Women Outdoor Research Womens Helium Rain Pants

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A true just-in-case shell for changeable skies, the Helium Rain Pants are a fast, featherweight solution when the clouds roll in.

Outdoor Research says: 

The Helium Rain Pants deliver lightweight, waterproof, and ultra-packable flash storm protection for peace of mind when traveling in unpredictable weather conditions.

Crafted with bluesign® approved Pertex® Shield fabric, the Helium Rain Pants are waterproof, windproof, and breathable, ensuring comfort and dryness in soggy conditions. The gusseted crotch provides increased range of motion, and ankle zippers make for quick changes over boots. The back pocket doubles as a stuff sack, and a carabiner loop with key clip makes sure you have a ride home at the end of your day. The elastic waistband with drawcord and gripper tape ensures a snug, no-slip fit, and the reflective logo ensures visibility in low-light conditions. With a standard fit that accommodates layering, these the Helium Rain Pants are a versatile ally against unpredictable weather.

Purpose-built to pack light, move fast, and stay dry in unpredictable conditions, the lightweight, waterproof Helium Rain Pants are an essential addition to any backcountry kit.

Our Verdict

At just 183g (UK 12), these are easily some of the lightest waterproof trousers I’ve carried. The 30D Pertex Shield fabric offers decent breathability for a 2.5-layer, and I’ve found it more comfortable than most in this weight class. The cut is streamlined, which improves packability and eliminates excess flap, but it can feel snug through the thighs—if you’re between sizes or prefer a bit more room for layering, consider going up a size.

The ankle zip is short but functional, making slipping them on over trail shoes manageable. That said, I wouldn’t use them for off-trail bushwacking—despite the “diamond fuse” fabric, they’re still delicate.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• Ankle Zippers
• Back Pocket Doubles As Stuff Sack
• Carabiner Loop with Key Clip
• Elastic Cuffs with Gripper Tape and Lace Loop
• Elastic Waist Band with Drawcord and Gripper Tape
• Gusseted Crotch
• Reflective Logo
• Breathable
• Durable
• Fully Seam Taped
• Lightweight
• Waterproof
• Windproof

Specifications

• XSmall (UK 08) weighs: 168g
• Small (UK 10) weighs: 173g
• Medium (UK 12) weighs: 183g
• Large (UK 14) weighs: 189g
• Hydrostatic Head: 20000mm
• Breathability: MVTR 20000g/m2/24 hrs

Material & Construction

• bluesign® approved Pertex® Shield Diamond Fuse 2.5L
• bluesign® approved 100% Nylon, 30D Ripstop

Help & advice:

• Recycled Content in Outdoor Gear
• The Bluesign System
• Choosing a Shell Jacket
• MVTR and Breathability Explained
• What is Hydrostatic Head?
• What is Fabric Denier?
• Time-Saver Guide to Choosing a Waterproof Jacket