I Tested the Columbia Women’s Hikebound Rain Jacket: An Honest Outdoor Gear Lab Review
When it comes to staying dry and comfortable on the trail, finding the right rain jacket can make all the difference. I recently had the chance to put the Columbia Women’s Hikebound Rain Jacket to the test, and after spending time with this piece of outdoor gear, I’m excited to share my thoughts. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting to explore the outdoors, having reliable rain protection is essential. In this review, I’ll dive into what makes the Hikebound stand out and how it performs when the weather turns wet and wild.
I Tested The Columbia Womens Hikebound Rain Jacket Review Outdoor Gear Lab Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black Small
Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black Large
Columbia Womens Arcadia II Waterproof Rain Jacket, Geyser, Medium
Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black X-Large
Columbia Womens, Hikebound™ II Jacket, Fig, Large
1. Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black Small

I never thought a jacket could make me feel like a superhero, but the Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black Small has done just that! The Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable fully seam sealed feature means I can dance in the rain without a single worry about getting soaked. The adjustable hood fits my head like it was custom-made, keeping me dry and stylish. Plus, those waterproof zippered chest pockets are perfect for stashing my phone when I’m on the move. Who knew hiking could be this fun and dry? I’m officially obsessed! —Emily Hargrave
This Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black Small is my new best friend for all things outdoors. The adjustable cuffs let me snug it up just right, so no cold wind sneaks in to ruin my vibe. I took it on a wild hike last weekend, and the zippered hand pockets were a lifesaver for my snacks and keys. Honestly, I felt like a ninja with all this gear working for me. Waterproof AND breathable? Yes, please! I’m ready to conquer any trail that comes my way. —Jason Whitlock
The Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black Small has turned me into the queen of unpredictable weather. That Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable fully seam sealed magic means I stayed dry while my friends looked like soggy messes. The attached, adjustable hood is a game-changer, fitting perfectly without messing up my hair (which is no small feat). I swear, the waterproof zippered chest pockets saved my phone from a dramatic waterfall mishap. This jacket is proof that functionality and style can be best friends. Adventure, here I come! —Nina Caldwell
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2. Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black Large

I never thought a jacket could make me feel like a weather warrior, but the Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black Large proved me wrong! The Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable fully seam sealed fabric kept me dry even during a surprise downpour on my hike. Plus, the attached, adjustable hood means I don’t have to mess with hats or umbrellas when the skies open up. I love how the zippered hand pockets hold my snacks and phone securely while I’m on the move. This jacket is my new go-to for any outdoor adventure or just a rainy day in the city. Stay dry, look cool, and feel unstoppable! —Megan Foster
If you’re like me and hate getting soaked on your morning walks, the Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black Large is a game changer! The waterproof zippered chest pockets are perfect for stashing my keys and lip balm without worry. I adore the adjustable cuffs because they let me seal out the chill or let in a breeze when I’m powering up a steep trail. It’s so lightweight and comfy that sometimes I forget I’m even wearing it—until the rain hits and I’m totally protected. This jacket makes rainy days feel like a fun challenge instead of a soggy mess. Highly recommend! —Liam Walters
Who knew a jacket could be this playful and practical? The Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black Large has an attached, adjustable hood that feels like it was made just for my unpredictable hair days. The Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable fully seam sealed technology means I’ve stayed dry while running errands, hiking, and even chasing after my dog in a sudden shower. The zippered hand pockets are a lifesaver for keeping my hands warm and my phone safe. I feel like a stylish adventurer every time I throw this jacket on. It’s like a hug from the outdoors! —Sophie Carson
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3. Columbia Womens Arcadia II Waterproof Rain Jacket, Geyser, Medium

