Your Budget-Friendly Shield Against the Elements
This rain suit is perfect for those who need a lightweight, packable backup for light rain and unexpected downpours. While it keeps you remarkably dry for the price, the material is thin and not meant for bushwhacking or heavy-duty labor.
What We Liked 👍
- Incredibly lightweight and easy to pack
- Excellent value for the price point
- Provides solid protection in light rain
- Breathable material keeps you comfortable
- Fits easily over your existing gear
What Could Be Better 👎
- Material is prone to tearing easily
- Pants seams can split with movement
- Not suitable for rough, rugged terrain
- Feels more like paper than fabric
When the Clouds Open Up
Listen, I have spent plenty of time huddled under a tarp while the sky decides to unload a monsoon, so I know the value of staying dry. The
Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 isn't trying to win a fashion show, and it certainly won't replace a high-end technical shell. But when you are caught out in a nor'easter and just need to get back to the trailhead, this non-woven polypropylene suit is the unsung hero of your backpack.
Buyers keep pointing out that while it feels a bit like you are wearing a very protective piece of paper, it actually works. It is one of those pieces of kit that you shove into the bottom of your bag and forget about until the sky turns dark and the rain starts lashing down. It is light, it is cheap, and it does exactly what it says on the tin.
What Lies Under the Hood
This suit is all about simple, functional design. You get a jacket with an adjustable hood and elastic cuffs to keep the water from running up your sleeves, plus a pair of basic pants. The whole set stuffs down into its own little bag, which is great for those of us who obsess over pack weight. It is not going to win any awards for mountain-grade durability, but for keeping the moisture off your base layers, it is a solid performer.
The secret is the bi-laminate technology which is surprisingly breathable. You won't feel like you are wrapped in a plastic grocery bag, which is a major win during a humid trek. Just remember that it is designed for light use, so keep it away from sharp brambles and jagged rocks if you want it to survive more than one trip.
The Final Trek Verdict
If you are an occasional hiker or someone who needs a 'just in case' emergency suit for your car or office, this is a no-brainer. It is an affordable insurance policy against getting soaked. However, if you are planning to spend your days crawling through thick brush or tackling rugged, high-alpine environments, keep walking and look for something with a tougher weave because this gear will likely rip under that kind of stress.
