Ultra-Lite2 Waterproof Rain Suit

Roughly eleven ounces for a waterproof jacket and pants at a budget price is why this set keeps turning up on thru-hiker lists. The non-woven polypropylene genuinely does not wet out, and it breathes better than a cheap coated-nylon shell, so for shoulder-season rain on open trail it is a defensible choice with a low sunk cost. It is also fragile, and that is not a footnote. The fabric tears on brush, on granite, on a pack buckle, and once a tear starts it runs; plan on carrying tape and on replacing the set every season or two. Features are minimal - no pit zips, a soft unstructured hood with no brim, and an elastic-waist pant that sags once wet. There is no meaningful adjustment at hem or cuffs, so wind drives water up the sleeves. Treat it as consumable rain protection, not a shell you keep for years.