Columbia Rebel Roamer II / Storm Surge Rain Pants Review

Bottom Line

Want a simple, no-frills rain pant that delivers dependable performance at a budget price? That’s the Columbia Rebel Roamer II (men’s) and Storm Surge (women’s).

These pants excel in keeping you dry with their durable Omni-Tech™ fabric, providing solid waterproofing and wind resistance for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Unlike pricier options, the Rebel Roamer II keeps things straightforward. There are no zippers for ventilation or pockets for storage, but the elastic waistband and adjustable drawcord ensure a snug, customizable fit. The fabric is lightweight and comfortable, making these pants easy to wear for long hikes or unexpected rainstorms.

The trade-off for the minimal design is versatility—the Rebel Roamer II isn’t ideal for technical terrain or heavy-duty bushwhacking. However, they shine for casual hikers or those looking for an affordable backup rain pants. For the price, these pants are a solid option in our guide to the best rain pants to keep in your kit for staying dry on wet adventures.

How We Tested

From lab sprays, spritzes, and hose-downs to mother nature’s equivalents in fall and winter hiking in the Colorado Rockies, we tested the limits of these rain pants. We also tested their durability, worked up a sweat to see how they vented internal moisture, and… well, stretched our legs to see how they felt (and sounded). The swish factor is a real bummer with rain pants. Don’t worry; we took note.

Comfort & Mobility

When it comes to comfort and mobility, the Columbia Rebel Roamer II pants keep things simple but effective. These pants are lightweight and roomy, making them easy to pull on over hiking gear.

The elastic waistband with an adjustable drawcord ensures a secure yet comfortable fit, and the relaxed cut allows for plenty of movement whether climbing, hiking, or crouching to set up camp.

While the lack of features like articulated knees or stretch fabric might be noticeable for more technical activities, the pants perform well for casual outdoor use. They’re comfortable enough for extended wear, and the lightweight material doesn’t feel restrictive or bulky.

That said, if you’re scrambling over rocks or tackling rugged terrain, you might find the fit slightly less accommodating compared to higher-end options with added mobility features that won’t slow you down.

Weather Resistance

The Columbia Rebel Roamer II pants excel at what they’re designed to do—keeping you dry when the weather turns. Featuring Columbia’s Omni-Tech™ waterproof technology, these pants provide dependable protection against rain and wind.

Fully seam-sealed and made from durable material, the pants do an excellent job of preventing water from seeping through, even in steady rain. The fabric is also wind-resistant, offering an added layer of comfort on blustery days.

While they lack the premium waterproofing of high-end rain pants, they perform admirably for most wet-weather situations, especially considering their budget-friendly price.

One trade-off is that they don’t have features like storm flaps or reinforced panels, which means they might not hold up as well under extended exposure to heavy downpours or rough conditions.

Still, for everyday rain and light to moderate outdoor activities, these pants provide reliable weather resistance at a fraction of the cost of pricier options. If you need affordable rain protection, the Rebel Roamer II pants deliver.

Ventilation

Ventilation is where the Columbia Rebel Roamer II pants take a more basic approach. These rain pants don’t have zippered vents or advanced breathability features, but the lightweight Omni-Tech™ fabric does a decent job of letting some airflow through while keeping rain out. For casual outdoor activities or shorter hikes, they manage to strike a fair balance between waterproofing and comfort.

The lack of thigh or side vents might make these pants feel a bit warmer during intense activity, especially in humid conditions. However, the roomy fit allows for decent air circulation compared to tighter, more technical rain pants. Pairing them with moisture-wicking base layers can also help you stay comfortable if you’re breaking a sweat.

While they won’t win awards for ventilation, the Rebel Roamer II pants offer enough breathability for most casual use. If you’re hiking in cooler, rainy weather, they’ll keep you dry without feeling overly stuffy.

Weight

The Rebel Roamers nail it when it comes to weight. At 12.2 oz. (men’s) and 11.5 oz. (women’s), they are lightweight enough to pack easily into your gear without adding much bulk, making them a convenient choice for day hikes or casual outings. While not ultralight like some premium options, they’re still portable and won’t weigh you down on the trail.

The simplicity of the design contributes to their manageable weight. Without features like zippers or reinforced panels, the pants remain lightweight while still offering reliable rain protection. This makes them a great backup option to keep in your pack for unexpected weather, especially if you’re prioritizing affordability and functionality over high-performance materials.

However, for those looking to minimize every ounce for ultralight backpacking, the Rebel Roamer II pants may feel a little heavier compared to pricier, more technical rain gear. But for most casual outdoor enthusiasts, they hit the sweet spot.

Durability

The Columbia Rebel Roamer II offer decent durability for their price, making them a solid choice for light to moderate outdoor use.

Infused with Columbia’s Omni-Tech™ waterproof fabric, these pants can handle everyday wear and tear, such as walking over slippery trails or through light brush. The fully seam-sealed design adds to their resilience by preventing water from seeping through in rainy conditions.

Downside: The lack of reinforced panels or heavy-duty materials means these pants aren’t built for rugged adventures or harsh environments. Scrambling over rocks, bushwhacking, or extended use in challenging terrain may lead to wear and tear more quickly compared to higher-end rain pants.

Should You Buy the Columbia Rebel Roamer II / Storm Surge Rain Pants?

The Columbia Rebel Roamer II Rain Pants are a great choice for anyone looking for affordable, reliable rain protection for casual outdoor activities. With Omni-Tech™ waterproofing, these pants keep you dry in moderate rain, and the lightweight, packable design makes them easy to carry on hikes or throw in your bag for unexpected weather. The adjustable waistband provides a comfortable, secure fit, and the roomy cut allows for easy layering over other gear.

However, they aren’t built for extreme conditions, rough bushwhacking, or heavy-duty use. They lack features like ventilation zippers or reinforced panels, which could make them less breathable or durable for tougher activities. Overall, if you’re seeking dependable rain protection without the premium price tag, the Rebel Roamer II pants are a solid choice.

What Other Rain Pants Should You Consider?

Still want to shop for a rainy day? Here are some top contenders to the Rebel Roamer/ Storm Surge on our best rain pants gear guide.

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Review: These pants are a bit pricier but come with 3-layer H2No® technology for excellent waterproofing and breathability. They’re durable and ideal for hikers looking for a higher-end option with sustainable materials.

Outdoor Research Foray Review: A premium choice featuring GORE-TEX® fabric, the Foray pants offer top-tier waterproofing and breathability. They’re great for more technical hikes and backcountry adventures, with full-length zippers for ventilation.

REI Co-op Rainier Review: A budget-friendly option that rivals the Rebel Roamer II, the Rainier pants provide reliable waterproofing and breathability for casual hikers. They’re lightweight, packable, and designed for moderate outdoor use without breaking the bank.