Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants Review

Bottom Line

If you’re into shaving every ounce from your gear, the Zpacks Vertice rain pants (men’s / women’s) are hard to beat. Weighing in at 3 ounces for the men’s and 2.5 for the women’s version, they’re the ultimate choice for weight-conscious thru-hikers, backpackers, and day hikers looking for ultra-light protection.

The Vertice pants embrace simplicity. A drawstring waist cord offers basic adjustability, and they pack down to the size of a bar of soap. The wide-leg design enhances ventilation, makes layering a breeze, and simplifies getting them on and off, though you’ll need to remove your shoes to do so.

However, this minimalist approach comes with trade-offs. The baggy fit might not win style points, but function trumps fashion in the backcountry. The lack of zippers, pockets, or additional features keeps the design lightweight, though it also limits convenience. The thin material, while impressively light, isn’t ideal for bushwhacking or rugged terrain, so carrying repair tape is a smart move.

For those committed to ultralight backpacking, the Zpacks Vertice offers a no-frills, functional solution that keeps your load as light as possible. For more of our rain pants reviews and recommendations, see our guide to the best rain pants of the year.

How We Tested

Over a 60-day period, we tested the Vertice pants in damp, misty rains in Colorado’s Indian Peaks Wilderness and during soggy slogs hiking Lake Superior’s south shore.

Comfort & Mobility

The Zpacks Vertice rain pants score well on comfort and mobility, especially for those who value a lightweight, no-frills design. The extra-wide leg fit is a standout feature, allowing for plenty of airflow and easy movement, and when navigating rollercoaster trails or layering the Vertice over bulky hiking pants, the roomy cut doesn’t feel restrictive. Our tester loved the easy on/off in quick-change weather.

That said, the minimalist design has its quirks. The lack of zippers means you’ll need to remove your shoes to put them on, which can be inconvenient in unpredictable weather. The baggy fit, while functional, might not be everyone’s favorite, as it feels and looks a bit loose. 

Comfort-wise, the drawstring waist is simple but effective, offering some adjustability without adding weight. However, the thin material, while light and breathable, doesn’t provide much insulation, so they’re best suited for warmer climates or active use where you generate your own heat.

Weather Resistance

When it comes to weather resistance, the Zpacks Vertice rain pants shine in the ultralight category. The waterproof and breathable material handles rain impressively well, keeping you dry even during steady downpours.

Zpack’s Vertice waterproof and breathable fabric is is constructed with a tricot lining to wick moisture away from your skin, a waterproof, vapor permeable membrane in the middle, and 7 denier ripstop nylon on the exterior that is treated with a durable, effective “C6” water repellent. For minimalist hikers who prioritize staying light and dry, these pants deliver.

One potential downside is durability in harsh conditions. The thin material is excellent for shedding water but can be vulnerable to snags or wear, especially in bushy or rocky terrain. They sustained minor abrasions on a woodsy hike in Colorado’s Indian Peaks Wilderness, but as long as you’re sticking to well-maintained trails or open paths, they’ll perform admirably.

The Vertice rain pants are an excellent choice for ultralight adventurers looking for reliable waterproofing without extra weight. Just be mindful of their limits in rugged environments.

Ventilation

The Vertice rain pants offer decent breathability for their ultralight design, though it’s achieved in a more minimalist way. The wide-leg cut is the primary feature here, allowing air to circulate as you move. This design also makes layering easier, ensuring you stay comfortable even with bulkier hiking pants underneath.

That said, the lack of zippers or dedicated venting features means you have limited control over airflow. While the wide legs help, they don’t quite match the versatility of pants with zippered vents, especially during high-exertion activities or in humid weather.

On the upside, the breathability of the fabric itself adds another layer of comfort, helping to regulate heat and moisture during light to moderate activity.

For ultralight hikers who prefer simplicity and don’t mind sacrificing advanced venting options, the Vertice pants strike a fair balance between breathability and minimal weight.

Weight

The Zpacks Vertice rain pants are a standout pick when it comes to overall weight. At just around three ounces, they’re a great choice for ultralight backpackers or thru-hikers focused on minimizing every ounce in their pack.

This ultra-lightweight design is achieved without compromising too much on performance. While they may not offer the added features of heavier rain pants, like reinforced panels or extra pockets, they deliver solid waterproof protection with minimal bulk.

The trade-off, of course, is that you sacrifice durability and a few creature comforts for that weight savings. If you’re trekking through rugged terrain or expect to be out in wet conditions for days, the Vertice pants might not be the best long-term choice due to their thinner material.

But for those looking to keep their gear as light as possible without carrying excess, the Vertice rain pants are a great fit. They’re compact, easily stowed, and provide reliable weather protection.

Durability

Given their ultralight design, the Zpacks Vertice pants aren’t the toughest option. The 7-denier material provides great waterproofing and breathability, but it’s not as resistant to wear and tear as heavier, more robust rain pants.

These pants are best suited for well-maintained trails and lighter, less abrasive environments. If you’re sticking to smoother paths, you’ll get plenty of use out of them. However, if you’re venturing into rocky, bushwhacking terrain, the material can be more prone to snags and damage.

That said, if you’re primarily concerned with keeping your pack weight to a minimum and don’t mind carrying some repair tape for emergencies, the Vertice pants offer solid durability for their weight class. For the right conditions and careful use, they’ll hold up well, but they’re not designed for extreme or rugged conditions.

Should You Buy the Zpacks Vertice Rain Pants?

The Zpacks Vertice rain pants are designed for ultralight backpackers, thru-hikers, and minimalist adventurers who prioritize weight savings over extra features or durability.

If you’re focused on keeping your pack as light as possible and don’t mind sacrificing rugged durability or extra convenience features like zippers or pockets, these pants are a great choice. They’re perfect for those sticking to well-maintained trails or moderate weather conditions where weight and packability are paramount.

However, these pants aren’t suited for rugged terrain, bushwhacking, or extended use in harsh environments, as the thin material is more prone to wear and tear. Heavy-duty options would offer better long-term value for those requiring more durability or planning to tackle technical terrain.

What Other Rain Pants Should You Consider?

The Zpacks Vertice rain pants are pretty incredible for ultralight gear. Here are some other top lightweight picks from our rain pants gear guide.

REI Trailmade Review: These pants are twice as heavy, but half the cost of the Vertice. Still 7.8 ounces ain’t much. They offer more durability and features like ankle zippers for ventilation and easier on/off, making them great for those who want a balance between weight and functionality.

Marmot Precip Eco Review: These rain pants deliver a good mix of durability, breathability, and weather protection. They’re also ankle zip, making them easier to put on over boots—ideal for those who need quick and easy access in changing weather conditions.

Montbell Versalite Review: For those prioritizing light weight but needing a bit more durability than the Vertice, the Montbell Versalite rain pants offer excellent protection without sacrificing comfort.