem, allowing you to customize the fit and seal out the elements. The jacket also has multiple pockets for storing your essentials, including zippered hand pockets and an internal security pocket. These pockets are strategically placed and designed to be easily accessible, even when wearing gloves. The articulated elbows provide a full range of motion, making the jacket comfortable for activities like hiking, climbing, and backpacking. And, the lightweight and packable design make it easy to carry the jacket with you on any adventure. You can easily stash it in your backpack when the weather is clear and quickly pull it out when the rain starts.

Key Features of the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket

The Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket is packed with features designed to enhance its performance and functionality. Let's take a closer look at some of the key features that make this jacket stand out:

• OutDry Extreme Technology: As we've discussed, this is the core of the jacket's waterproof and breathable performance. The membrane blocks water from entering while allowing moisture vapor to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable.
• Fully Seam-Sealed: All seams are sealed to prevent water from seeping through the stitching, ensuring complete waterproof protection. This is a crucial detail for any high-quality waterproof jacket, as even the smallest gaps in the seams can compromise its ability to keep you dry.
• Adjustable Hood: The adjustable hood provides customizable coverage and protection from the elements. You can cinch it down for a snug fit in windy conditions or loosen it up for better visibility. A well-designed hood is essential for keeping your head and face dry in heavy rain.
• Adjustable Cuffs and Hem: These adjustments allow you to seal out the elements and customize the fit of the jacket. Tightening the cuffs and hem prevents drafts and water from entering, while loosening them allows for better ventilation. This adjustability is key to comfort in varying weather conditions.
• Zippered Hand Pockets: The zippered hand pockets provide secure storage for your essentials, such as your phone, wallet, or keys. The zippers keep your belongings safe and dry, and the pockets are typically lined with a soft material for added comfort.
• Internal Security Pocket: This pocket offers a safe place to store valuable items, such as your passport or credit cards. The internal placement makes it less accessible to potential thieves, providing extra peace of mind.
• Articulated Elbows: The articulated elbows allow for a full range of motion, making the jacket comfortable for a variety of activities. This design feature prevents the jacket from feeling restrictive when you're bending or reaching, which is especially important for activities like hiking or climbing.
• Lightweight and Packable: The jacket is lightweight and can be easily packed down, making it convenient to carry with you on your adventures. This is a significant advantage for travelers or backpackers who need to minimize weight and bulk. The jacket often comes with its own stuff sack or can be packed into one of its pockets.

These features combine to make the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket a versatile and reliable choice for anyone who needs waterproof protection in a variety of conditions.

Performance and Waterproofing

Let's talk about the most important aspect of a waterproof jacket: its performance in wet conditions. The Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket truly shines in this area, thanks to its OutDry Extreme technology. Guys, this isn't your average waterproof jacket – it's built to withstand serious downpours and keep you dry and comfortable.

The OutDry Extreme membrane is the real game-changer here. Unlike traditional waterproof jackets that rely on a DWR coating, the OutDry Extreme membrane is directly bonded to the outer layer of the jacket. This creates an impenetrable barrier against water, preventing it from soaking into the fabric. You can literally watch the rain bead up and roll off the jacket, leaving you feeling dry and protected. This direct bonding also means that the waterproof performance won't diminish over time, even with frequent use and washing. The DWR coatings on other jackets eventually wear off, requiring you to reapply them or risk getting wet. But with the OutDry Extreme technology, you don't have to worry about that.

The fully seam-sealed construction further enhances the jacket's waterproofing capabilities. Seams are often the weakest points in a waterproof garment, as water can seep through the tiny holes created by the stitching. By sealing all the seams, Columbia ensures that no water can penetrate the jacket, providing complete protection from the elements. This attention to detail is what sets high-quality waterproof jackets apart from cheaper alternatives.

In real-world testing, the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket has consistently performed exceptionally well. Reviewers and users have praised its ability to keep them dry in heavy rain, snow, and even sleet. The jacket's breathability also plays a crucial role in its performance. While it keeps water out, it also allows moisture vapor (sweat) to escape, preventing you from overheating and feeling clammy. This is especially important during strenuous activities like hiking or running, where you're likely to sweat.

However, it's worth noting that the jacket's breathability may not be as high as some other high-end waterproof jackets, particularly those with advanced membrane technologies like Gore-Tex. If you're planning on engaging in very high-intensity activities in warm weather, you might find that the jacket doesn't breathe quite as well as you'd like. But for most everyday activities and moderate outdoor pursuits, the breathability is more than adequate.

Overall, the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket delivers outstanding waterproof performance, making it a reliable choice for anyone who needs protection from the rain and snow. Its innovative technology and thoughtful design make it a standout in the world of waterproof outerwear.