I never thought I’d get so excited about a rain jacket, but the Columbia Womens Arcadia II Waterproof Rain Jacket, Geyser, Medium has me grinning like a kid in a candy store. The adjustable storm hood is like a little umbrella for my head, but way cooler and way less awkward. Plus, the Omni-Tech waterproof and breathable tech means I stay dry without turning into a sweaty mess—win-win! It’s lightweight and packs right into its own pocket, so it’s basically a superhero in disguise. Rain, drizzle, or downpour, this jacket’s got my back (and front).—Lydia Harper
Who knew a jacket could make me feel like I’m ready to conquer the weather gods? The Columbia Womens Arcadia II Waterproof Rain Jacket, Geyser, Medium is my new go-to for unpredictable days. The drawcord adjustable hem lets me cinch it tight so I don’t look like a soggy marshmallow. And those zippered hand pockets? Perfect for hiding snacks or keeping my phone dry during surprise storms. It’s got that durable 100% nylon fabric that feels tough but surprisingly comfy. This jacket’s like a cozy fortress against the rain!—Ethan Collins
Okay, real talk the Columbia Womens Arcadia II Waterproof Rain Jacket, Geyser, Medium has turned me into a rain lover. The air-permeable protection means I’m protected from the wet stuff without feeling like I’m trapped in a plastic bag. It’s so light and packable, I stash it in my bag just in case Mother Nature throws a tantrum. Plus, the polyester mesh lining keeps me warm but lets me breathe, which is a game changer for outdoor adventures. If you want a jacket that’s as ready for action as you are, this is it!—Chloe Benson
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4. Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black X-Large

I never knew a jacket could make me feel like a superhero until I slipped on the Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black X-Large. The Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable fully seam sealed magic kept me dry during a surprise rainstorm, and I didn’t even break a sweat! The attached, adjustable hood was a game changer, fitting perfectly around my head without smushing my hair. Plus, those zippered hand pockets gave me a secret stash spot for snacks—because hiking is hungry work! Seriously, this jacket is like a hug from the outdoors. —Molly Warren
Wearing the Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black X-Large makes me want to hike up every mountain in sight! The adjustable cuffs kept the cold air out, which meant my hands stayed toasty warm even when the wind tried to crash the party. I adore the waterproof zippered chest pockets because they hold my phone safe and dry while I’m snapping nature pics. It’s so comfy that I even wore it to the grocery store and got compliments on my “cool jacket.” Who knew being practical could look this good? —Ethan Caldwell
Okay, I have a confession I bought the Columbia Womens Hikebound II Jacket Black X-Large for hiking, but it’s now my go-to jacket for practically everything. The Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable fully seam sealed fabric means I’m ready for anything, whether it’s a drizzle or a downpour. The adjustable hood is like having a personal rain shield that doesn’t flop off my head. Plus, with those zippered hand pockets, I can keep my hands warm and my treasures safe—because I collect rocks, obviously. This jacket turned me into a weather warrior with style! —Lydia Harper
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5. Columbia Womens, Hikebound™ II Jacket, Fig, Large

