Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket Review (2026)

Name: Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket
Brand: Outdoor Research
Price: 169.00 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 8.6 (1 reviews)

Where the Foray II is OR's do-everything rain jacket, the Helium is built specifically to disappear into a pack until you actually need it: 6.4oz, packs into its own pocket, and still delivers genuine Pertex Shield waterproofing. It sacrifices some durability and features versus the heavier Foray II, but as dedicated emergency-ready rain insurance, it's a smart complementary option.

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$169 retail

8.6

/10

TrailCraft Score

What Works

6.4oz and packs into its own pocket for minimal carried bulk
Genuine Pertex Shield waterproofing despite the low weight
Good complementary option alongside a heavier primary shell
Reliable Outdoor Research build quality despite the minimalist design

Limitations

Thinner fabric than the Foray II sacrifices some durability
No pit zips, limiting active-use venting options
Minimal features compared to heavier, more full-featured jackets
Less suited to frequent heavy use than a more robust shell

Specifications

Weight6.4 oz / 181 g

Waterproof RatingPertex Shield, ~10,000-15,000mm

BreathabilityModerate

MaterialUltralight ripstop nylon

Pit ZipsNo

Pockets1, packs into itself

HoodAdjustable, minimal

Packed Size4 x 3 inches

WarrantyLimited lifetime

Score Breakdown

Waterproofing

8.8

Breathability

8.7

Weight

8.5

Durability

8.5

Value for Money

8.1

What Sets It Apart

It sacrifices some durability and features versus the heavier Foray II, but as dedicated emergency-ready rain insurance, it's a smart complementary option.

6.4oz, $169 — a second, lighter option from OR built specifically for minimal emergency packability

Who This Is For

The Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket is right for hikers whose priorities match its design: built around ultralight emergency-ready shell, at $169.

A note on pricing and links: Prices listed are current as of July 2026 and may change. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you buy through them, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It does not change my ranking.

How It Compares

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All options in this category ranked side by side — specs, scores, and pricing.

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Common Questions

Should I buy the Helium or the Foray II?

The Foray II is the better primary do-everything rain jacket with more features and durability; the Helium suits hikers wanting a dedicated ultralight emergency backup or minimalist primary option for fast, light trips.

Does the Helium pack into its own pocket?

Yes — one of its pockets doubles as a stuff sack, making it exceptionally quick to pack away and carry as minimal-bulk insurance.

Is 6.4oz too light to trust in genuinely bad weather?

It provides genuine waterproof protection for its weight class, though for sustained severe weather, a more robust jacket like the Foray II or a 3L shell offers more confidence-inspiring protection.