Pros and Cons

Okay, let's break down the pros and cons of the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket to give you a clear picture of its strengths and weaknesses:

Pros:

• Excellent Waterproofing: The OutDry Extreme technology provides exceptional waterproof protection that won't diminish over time. This is the jacket's biggest selling point, and it truly delivers on its promise to keep you dry in wet conditions.
• Durable Construction: The jacket is made from high-quality materials and is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The robust construction ensures that the jacket will last for many years, even with frequent use.
• Adjustable Fit: The adjustable hood, cuffs, and hem allow you to customize the fit and seal out the elements. This adjustability is crucial for comfort and performance in varying weather conditions.
• Lightweight and Packable: The jacket is lightweight and can be easily packed down, making it convenient to carry with you. This is a significant advantage for travelers and backpackers who need to save space and weight.
• Multiple Pockets: The zippered hand pockets and internal security pocket provide ample storage for your essentials. The pockets are well-placed and designed for easy access, even when wearing gloves.
• Relatively Affordable: Compared to other high-end waterproof jackets, the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket is relatively affordable. This makes it a great value for the money, especially considering its performance and durability.

Cons:

• Breathability: While the jacket is breathable, it may not be as breathable as some other high-end waterproof jackets, particularly in warm weather or during high-intensity activities. This is a common trade-off with waterproof jackets, as maximizing waterproofness often comes at the expense of breathability.
• Stiffness: Some users have noted that the jacket can feel a bit stiff, especially when new. This is due to the OutDry Extreme membrane, which can be less flexible than traditional waterproof fabrics. However, the stiffness typically diminishes with use and washing.
• Appearance: The shiny, almost plastic-like appearance of the OutDry Extreme membrane may not appeal to everyone. Some people prefer the look of traditional waterproof fabrics with a matte finish. However, the appearance is a matter of personal preference and doesn't affect the jacket's performance.
• Limited Insulation: The jacket is not insulated, so you'll need to layer it with other garments in cold weather. This isn't necessarily a con, as it allows you to customize your warmth based on the conditions. But it's important to be aware that you'll need to wear additional layers in cold weather.

Overall, the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket has more pros than cons, making it a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable waterproof jacket. Its exceptional waterproofing, durability, and adjustable fit make it a standout performer, while its affordability makes it an excellent value for the money.

Who is the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket For?

So, who is this jacket perfect for? Let's break it down. The Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket is an excellent choice for:

• Hikers and Backpackers: If you enjoy spending time outdoors, hiking or backpacking, this jacket will keep you dry and comfortable in unpredictable weather. Its lightweight and packable design makes it easy to carry in your backpack, and its durable construction can withstand the rigors of the trail.
• Travelers: The jacket's waterproof performance and packability make it a great travel companion. Whether you're exploring a rainy city or venturing into the mountains, this jacket will keep you dry and protected.
• Commuters: If you commute by bike or public transport, this jacket will keep you dry on your way to work or school. Its adjustable fit and multiple pockets make it practical for everyday use.
• Outdoor Enthusiasts: Anyone who enjoys outdoor activities, such as camping, fishing, or kayaking, will appreciate the jacket's waterproof performance and durability. It's a versatile jacket that can handle a wide range of outdoor pursuits.
• People Living in Rainy Climates: If you live in an area with frequent rainfall, this jacket is a must-have. Its exceptional waterproof protection will keep you dry and comfortable, even in the heaviest downpours.

However, if you're primarily engaging in very high-intensity activities in warm weather, you might want to consider a jacket with better breathability. And, if you're looking for a jacket with built-in insulation, you'll need to layer this jacket with other garments.

Alternatives to the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket

If the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket doesn't quite meet your needs, there are several other excellent waterproof jackets on the market to consider. Here are a few alternatives:

• Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket: This is a high-end waterproof jacket known for its exceptional breathability and durability. It uses Gore-Tex Pro fabric, which provides superior waterproof and breathable performance. However, it's also significantly more expensive than the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket.
• Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket: This is a popular and affordable waterproof jacket that offers excellent performance for the price. It uses Patagonia's H2No Performance Standard shell fabric, which is waterproof and breathable. It's a good option if you're looking for a balance between performance and price.
• Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket: This is another affordable waterproof jacket that's made from recycled materials. It uses Marmot's NanoPro Eco fabric, which is waterproof and breathable. It's a great choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
• REI Co-op XeroDry GTX Jacket: This is a versatile waterproof jacket that uses Gore-Tex fabric. It offers excellent waterproof and breathable performance and is a good option for a variety of outdoor activities.

When choosing a waterproof jacket, consider your specific needs and budget. Think about the types of activities you'll be using the jacket for, the weather conditions you'll be encountering, and the features that are most important to you. Comparing different models and reading reviews can help you make the best decision.

Final Verdict: Is the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket Worth It?

So, after all this, is the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket worth it? In my opinion, absolutely! If you're looking for a reliable, waterproof jacket that can withstand serious downpours without breaking the bank, this is an excellent choice.

The OutDry Extreme technology truly sets this jacket apart, providing exceptional waterproof protection that won't diminish over time. Its durable construction, adjustable fit, and multiple pockets make it a practical choice for a wide range of activities. While its breathability may not be the absolute best on the market, it's more than adequate for most everyday use and moderate outdoor pursuits.

The few drawbacks, such as the stiffness of the fabric and the shiny appearance, are minor compared to the jacket's overall performance and value. If you prioritize waterproofness and durability, the Columbia OutDry EX Reign Jacket is a winner.

So, if you're ready to stay dry and comfortable on your next adventure, give this jacket a serious look. You won't be disappointed!