XTM Takayna Rain Jacket Review | The Ultimate Everyday Companion
Finding a reliable rain jacket that will keep you cosy and dry throughout your adventures can be a struggle. But to find one that’s also affordable and will stand the test of time is damn near impossible. That’s why I want to shout from the rooftops about the epic XTM Takayna Rain Jacket!
XTM Performance is an Australian brand that specialises in snow and outdoor gear. They are sustainably focused and have been carbon neutral since 2008 and B-Corp Certified since 2024. XTM has successfully bridged the gap between superior quality and affordability, which is superbly showcased in the Takayna Rain Jacket.
But that’s not even the best part…
All profits from the sale of the XTM Takayna Rain Jacket will go directly to the Save The Tarkine Foundation. This foundation is actively campaigning towards securing permanent protection for the ancient and vital rainforests in Tasmania’s northwest.
In this review of the XTM Takayna Rain Jacket – the predecessor of our much loved Tarkine Rain Jacket, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each component and my honest opinion regarding every aspect of the jacket – after over 3 years of heavy use on their previous jacket and a year of heavy use on this new and improved version.
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My Honest Review Of The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket
Quick Info
Price: $220 AUD ($190 AUD Sale)
Material: 100% recycled 2.5-layer polyester ripstop shell with PFC-Free DWR finish
Waterproofing/Breathability: 20K / 20K
Weight: 292g
Vents: Pit zips
Pockets: Two waist pockets
Colours: Brick, slate blue, granite
Sustainability: 100% recycled shell, PFC-Free DWR, All proceeds go to saving the Takayna, Carbon Neutral Company, B-Corp Certified
Warranty/Return: Refund Policy
Activity: Hiking / Everyday
Positives
- Very affordable compared to similar jackets from other mainstream brands
- Lightweight and breathable
- Very comfortable and flexible for all-day use with a heavy backpack
- Highly durable
- Sustainably made
Negatives
- Pit zips start below the armpit and don’t offer as much ventilation as the previous model
- No chest pocket or internal chest zip pocket
- The hood could be a little bigger to accommodate a helmet
The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket is a lightweight 2.5-layer shell with a PFC-free DWR coating. The waterproof membrane has a 20K rating with 20K breathability, allowing for a reliable rain jacket for active pursuits.
Being an adventure photographer and spending much of my time in the mountains, I needed a versatile jacket that could withstand the elements and abuse I would no doubt put it through.
From the moment I donned the XTM Takayna Rain Jacket, I loved it. The relaxed fit allows me to add essential hiking layers underneath, yet it doesn’t feel overly loose or baggy on its own. Plus, the brick colour of this jacket is simply amazing to add a pop of vibrance to landscape photography.
I would highly recommend the XTM Takayna Rain Jacket to anyone who is looking for a durable, lightweight and affordable rain jacket to accompany them on any adventure.
Who Is The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket For?
If you’re searching for an all-in-one rain jacket that performs exceptionally in a range of circumstances, from staying breathable on your push for the summit to keeping you dry in a sudden downpour, then the XTM Takayna Rain Jacket is the one for you.
Not to mention, the price point for this jacket is unmatched. It stacks up against competition such as The North Face Dryzzle, yet will cost you less than half the price.
That said, it’s a tall order to ask for absolutely everything in one jacket. If warmth in frigid winter temperatures is high on your priority list, then it will be best to search for a warmer and more technical jacket – such as the Mont Mountain Pro Alpine Rain Jacket.
Size and Fit
The fit of the Men’s XTM Takayna Rain Jacket is relaxed, allowing plenty of room for layering underneath. The length of the back is 80 cm for a men’s medium, which covers your butt for extra protection.
I am able to comfortably fit a base layer, fleece and down jacket under my Takayna Shell on freezing alpine pursuits. But on the flip side, I’m also able to wear the Takayna Jacket as a single outer layer over my hiking shirt without the jacket feeling loose or baggy.
The women’s XTM Takayna Rain Jacket, however, takes on a slightly more fitted style and as a result, Candace had to purchase one size up in order to layer on our hiking trips. This is appealing for everyday casual wear, but not as practical for outdoor expeditions. Furthermore, the length is 10 cm shorter for the women’s jacket.