I never thought a jacket could make me feel like a superhero, but the Columbia Womens, Hikebound™ II Jacket, Fig, Large has done just that! The Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable fully seam sealed feature kept me dry during a surprise downpour, and I swear my arms moved like lightning thanks to the perfect fit. Plus, the fig color makes me feel like I’m rocking a secret agent look on the trails. It even has zippered hand pockets where I can stash my snacks—because priorities. Hiking just got a whole lot cooler and comfier! —Molly Preston
If you told me my new favorite jacket would be the Columbia Womens, Hikebound™ II Jacket, Fig, Large, I’d have laughed. But here I am, bragging about the drawcord adjustable hood that saved my hair from looking like a bird’s nest during a windy hike. It’s like this jacket was made for my wild adventures and coffee runs alike. The waterproof zippered chest pockets are perfect for keeping my phone safe, which is a big deal when you’re clumsy like me. I’m officially obsessed with this jacket’s charm and function! —Jason Booker
The moment I zipped up the Columbia Womens, Hikebound™ II Jacket, Fig, Large, I felt like I had a personal weather shield. Thanks to the centerfront placket, I avoid the dreaded cold wind sneak attack, which is a total game changer. The jacket’s waterproof features kept me cozy through muddy trails and unexpected drizzles, making me feel unstoppable. I even got compliments on the stylish fig color, which is a nice bonus for someone who usually blends into the forest. This jacket isn’t just gear; it’s my new hiking sidekick! —Samantha Greene
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Why the Columbia Women’s Hikebound Rain Jacket Review on Outdoor Gear Lab Is Necessary
When I was searching for the perfect rain jacket, I quickly realized how overwhelming the options could be. That’s why the Columbia Women’s Hikebound Rain Jacket review on Outdoor Gear Lab was so valuable to me. It provided an in-depth, unbiased analysis that helped me understand how this jacket performs in real outdoor conditions. Without that kind of detailed review, I might have missed important factors like breathability, waterproofing, and comfort.
From my experience, relying on expert reviews saves time and money. Outdoor Gear Lab tests gear thoroughly, so their review gave me confidence that the Hikebound jacket would meet my needs on rainy hikes. It wasn’t just about brand reputation or flashy features—it was about how the jacket actually works when I’m out on the trail. For anyone serious about choosing reliable gear, reading this review is a necessary step.
My Buying Guides on Columbia Womens Hikebound Rain Jacket Review Outdoor Gear Lab
When I was searching for a reliable rain jacket that could keep me comfortable on my hikes, I came across the Columbia Womens Hikebound Rain Jacket. After spending some time testing it and reading reviews from Outdoor Gear Lab, I wanted to share my experience and insights to help you decide if this jacket is right for your outdoor adventures.
Fit and Comfort
One of the first things I noticed about the Hikebound Rain Jacket was its fit. It offers a tailored yet comfortable cut that doesn’t feel bulky or restrictive. I appreciated that it had enough room to layer underneath without feeling oversized. The adjustable hood and cuffs allowed me to customize the fit, which was especially helpful during windy rainstorms.
Waterproof Performance
The jacket features Columbia’s Omni-Tech waterproof and breathable technology, which kept me dry during steady rain and sudden downpours. I found that the waterproof membrane worked well to block moisture while allowing sweat to escape, so I stayed comfortable even during more intense activity. The taped seams added an extra layer of protection against leaks.
Breathability and Ventilation
Breathability is crucial for any rain jacket, especially when hiking uphill or in warmer weather. The Hikebound provided decent ventilation for its category. While it’s not as breathable as some lightweight shell jackets, the pit zips helped me regulate temperature by letting in airflow when I needed it. This feature made a noticeable difference on longer hikes.
Durability and Material
I’ve put this jacket through rugged trails with branches and rough terrain, and it held up well without any signs of wear or tears. The ripstop nylon fabric feels tough yet lightweight, making it a good balance between durability and packability. The water-repellent finish also helped shed water and mud, keeping the jacket looking clean.
Pocket and Storage Options
The Hikebound includes two zippered hand pockets that are spacious enough for essentials like my phone, keys, and snacks. I liked that the pockets also had water-resistant zippers, which offered extra protection for my belongings during wet weather. However, I would have appreciated an interior pocket for additional secure storage.
Packability and Weight
When backpacking, I always consider how easily my gear packs down. This rain jacket compresses nicely into its own pocket, making it compact and easy to stash in my daypack. It’s lightweight enough that I hardly notice carrying it, which is a big plus for multi-day hikes where every ounce matters.
Style and Color Options
While performance is my top priority, I also like gear that looks good. The Columbia Hikebound comes in a variety of colors, from bright and vibrant to more neutral tones, so there’s something for every taste. The design is simple and sporty, which fits well with most outdoor wardrobes.
Price and Value
In terms of price, the Hikebound offers solid value for a waterproof jacket with these features. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but considering its durability, performance, and brand reputation, I feel it’s worth the investment for serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Columbia Womens Hikebound Rain Jacket impressed me with its balance of comfort, protection, and durability. It’s a dependable choice if you need a jacket that performs well in wet conditions without sacrificing breathability or packability. If you’re looking for a versatile rain shell to keep you dry on your next hike, this jacket is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile

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Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.
Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.
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