REI's 'Lightweight and Breathable' Rain Jacket That's 'Reliably' Waterproof Is 50% Off Right Now

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Whether you’re hiking up a mountain or just trying to get to work, a rain jacket is an essential gear item. Premium models from brands like Patagonia , Arc’teryx , and Fjallraven offer great protection, they’re pricey, which is why we were stoked to find REI’s Flash Air Jacket—a model that promises top-tier performance for a fraction of what its biggest competitors charge—marked down by half on the site.

The REI Co-op Flash Air Jacket is on sale at REI for $134, a 50% discount on its usual retail price of $269. This durable waterproof layer offers excellent weather resistance for outdoor activities and day-to-day wear, and reviewers say it’s “reliably rainproof” while also being “lightweight and breathable.” It’s available in sizes small to 3XL and comes in two colorways, Black and Shadow Bay, both of which are on sale.

REI Co-op Flash Air Jacket in Black, $134 (was $269) at REI

This gritty rain jacket nails the balance of durability, protection, and breathability. It features a three-layer (often abbreviated 3L) waterproof construction, where the waterproof membrane is sandwiched between the inner and outer layers of fabric. This design protects the delicate waterproofing from scrapes, boosting the jacket’s durability and overall performance. It’s also fully seam sealed, so water won’t leak in at the stitches, and an exterior DWR treatment causes rain and snow to bead up and roll off. It’s also highly breathable thanks to large zippered armpit vents, which you can unzip to dump heat when necessary. Finally, the adjustable hood, Velcro cuffs, and cinchable hem help you get a snug fit to block out wind and rain.

Reviewers have been impressed with the Flash Air’s performance in both demanding outdoor settings and everyday use. One shopper wore it while hiking up Lassen Peak in Northern California, and he said it “worked great for an after-work hike up Lassen as a little storm was coming in.” Another shopper called it “a superb jacket for hiking” and noted that it was “lightweight” and “comfortable” when they wore it.

Related: Patagonia's Top-Rated Sun Hoodie That 'Keeps You Cool' in the Summer Heat Is Just $41 Right Now and Selling Fast

Another reviewer put their Flash Air to the test during a 10-day trip to Costa Rica, and it performed flawlessly. “It is a lightweight and breathable jacket that effectively sheds off that heavy rainfall while allowing you to ventilate in the armpit areas,” they said.

One shopper even compared it directly to models from Arc’teryx and Patagonia they had previously worn and found the Flash Air had a superior fit. “It fits perfectly while leaving room for a fleece liner,” they said. They also pointed out that its 3L construction made it “more durable” than a comparable jacket from Outdoor Research.

When storm clouds gather, you’ll be glad to have the REI Co-op Flash Air Jacket in your closet. And at just $134, you can grab one and still have cash left over for other essentials, like hiking boots or a pocket knife . Just make sure to swoop in fast, because this is almost guaranteed to sell out.