Weight
The weight of the men’s medium Takayna Rain Jacket is 378 g and the women’s size 12 is 330 g, making it one of the lightest options on our list of the best rain jackets in Australia.
Being such a lightweight rain jacket is highly beneficial for summer hikes and high-intensity activities. Plus, throwing it in your daypack, or adding it to your backpacking pack has a minimal effect on the overall weight.
But, as you may have guessed, this also means that the Takayna Rain Jacket may not be your first choice for mid-winter hikes in the snow. The lightweight design does lower its warmth and protection against strong, freezing winds.
However, as I tend to sweat even in the coldest temperatures, the Takayna Rain Jacket keeps my temperature regulated throughout winter and summer in Australia.
Packability Of The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket
Due to its lightweight design, the Takayna Rain Jacket packs down small, creating more room in your pack for snacks! Furthermore, it can be stuffed into its front pocket for the ultimate compact size – which has a two-way zipper so you can stow it easily.
However, I generally just roll the jacket into its hood as it can be less time-consuming and I am rarely in need of the extra space in my backpack.
Is The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket Comfortable?
As I mentioned above, the relaxed fit of the XTM Takayna Shell is the perfect design to comfortably layer when you find yourself hiking in bad weather – without feeling too loose over a t-shirt.
Even when I do wear my jacket over a t-shirt only, I’ve never felt any uncomfortable rubbing from the seams or a sticky feeling from the inner layer. The outer seams on the shoulders and around the armpits are minimalistic, which prevents any irritation even when I’m carrying my fully loaded Osprey Aether Hiking Pack.
In addition, you’ll find articulated elbows on the XTM Takayna Rain Jacket which allow for full range of movement without feeling restricted.
Breathability
The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket excels in breathability. The lightweight design and three-quarter pit zips allow for medium to high-intensity activities with minimal overheating. Of course, if it’s a hot summer day I’ll end up sweating like crazy – but I would like to see a rain jacket that doesn’t have this effect.
In my experience, I’ve found that my Takayna Rain Jacket keeps my temperature regulated better than a fleece jacket if an extra layer is needed on my hikes. I generally get too hot in a fleece – no matter the weather – but the Takayna Shell works perfectly for me as a barrier against the cold.
XTM Takayna Waterproofing
With a waterproof rating of 20K, the XTM Takayna Rain Jacket competes against some of the top technologies such as Pertex Shield. Even after over 3 years of heavy use of the previous model, I continued to stay cosy and dry throughout every expedition – and I fully expect the same results from this new and improved model.
That said, the DWR coating began to wear away on my previous Tarkine jacket after 3 years – as you would expect after so much use. I never re-applied the DWR but even so, I still stay dry underneath.
How Durable Is The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket?
Being such a lightweight jacket, I was sceptical about its durability in the beginning. But from my experience, the 2.5-layer polyester Ripstop shell has held its own throughout some of Tasmania’s harshest terrain.
I owned and used the XTM Tarkine Jacket for over 3 years, taking it along on all of my favourite hiking adventures throughout Tasmania and New Zealand. But even after pushing through the dense forests of Frenchmans Cap or dragging across the jagged ridgelines of the Western Arthurs Traverse, the jacket barely holds a scratch to show for it.
The new Takayna model feels more durable and has shown no signs of wear whatsoever – even after finding our own route up the dense foothills below Mt Maitland in New Zealand on an off-track mission.
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Features Of The XTM Takayna Waterproof Jacket
The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket comes equipped with almost all of the necessary features you’d expect to find on a premium technical rain jacket.
Hood
The large hood is fitted with a semi-hard peak which holds its shape well – even in extreme conditions or when the hood is tightened firmly. The adjustment is made easy by the two cinch tags found at your collarbone and another at the back of your head.
The hood is quite roomy, allowing for plenty of movement with a beanie underneath and the jacket zipped up completely. It does fit a helmet underneath, but movement becomes restricted and uncomfortable.
Pockets
You’ll find two hip pockets on the Takayna Shell, which feature a large storm flap to keep your items dry in moderate rainfall. However, the zips aren’t waterproof and I have noticed a slight amount of water seep through in heavy downpours.
