Zpacks Vertice Review (2026)

Name: Zpacks Vertice
Brand: Zpacks
Price: 299.00 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 8.9 (1 reviews)

Zpacks extends its ultralight ethos from tents and packs into the Vertice rain jacket, using a lightweight waterproof-breathable fabric and minimal design to hit 6.7oz while retaining full-length pit zips, a real convenience most ultralight competitors skip to save weight. For thru-hikers already trusting Zpacks for other gear, it's a natural fit.

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$299 retail

8.9

/10

TrailCraft Score

What Works

6.7oz with full-length pit zips retained, unusual at this weight
Made in USA with Zpacks' typically strong build quality
Trusted by many thru-hikers already using other Zpacks gear
Genuinely waterproof, not just water-resistant

Limitations

$299 is a premium price for a minimalist jacket
Lightweight fabric demands careful handling to avoid punctures or tears
Minimal feature set beyond core waterproofing and pit zips
Limited color options compared to mainstream brands

Specifications

Weight6.7 oz / 190 g

Waterproof Rating~15,000-20,000mm

BreathabilityModerate to good

MaterialUltralight waterproof-breathable nylon

Pit ZipsYes, full-length

Pockets1-2

HoodAdjustable

Packed Size5 x 3 inches

WarrantyLimited 1-year

Score Breakdown

Waterproofing

9.1

Breathability

9.0

Weight

8.8

Durability

8.8

Value for Money

6.7

What Sets It Apart

For thru-hikers already trusting Zpacks for other gear, it's a natural fit.

6.7oz, $299 — Zpacks applies its ultralight tent and pack expertise to rain protection

Who This Is For

The Zpacks Vertice is right for hikers whose priorities match its design: built around ultralight dcf-adjacent rain jacket, at $299.

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

Why does the Vertice keep pit zips when other ultralight jackets skip them?

Zpacks prioritized retaining this functional venting feature despite the weight cost, reflecting feedback from thru-hikers who value active-use breathability even in an ultralight jacket.

Is Zpacks only known for tents and packs?

Originally, yes, but they've expanded into ultralight apparel including the Vertice, applying similar fabric and construction philosophy to rain gear.

How does the Vertice compare to the Enlightened Equipment Visp?

Both are ultralight cottage options; the Vertice is a bit heavier but retains pit zips, while the Visp is lighter with a more minimal feature set.