Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Rain Jackets

Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0 vs REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
The short answer

Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.9 vs 3.8). Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0 is best for: Serious skiers who prioritize weather protection over minimal weight. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Rain Jackets
Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0
1 source$225as of Oct 11

The Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0 delivers exceptional breathability through its LIFA INFINITY membrane, which hikingdaily found prevents sweating even with pit zips closed, while outdoorsmagic confirmed it remains fully waterproof and windproof in heavy rain. The jacket features a helmet-compatible hood with four drawcords for secure adjustment and high-placed pockets that remain accessible under climbing harnesses or backpack hipbelts. However, at 17.64 ounces, the shell is heavier than many ultralight alternatives, and its one-way pit zips limit fine-tuned ventilation control compared to two-way designs. This durable, professional-grade jacket suits serious skiers and mountaineers who prioritize weather protection over minimal weight, while budget-conscious buyers or those seeking lighter gear for mild conditions should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — LIFA INFINITY membrane provides exceptional breathability, with reviewers noting it prevents sweating even when pit zips are closed.
  • — Fully waterproof and windproof construction using Helly Tech Professional three-layer fabric keeps wearers dry in heavy rain and snow.
  • — Large hand pockets feature two-way sliders and sit high enough to remain accessible while wearing a backpack or climbing harness.
Watch-outs
  • — At approximately 17.64 oz (500 g), the jacket is heavier than many ultralight alternatives.
  • — The pit zips are one-way only, limiting fine-tuned ventilation control compared to two-way designs.
REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket
Ranked #7 in Best Rain Jackets
REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket
4 sources

Better Trail found that while the REI Co-op Rainier offers reliable protection against light rain and steady drizzle, its 2.5-layer construction wets out during heavy or sustained rainfall. The jacket suffers from limited breathability, causing clamminess against bare skin due to a plasticky interior coating that reviewers advise avoiding by wearing a base layer. SectionHiker praised the pit zips for mitigating heat buildup but noted the hood lacks precise shaping and can flap loudly in high winds without a tight fit. This budget-friendly shell is ideal for urban commutes or short hikes where weight savings are not critical, but it is unsuitable for intense aerobic output or extended exposure to wet conditions.

Strengths
  • — Includes pit zips to help vent heat during active use.
  • — Stuffs compactly into one of the zippered hand pockets for easy packing.
  • — Features an adjustable hood with side neck toggles and rear cinch.
Watch-outs
  • — The 2.5-layer interior coating feels plasticky and can become clammy against bare skin.
  • — Limited breathability makes it unsuitable for high-output activities in warm weather.
  • — Fabric tends to wet out during heavy or sustained rainfall rather than light drizzle.

How they stack up

Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0

The Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0 excels in breathability with its LIFA INFINITY membrane, preventing sweating even when pit zips are closed, a feature the Patagonia Boulder Fork lacks entirely due to having no ventilation zips. However, it is heavier at 17.64 oz than the Arc'teryx Beta SL (12 oz) and uses one-way pit zips, which offer less fine-tuned control than the two-way zips on the Arc'teryx model.

REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket

It includes pit zips for ventilation, unlike the Patagonia Boulder Fork, but suffers from limited breathability and a plasticky interior coating compared to the more premium materials in the Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0.

Specs side-by-side

SpecHelly Hansen Verglas Infinity Shell Jacket 2.0REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket
Material100% Polyester (Recycled)Ripstop nylon with non-PFC DWR
Weight17.64 oz / 500 g11.3 oz (men's medium)
VentilationYes (One-way)—
Fabric Layers—2.5-layer HydroWall
← See the full ranking of best rain jackets