Only 8.5 oz for a near-fully featured Gore-Tex Rain Jacket

With the Mountain Hardwear Minimizer Jacket, you’re getting the most reliable waterproof membrane in an unusually lightweight, 8.5 oz package. We rarely see Gore-Tex jackets come in under 12 oz.

Features

In order to achieve such a low weight, they have used a 2-layer construction, which is perhaps the biggest downside to the Minimizer. 2L is categorically less comfortable and less durable than 3L.

But the use of Paclite Plus compensates for this somewhat. According to Gore-Tex HQ, the “Plus” refers to an abrasion resistant treatment on the inner surface, which acts as a pseudo third layer. Sounds a lot like 2.5L to us…

Aside from the point of interest on membranes, this is a no bells-and-whistles design. The face fabric is thin, only 13D, which we approve of. There is a chest pocket, two hand pockets, and typical hem/cuff/hood adjustability.

This is a new for 2023 model, and we look forward to testing it this spring to see how it holds up in the mountains. But at 8.5 ounces, it is a very tempting and statistically noteworthy design and we hope you join us in testing it out.

Mountain Hardwear Minimizer Jacket Key Stats

• Weight: 8.5 oz
• Price: $320
• Fabric: 13D Nylon, 2L Gore-Tex Paclite® Plus
• Pros: Lightweight. Gore-Tex. New for 2023!
• Cons: No Pit Zips. 2-layer. Expensive.

Compare to more great options in our guide to the best lightweight rain jackets

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