The Showers Pass Cloudburst Hoodie is a three-layer waterproof/breathable rain jacket optimized for cyclists or trail runners with many features that will appeal to hikers and backpackers. It has an adjustable hood and hipbelt compatible torso vents lined with mesh that can be opened for added ventilation or used as pockets. The exterior has a soft velvety hand that sheds rain easily, quietly, and is comfortable to wear. The fit is “athletic,” so size up if you want to wear it over mid-layer insulation.

• Construction: 3L waterproof/breathable w/eliteAir membrane
• Gender: Men’s – Women’s available
• Waterproofing: 15,000 mm
• Breathability (MVTR): 40,000 gsm / 24hr
• Seam-taped: Yes
• Pockets: 5
• Fit: Athletic (size up if you plan to layer)
• Packable: Yes, rear zippered pocket
• Weight: 11.9 oz in a men’s L

There are relatively few waterproof/breathable rain jackets designed for hiking and backpacking, despite hiking being the most popular form of outdoor recreation in the United States. Most are designed for skiers, climbers, hunters, or trail runners, which is why, as a hiker, you often have to compromise on hood design, face coverage, breathability, ventilation, weight, or other features when purchasing one. While the Cloudburst Hoodie is designed for cycling, I was interested to see whether it could be adapted for hiking and backpacking, given its high breathability rating and functional pocket layout.

The size of the face opening is adjustable with externalized drawstrings

The Cloudburst is a 3L waterproof/breathable jacket with a good waterproof rating (15,000 mm) and an exceptional breathability rating (40,000 gsm/24hr), which I found quite effective when tromping around in the rain. The exterior and interior fabric have considerable built-in stretch and a soft, brushed feel, unlike the more rigid “shiny” fabrics you find on many hard-shell rain jackets. The interior is seam-taped, and the front water-resistant zipper is backed by a storm flap with a zipper garage at the top. I found the jacket considerably more comfortable and warmer than many rain jackets in cool spring temperatures, much like a lightweight softshell jacket, but with the weather resistance of a hard-shell rain jacket.

Torso Vents and Pockets

The Cloudburst also has hipbelt-compatible zippered vents along the sides of the torso, which are mesh-backed and can double as chest pockets. You can stick your hands in these to keep them warm when it is raining, and they’re also good for releasing excess heat if you’re working hard, so you perspire less.

In addition to the two torso vents/pockets, there are two mesh drop pockets inside and a rear zippered pocket on the outside of the jacket, over the lumbar area. This rear pocket contains a key fob for you and is large enough to hold multiple food bars or a smartphone. Unlike the rear pockets on bike jerseys, this one is zippered yet still accessible, providing value to cyclists or runners, though less so for hikers carrying a backpack. You can also stuff the jacket into this rear pocket for storage, using the key fob to attach the pocket to a climbing harness.

The rear of the jacket is covered in reflective elements. There is also a zippered pocket over the lumbar area.

The Cloudburst hood has an adjustable face opening but is still best used with a billed cap to keep rain off your face or glasses. The hood is controlled by externalized drawstrings located at the neck, a design also used by Montbell on some of their rain jackets, such as the Versalite. This makes them much easier to adjust while you’re on the move, without stopping.

The wrists are covered by stretch cuffs, and there’s an adjustable hem to prevent drafts from below, enhancing warmth retention on cold and wet days.

Fit and Sizing

The Cloudburst Hoodie runs true to size with an athletic cut. It is designed to fit over base layers or lightweight mid-layers, but may feel snug over bulkier clothing. For layering flexibility, sizing up is advisable. I normally wear a large men’s jacket and found the jacket a wee bit too snug around the chest for my liking.

Overall Value

Priced in the mid-range for performance rain jackets ($259), the Showers Pass Cloudburst Hoodie offers excellent value considering its comfort, weather protection, and thoughtful design. If you’re looking for a rain jacket with hipbelt-compatible pockets, effective thermoregulation features like torso vents, and an adjustable hood, it’s definitely worth your consideration. The fact that it’s suitable for multiple outdoor sports, from cycling and running to hiking and backpacking, is another plus.

Disclosure: Showers Pass donated a jacket for review.

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