The REI Campwell Rain Jacket is a reproduction of a vintage raincoat that’s not suitable for hiking or backpacking. While it repels rain, it’s a casual piece of clothing that’s good for closer-to-home use or commuting. It’s also heavy as all get out (1 lb 7.7 oz) and not something you’d want to carry in a backpack all the time, just in case it rains. The sizing is also quite large, enough that you might want to size down a full size, although it layers over a sports coat pretty well if you have a job that requires one.

• Weight:  1 lb 7.7 oz (Men’s Large)
• Gender: Men’s and Women’s
• Sizing: Runs large. Consider sizing down.
• Waterproofing: 2-layer waterproof/breathable laminate
• Lining: Tafetta nylon
• Pockets: 4
• Hood: One-way adjustable

The REI Campwell Rain Jacket is a two-layer waterproof/breathable rain jacket with a warm tafetta nylon lining, making it comfortable to wear in cooler weather. However, it runs very large, so you might consider sizing down. REI sent me a men’s size large to try, and I could have sworn it was an XL, until I checked, because I was literally swimming inside.

The adjustable hood has a stiffened front brim.

The waterproof shell keeps water and freezing rain out during commutes, dog walks, and short hikes. The DWR finish helps rain bead up and roll off at first, though it will wear down over time and need occasional reapplication. However, the jacket is not seam-taped, so I wouldn’t recommend long and wet forays.

Breathability is lackluster. Without pit zips or advanced venting, the jacket feels warm and clammy during faster-paced activity. For casual walking or standing around in the rain, it is comfortable enough. The external fabric has a soft, quiet feel compared to many crinkly rain shells, which makes it nice for daily wear.

The adjustable hood provides decent coverage and moves well with your head, and its stiff brim keeps you dry in heavy downpours. Velcro cuffs and elastic hem adjustments help seal out wind and rain. The overall look is clean and understated, making it easy to wear around town without looking overly technical. The jacket’s standout features are its huge front four pockets, each with a top flap over another pocket with a side-zippered opening.

The Campwelll has four huge front pockets

Bottom Line

The REI Co-op Campwell Rain Jacket is a dependable, no-frills rain jacket for everyday life and occasional outdoor use. If you need a lightweight jacket for commuting or casual adventures in wet weather, it is a solid pick. If you plan to hike hard or spend long days in heavy rain, a more technical rain jacket would be a better fit.

Disclosure: REI donated a jacket for review.