The location of the pockets is very convenient and comfortable when hiking without a pack. But they are too low to use while wearing a backpack or a harness.
Unfortunately, the jacket is missing a zippered chest pocket. I find that this pocket is invaluable while hiking with a backpack so you can keep your phone handy or a small snack.
Vents
The Takayna is fitted with 3/4 length pit zips to allow for extra breathability when pushing up hard ascents or hiking in humid conditions. They are highly effective at adding another level of ventilation to an already exceptionally breathable jacket.
The location of the pit zips is easy to access, even with a large hiking backpack on. However, they begin beneath the armpit which lowers their performance in my opinion.
Hem Adjustment
For when the weather turns especially nasty, the hem adjustment has plenty of range to get a snug and tight seal around your hips. The hem adjustment is made easy to use with a simple cinch system on both sides that locks strongly in place, keeping you protected in strong winds and swirling rain.
Sustainability
The new and improved Takayna Rain Jacket is constructed with 100% recycled polyester ripstop and a PFC-Free DWR coating.
On top of that, XTM Performance as a whole is one of the best sustainable outdoor brands in the business.
They are 100% Australian-owned and operated and have been carbon neutral since 2008. They do their best to use only compostable, biodegradable or recycled packaging and became B-corp certified in 2024.
Value
The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket features most of the major components needed in a technical rain jacket and has proven its durability time and time again. For this level of rain jacket, you’d expect to pay upward of $250! But the Takayna jacket comes in at an unbeatable $220 – though you can often find it on sale for $190.
You will struggle to find another rain jacket at this price point that performs even half as well – especially one that can last years without showing any major signs of wear. I believe XTM has finally been able to combine quality and affordability into one absolutely beautiful orange package!
My Experience With The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket
Why I Chose The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket
I received the XTM Takayna Rain Jacket as part of a photography partnership with the company. It quickly replaced the rain jacket I previously wore and I’ve continuously worn it for the last 3 years.
When the new Takayna Rain Jacket came out, I upgraded my old and well-loved jacket (which I now use for mountain biking) for the new version.
Note: XTM Performance didn’t ask us to write this review and have no input in the article. We are writing this review of our own choice as we truly believe this is a fantastic rain jacket.
While I didn’t technically choose this jacket for myself, it ticks all the boxes for what I need most. It’s an affordable, lightweight rain jacket with high breathability – which is paramount for me as I sweat up a storm while hiking.
In addition, the colour is exactly what I would have chosen for myself to bring a bit of vibrance to my photography.
How It Performs
The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket exceeded my expectations in every aspect of its performance – so much so that it’s the only jacket I use year-round on my Australian and overseas adventures.
The Takayna Shell keeps me sufficiently dry in heavy downpours, while being lightweight and breathable enough that I don’t sweat in most hiking conditions. Even after considerable use over the last 3 years, there was little to no wear on the Tarkine other than the diminishing DWR coating. I fully expect the same results for the new and improved Takayna Jacket.
Where Do I Wear My XTM Takayna Rain Jacket?
I practically live in the mountains, with adventures back to back. These adventures commonly take me to remote and rugged places, where I need a durable, versatile and lightweight rain jacket that I can rely on time and time again.
When I’m travelling overseas, this is the jacket I choose to be at my side. My adventures have taken me from the mountainous regions of New Zealand, to the wet and humid climate of Bali and to the high mountains of the Himalayas.
The previous jacket performed exceptionally in all these places and the new version has kept up with my mountaineering pursuits in New Zealand this year – even though that isn’t even its intended use!
Final Thoughts
The XTM Takayna Rain Jacket is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for an affordable rain jacket that stacks up against the top competitors. It has been a constantly reliable companion that I never leave the house without.
It’s breathability and lightweight design is a fantastic choice for the Australian climate. However, if you tend to feel the cold more than the average hiker I’d suggest choosing a thicker rain jacket with better windproofing.
All-in-all, I can confidently recommend the XTM Takayna Rain Jacket to anyone looking for a versatile jacket to accompany them on their adventures.
Happy Adventuring 🙂
